PCR amplification of 16S rDNA sequences in Fe-rich sediment of coal refuse drainage

Acid drainage from coal mines or coal refuse, when treated in collection ponds, results in the formation of Fe-rich sediments. The Fe in these sediments inhibits the PCR and hinders identification of bacteria using non-culture 16S rDNA molecular methods. We describe a technique that employs EDTA to dissolve and remove Fe from these sediments, yielding DNA that can be amplified by PCR. The technique allows the identification of bacterial DNA sequences and increases our understanding of the bacterial community in Fe-rich sediments.