Application of genomic method for the detection and identification of airborne microbial DNA

The existence of viable (injured, non-injured and non-culturable) and dead microorganisms in the air, and their potential effect on ecosystems, and public health is of significant concern. Some of these airborne microorganisms have the capability to survive physical and chemical stresses encountered in the air. Some of these microorganisms are pathogens, and may present potential threat for the safety of humans and ecosystems. Methods for the detection of these microorganisms can be crucial to assess air quality tests. In this study we develop a microbial recovery method for the isolation of genomic DNA from air-filtered samples. The genomic DNA was extracted directly from the sample to obtain DNA fragments from all members of the airborne microbial community. We anticipate that this study will give greater insight into the diversity and movement of microbial species.