Contaminant-Degrading Microorganisms Identified Using Stable Isotope Probing

Stable isotope probing (SIP) enables function to be linked with identity without isolating the microorganisms responsible. This culture-independent approach has been adapted to identify the microorganisms involved in the degradation of numerous environmental contaminants. SIP studies have been performed in situ or in laboratory microcosms inoculated with soil, sediment, groundwater or bioreactor samples. This review focuses on the microorganisms that have been identified in those projects. SIP studies involving the degradation of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, polychlorinated biphenyls, gasoline-associated contaminants, chlorinated solvents, hexahydro-1,3,5-trinitro-1,3,5-triazine (RDX), phenol, uranium, and pentachlorophenol are discussed. The significant diversity of contaminant-degrading microorganisms is highlighted.