title: Application of metabolomics to understanding biofilms in water distribution systems: a pilot study.
abstract: Biofilms formed in pipes are known to contribute to waterborne diseases, accelerate corrosion and cause aesthetic taste and odour issues within the potable water supply network. This paper describes a pilot study, undertaken to assess the potential of using metabolomics to monitor bacterial activity in biofilms of an urban water network. Using samples from a water mains flushing programme, it was found that a profile of intracellular and extracellular metabolites associated with microbial activity could be obtained by analysing samples using gas chromatography mass spectrometry. Chemometric analysis of the chromatograms in conjunction with data from the mass spectrometer showed that it is possible to differentiate between biofilms from different pipe materials and planktonic bacteria. This research demonstrates that metabolomics has the potential for investigating biofilms and other microbial activity within water networks, and could provide a means for enhancing monitoring programmes, understanding the source of water quality complaints, and optimising water network management strategies.
authors: Land and Water Division, Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation, Highett, Australia. david.beale@csiro.au
authors: D J
authors: DJ
authors: Beale
authors: R
authors: R
authors: Barratt
authors: D R
authors: DR
authors: Marlow
authors: M S
authors: MS
authors: Dunn
authors: E A
authors: EA
authors: Palombo
authors: P D
authors: PD
authors: Morrison
authors: C
authors: C
authors: Key
mesh_terms: D001419:Bacteria / Q000254:growth & development / Q000302:isolation & purification; D018441:Biofilms; D015169:Colony Count, Microbial; D060766:Drinking Water / Q000737:chemistry / Q000382:microbiology; D008401:Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry; D055432:Metabolomics / Q000379:methods*; D009812:Odorants; D010865:Pilot Projects; D012621:Seasons; D014871:Water Microbiology; D060753:Water Quality; D014881:Water Supply / Q000032:analysis*
chemical_list: D060766:Drinking Water