DNA probes for the detection of specific genes in bacteria isolated from the environment

DNA gene probes may become extremely useful in studying gene transfer and adaptation mechanisms in natural bacterial communities, and in the laboratory. This technology allows the detection of specific gene sequence(s) in bacterial species, and can be used to find and monitor recombinant DNA clones in microorganisms being considered for release into the natural environment. It may provide a new generation of highly specific tests that offers advantages over the classical approaches for identifying specific organisms.