Molecular Biology Methods to Assess Microbiological Hazard Concerning Objects of Cultural Heritage
Tomasz Lech *
Department of Microbiology, Cracow University of Economics, Rakowicka 27, 31-510 Krakow, Poland.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Microorganisms present in the environment pose a considerable hazard to historical objects and works of art. They are capable of settling on objects, and due to their ability to produce various enzymes, they can actively destroy these special objects, the poor preservation of which additionally facilitates degradation. In order to prevent biodeterioration of cultural heritage objects it is essential to maintain adequate physical conditions in the environment in which they are stored. It is also significant to monitor their microbiological condition both for quantity and diversity of microorganisms. Methods based on molecular biology enable a rapid and more accurate analysis of the microbiological condition in such environments thus allowing early intervention of a conservator. Nevertheless, the conventional microbiological methods must not be depreciated, but rather supplemented with novel solutions. The aim of this paper is to present the application of advanced methods of molecular biology in combination with methods of conventional microbiology in a quantitative and qualitative analysis of microorganisms present on the surfaces of historical objects and in environments in which they are stored.
Keywords: Microbiology, biodeterioration, decomposition, PCR, historical objects