A methodology for coupling DGGE and mathematical modelling : application in bio-hydrogen production

Abstract

Molecular biology techniques provide valuable information in terms of microbial dynamic and evolution. DGGE analysis is one of the most popular methods, which has been used in bioprocess assessment. A novel procedure that combines common experimental measurements, DGGE and image analysis is presented as a new methodology for preliminary assessment. In this study, the methodology was applied as an example to the start up of a hydrogen bioreactor, in order to have a preliminary estimation of the actual concentration of the different microbial species. The obtained results are used for determining the kinetic parameter by using a simple mathematical model focusing on species dynamic.