Identifier

etd-0626103-112039

Degree

Master of Science (MS)

Department

Environmental Sciences

Document Type

Thesis

Abstract

This study evaluated the PCR inhibition and toxic effects by sediment samples exposed to drilling muds. This information was gathered in an attempt to identify what effect, if any, drilling muds had on the microbial community structure in sediments around four specific oil-drilling platforms in the Gulf of Mexico. Sediment samples were taken before and after drilling had taken place around two platforms (GB516 and VK916), and sediment samples were taken after drilling had taken place around two other platforms (MC292 and GB602). After using traditional, non-selective DNA extraction methods, successful amplification took place via PCR with all pre-drilling samples that were tested. Post-drilling samples, however, failed to amplify using the same procedure. Many experiments were conducted to identify the cause of PCR inhibition in the post-drilling samples. It was clearly demonstrated that an abundance of humic substances was being carried through the extraction procedure and caused the PCR inhibition. The Lumitox assay showed that the toxic effects of exposed sediments ranged from very toxic to non-toxic.

Date

2003

Document Availability at the Time of Submission

Release the entire work immediately for access worldwide.

Committee Chair

Paul LaRock

DOI

10.31390/gradschool_theses.446

Download

Share

COinS