Scientists have shown that it is possible to determine the biological potential of living things by collecting samples and searching for the so-called natural DNA. How is it done? Organisms leave behind trails of their DNA in the environment, whether it be in water or soil. With this knowledge, researchers show it’s possible to collect that DNA and examine it.
Shutterstock
According to author Dr. Elizabeth Clare, who is also a Senior Lecturer at the Queen Mary University of London, the use of DNA has emerged as a growing topic of interest in the scientific community, particularly conservationists or environmentalists who are looking for non-invasive and effective methods of monitoring biodiversity.
Clare opined that for instance, this approach could enable us to understand airborne pathogens better. How they develop, how they might spread and how can we control that spread if need be.
Shutterstock
She added that at present, the guidelines are based on estimates of how far viral particles can travel and physics, but in this way, it is possible to gather air samples and collect real-world evidence in support of these guidelines.
In a recent study, scientists found that animal DNA could also be obtained from an air sample outdoors. They collected samples inside and outside the zoo and were able to identify seventeen species of animals that live in or near the zoo.
