title: The quantitative real-time PCR applications in the monitoring of marine harmful algal bloom (HAB) species.
abstract: In the last decade, various molecular methods (e.g., fluorescent hybridization assay, sandwich hybridization assay, automatized biosensor detection, real-time PCR assay) have been developed and implemented for accurate and specific identification and estimation of marine toxic microalgal species. This review focuses on the recent quantitative real-time PCR (qrt-PCR) technology developed for the control and monitoring of the most important taxonomic phytoplankton groups producing biotoxins with relevant negative impact on human health, the marine environment, and related economic activities. The high specificity and sensitivity of the qrt-PCR methods determined by the adequate choice of the genomic target gene, nucleic acid purification protocol, quantification through the standard curve, and type of chemical detection method make them highly efficient and therefore applicable to harmful algal bloom phenomena. Recent development of qrt-PCR-based assays using the target gene of toxins, such as saxitoxin compounds, has allowed more precise quantification of toxigenic species (i.e., Alexandrium catenella) abundance. These studies focus only on toxin-producing species in the marine environment. Therefore, qrt-PCR technology seems to offer the advantages of understanding the ecology of harmful algal bloom species and facilitating the management of their outbreaks.
authors.affiliation: Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino, Viale Trieste 296, Pesaro, Italy, antonella.penna@uniurb.it.
authors.forename: Antonella
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Penna
authors.affiliation: Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino, Viale Trieste 296, Pesaro, Italy, antonella.penna@uniurb.it.
authors.forename: Penna
authors.initials: P
authors.lastname: Antonella
authors.forename: Luca
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: Galluzzi
authors.forename: Galluzzi
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Luca
mesh_terms: D004141:Dinoflagellida / Q000145:classification / Q000235:genetics / Q000254:growth & development / Q000302:isolation & purification; D004784:Environmental Monitoring / Q000379:methods*; D057097:Harmful Algal Bloom; D006801:Humans; D008387:Marine Toxins / Q000032:analysis; D009693:Nucleic Acid Hybridization; D010839:Phytoplankton / Q000145:classification / Q000235:genetics / Q000254:growth & development / Q000302:isolation & purification; D060888:Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction; D012530:Saxitoxin / Q000032:analysis; D012623:Seawater / Q000737:chemistry; D012680:Sensitivity and Specificity; D014876:Water Pollution / Q000032:analysis
chemical_list: D008387:Marine Toxins; D012530:Saxitoxin