Beneficial Properties

 (C) Nate Holland 2007~ Slideshow of Thomas Brock and hot springs

Thermus aquaticus is one of the most helpful bacteria to humans that exists. The Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) is the most helpful process that Thermus aquaticus provides for society. The process of PCR has benefited thousands of people in many different ways. Criminal investigation has been advanced, due to PCR, because now criminal investigators can quickly and easily use DNA evidence to identify people. Doctors use the process of PCR to diagnose and treat genetic diseases. PCR helps the Parks Service identify and manage park wildlife. One of the most beneficial properties of Thermus aquaticus and the PCR process is the use of PCR by researchers to learn more about other extremophile. The most important benefit of PCR is its ability to make billions of copies of DNA sequences in a few hours. This enables DNA to be copied, for the use of research and medicine, quickly and easily with minimal labor.

    Luckily, for scientist, researchers, doctors, and civilians alike, there is no reason to believe that there will be a loss of these bacteria in the environment now or any time soon. If there was a loss of Thermus aquaticus, it would be a loss to all. Besides the loss of all the beneficial properties above, then all the new benefits that are currently being discovered would be lost. These include the use of enzymes extracted from Thermus aquaticus to: find a cure for breast cancer, enhance crops in the event of increased temperatures, and create a new source of gasoline. All of these benefits are currently being researched and if there was a loss of Thermus aquaticus, then these potential benefits would be lost.