Microbial Insights currently offers more than 250 CENSUS® qPCR assays to monitor a broad range of microbial processes. Built and refined over decades of scientific innovation, our assay portfolio is one of the most comprehensive in the industry. Yet science never stands still. When clients identify a critical data gap, we partner with them to develop custom qPCR assays tailored to their specific needs. Whether targeting a site-specific microorganism, one related to an emerging contaminant, or a microbe applicable to an entire industry, our team can help transform unanswered questions into actionable insights.
Together, we can create the next generation of microbial monitoring solutions.
Biomarker Discovery and Assay Development
There are many possible pathways to discover new and relevant biomarkers, including a combination of literature review, controlled laboratory studies, and metagenomic characterization of field samples. Once a biomarker is identified, Microbial Insights recommends using a qPCR assay to reliably detect and quantify the gene of interest in environmental samples, and we can help you make that happen. To learn more about the benefits of targeted qPCR assays compared to qualitative tests like next generation sequencing and whole genome sequencing, please watch our recent webinar, “Science in Action: Targeted Methods for Meaningful Insight.”
Assays for Microplastics
Microbial Insights’ in-house research and development team has extensive experience designing qPCR assays, and we require the highest level of validation before a new assay is offered commercially. Recently, qPCR assays for plastic-degrading microorganisms were developed for a client who uses constructed wetlands and bioreactors to remediate textile waste and microfibers. These assays target functional genes involved in the biodegradation of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and are now available for any client to order.
The Search for PFAS Biomarkers
The search for effective PFAS bioremediation solutions has intensified interest in the microorganisms, enzymes and fungi capable of breaking down these persistent compounds. Microbial Insights is actively involved in many research studies trying to identify new biomarkers. If effective PFAS bioremediation strategies are to be developed, further investigation will be needed to understand the reaction mechanisms involved and determine if complete detoxification of parent compounds is possible. Microbial Insights doesn’t develop any commercial assays until we are sure of the environmental relevance, but we are excited about the current PFAS research and future possibilities for bioremediation. As scientific understanding grows, so does the potential for innovative bioremediation approaches and we will keep a finger on that pulse to ensure assays are developed when environmentally relevant pathways are identified.
Biomarkers for Microbiologically Influenced Corrosion (MIC)
Microbial Insights along with ExxonMobil and DNV are the founding members of a joint industry project created to develop rigorous methods, tools, and workflows to reliably detect MIC in oil field operations. ExxonMobil has developed a unique experimental setup of Automated Pipeline Ecosystem Simulators (APES) to replicate oil field corrosion and enable the discovery of novel MIC biomarkers. The micH and micC qPCR assays included in the QuantArray®-MIC suite were identified using this methodology and have been found to be more strongly correlated to MIC compared to conventional tests like ATP assays. To learn more, register for the live webinar, “Development of Molecular Biomarkers for Monitoring and Mitigation of Microbial Corrosion” presented by Dr. Mohor Chatterjee with ExxonMobil Technology and Engineering Company.
Turn Critical Data Gaps in Actionable Insights
Every breakthrough begins with a question. Whether you’re addressing a site-specific challenge or pioneering solutions for an emerging industry need, Microbial Insights can help you identify the biomarkers that matter most and develop the assays to track them. Partner with us to develop the next generation of microbial monitoring tools. Contact [email protected] or (865) 573-8188 to get started.
