Types of biomarkers (molecular markers) to assess organic matter

Authors

  • Ligia Macabu Ribas

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.5935/1809-2667.20120007

Keywords:

Biomarkers, Organic matter, Diagenesis

Abstract

Biomarkers are specific compounds characteristic of certain bodies, and their identification in natural environments allows inferences about the origin and evolution processes of organic matter. They are organic molecules which may be structurally related to a biological source, a biogeochemical process, or a specific geographical source. Geochemical markers provide information about sources, transport mechanisms, alterations, and sedimentation of organic matter. In addition, tracers must be stable during geochemical diagenesis, and easily detected in environmental samples. This review aims to show the use of different organic molecules used in the identification of organic matter.

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Author Biography

  • Ligia Macabu Ribas
    Doutoranda do Curso de Pós-Graduação em Ecologia e Recursos Naturais da Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense - UENF. Centro de Biociências e Biotecnologia. Laboratório de Ciências Ambientais. Av. Alberto Lamego, 2000, Parque Califórnia, CEP 28013-600, Campos dos Goytacazes, RJ, Brasil. E-mail: ligiamribas@yahoo.com.br.

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Published

27-04-2012

Issue

Section

Original articles

How to Cite

RIBAS, Ligia Macabu. Types of biomarkers (molecular markers) to assess organic matter. Revista Vértices, [S. l.], v. 14, n. 1, p. 103–119, 2012. DOI: 10.5935/1809-2667.20120007. Disponível em: https://editoraessentia.iff.edu.br/index.php/vertices/article/view/1809-2667.20120007.. Acesso em: 22 jul. 2024.