Microbial Insights, Inc. (MI) was established in 1992 as a technology transfer company based on the pioneering phospholipid research of Dr. David C. White, MD, PhD of the University of Tennessee. In 1998, MI became one of the first commercial laboratories to offer DNA based technologies including CENSUS, a molecular biological tool based on quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR), as a cost-effective approach to characterize microbial communities. At sites impacted by chlorinated solvents like tetrachloroethene (PCE) and trichloroethene (TCE) for example, project managers submit samples for CENSUS quantification of Dehalococcoides to directly evaluate the feasibility of monitored natural attenuation, quantify the efficacy of enhanced bioremediation, and assess the need for bioaugmentation. Currently, MI offers over 110 CENSUS assays to evaluate a wide variety of functions ranging from bioremediation of chlorinated solvents (PCE, TCE, DCE, VC, TCA, PCP, and perchlorate) and petroleum hydrocarbons (BTEX, PAHs, and MTBE) to wastewater treatment and biofilm formation. Moreover, MI strives to remain the industry leader for nucleic acid (DNA and RNA) technologies and can develop custom CENSUS assays for site specific microbial processes.

Throughout our history, MI has been dedicated to the development of analyses and advanced sampling tools to facilitate intelligent site design and management decisions in the environmental remediation industry. Moving forward, MI will continue to be on the leading edge of research and development – always exploring innovative technologies and new applications.

Primary Author/Conference Presenter:
Kerry L. Sublette
The University of Tulsa
Tulsa, Oklahoma
USA

Co-Authors:
Dora Taggart, Brett Baldwin, Anita Biernacki, Kate Clark; Microbial Insights, Inc., Knoxville, TN