Phospholipid-derived fatty acids (PLFA) analysis

Definition

Phospholipid-derived fatty acids (PLFA) analysis is a technique used to profile microbial communities based on the unique fatty acid compositions of their cell membranes. It helps in identifying and quantifying different microorganisms present in an environmental sample.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. PLFA analysis can differentiate between various microbial taxa by analyzing the fatty acid profiles of phospholipids in their cell membranes.
2. It is a powerful tool for studying shifts in microbial community structure and health in response to environmental changes.
3. PLFA profiles provide insights into the microbial biomass, diversity, and activity within a sample.
4. The method involves extracting lipids from the sample, converting them to fatty acid methyl esters (FAMEs), and analyzing them using gas chromatography (GC).
5. This technique is non-culture-based, allowing for the study of both culturable and non-culturable microorganisms.

Review Questions

• What does PLFA analysis help determine about microbial communities?
• Why is PLFA analysis considered advantageous over culture-based methods?
• Describe briefly the steps involved in PLFA analysis.

Related terms

Gas Chromatography (GC): A method used to separate and analyze compounds that can be vaporized without decomposition.

Fatty Acid Methyl Esters (FAMEs): Derivatives of fatty acids created through transesterification, commonly analyzed in lipid profiling techniques.

Microbial Biomass: The total mass of microorganisms within a given volume or mass of an environment.