Quantification of metal-resistant genes from the microbial community of uranium mine soils

Background: Bacteria can thrive in environments presenting unique, extreme and/or stressful conditions, partly due to the diverse resistome they evolved as a result of physiological, metabolic and genetic adaptations. In this context, the microbial communities in soils from abandoned uranium mines may have peculiar genetic profiles that sustain valuable metal-resistance mechanisms. Getting further knowledge on the genetic potential of these microbial communities can be a contribute for developing bioremediation strategies towards the reclamation of highly contaminated uranium mine soils. Objectives: To quantify metal-resistance genes harboured by the microbial community of soil samples coll…