Using the class 1 integron-integrase gene as a proxy for anthropogenic pollution

Around all human activity, there are zones of pollution with pesticides, heavy metals, pharmaceuticals, personal care products and the microorganisms associated with human waste streams and agriculture. This diversity of pollutants, whose concentration varies spatially and temporally, is a major challenge for monitoring. Here, we suggest that the relative abundance of the clinical class 1 integron-integrase gene, intI1, is a good proxy for pollution because: (1) intI1 is linked to genes conferring resistance to antibiotics, disinfectants and heavy metals; (2) it is found in a wide variety of pathogenic and nonpathogenic bacteria; (3) its abundance can change rapidly because its host cells can have rapid…

• NS
  National Science Foundation

  Award: 1402651
• AP
  Alfred P. Sloan Foundation
• DF
  Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft

  Award: FOR 566
• NN
  National Natural Science Foundation of China
• U
  Umweltbundesamt
• AR
  Australian Research Council