The National Center for Scientific Research (NCSR) has conducted a study on the molecular analysis of sewer water. The study aimed to understand the microbial population present in wastewater and determine the possible health risks associated with it.

Sewer water is a mixture of household and industrial wastewater, and its disposal is a major concern. Therefore, an in-depth analysis of the sewer water was needed to ensure public health safety and environmental protection.

Methodology

The samples of sewer water were collected from different locations across the city, processed, and analyzed at the NCSR laboratory.

The analysis was carried out using advanced molecular techniques like Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) and High-throughput sequencing (HTS).

In PCR, the DNA of bacteria and viruses present in the sample was extracted and amplified using a specific set of primers.

This amplified DNA was then sequenced, and the results were compared with the database of known microorganisms to identify the presence of any harmful pathogens. HTS is a technique that sequences the entire DNA of microorganisms present in the sample and provides a more comprehensive analysis of the microbial population.

The samples were also tested for the presence of antibiotic-resistant genes, as they are a major public health concern. The analysis helped in understanding the spread of antibiotic resistance in microorganisms present in sewer water.

Results

The analysis revealed a diverse microbial population present in the sewers. The study found that there were high levels of bacteria like Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, which are known to cause diseases like diarrhea and skin infections.

The presence of these bacteria put public health at risk.

It was also found that the sewer water contained antibiotic-resistant genes like blaTEM and blaCTX-M, which are often found in pathogenic bacteria and contribute to the spread of antibiotic resistance.

This highlights the need for proper sewage treatment and disposal to minimize the spread of antibiotic-resistant bacteria in the environment.

The study also found that the sewer water contained high concentrations of organic pollutants like polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and PCBs.

These pollutants are often produced as a result of industrial activities and can have adverse effects on human health, including cancer, skin irritation, and respiratory problems.

Conclusion

Molecular analysis of sewer water is crucial for identifying and quantifying the microbial population present in wastewater.

The study carried out by NCSR provides valuable information about the microbial population and the health risks associated with it. Proper sewage treatment and disposal are necessary to minimize the spread of harmful pathogens and antibiotic-resistant bacteria in the environment.

The study highlights the need for effective sewage management policies to ensure public health safety and environmental protection.