Developing DNA Fingerprinting Technology
R. Atwill, Veterinary Medicine Extension, VMTRC; Metropolitan Water District of Southern California
Water quality is degraded when pathogens are present in sufficient concentration that outbreaks of waterborne disease occur in humans or in animals.
Problem: The source of waterborne pathogens typically remains unknown, primarily because of a lack of sophisticated techniques capable of differentiating pathogens from various ma mmalian sources.
Approach: Develop DNA fingerprinting technology for identifying the adulterating source(s) of C. parvum in contaminated source water.