Enzyme Assays

Dehydrogenase activity (DHA) is one of the most frequently used biological parameters of soil quality. Dehydrogenase enzymes are found in all microorganisms and catalyse hydrogen transfer from an organic substrate (such as a hydrocarbon contaminant) to an inorganic acceptor. Because of the ubiquity of dehydrogenases in live cells, measuring DHA provides correlative information about total microbial biomass and oxidative ability in the soil.

DHA measurements can also be used to estimate disruption to soil activity by contaminants, and to plan the most efficient bioremediation strategy. High DHA activity is correlated with high rates of hydrocarbon biodegradation. Novorem can conduct rapid and reliable DHA assays to help you understand the microbiological state of your site.