(Microbiology Monographs) 2nd ed. 2019 Edition
by Héctor M. Alvarez (Editor)
Rhodococcus are
metabolically versatile actinobacteria frequently found in the
environment with potential applications in bioremediation,
biotransformations and biocatalysis, among other biotechnological
processes. These microorganisms are currently the subject of research in
many countries of the world. The number of publications and patents on
rhodococci has intensified significantly within the last years. In this
context, the knowledge acquired during the last decade about basic
aspects of Rhodococcus biology is significant and promising about their future prospects. Several genomic projects of Rhodococcus members
are now available and in progress through public and private efforts
due to the increasing interest in their use for biotechnology. The
large Rhodococcus genomes containing a multiplicity of catabolic
genes, a high genetic redundancy of biosynthetic pathways and a
sophisticated regulatory network reflect the complexity of Rhodococcus biology.
The combination of functional genomics studies with biochemical and
physiological knowledge is providing new insights, which will enable the
biotechnological use of rhodococci.
This Microbiology Monographs volume provides a thorough review of many aspects of biochemistry, physiology and genetics of Rhodococcus,
in the context of new genomic information. Expert international
scientists contributed with reviews on the extraordinary capability of Rhodococcus genus
for biodegradation of diverse compounds and bioremediation,
biosynthesis of lipids and biosurfactants, adaptation and tolerance to
solvents, interaction with metals and biotechnological applications.
Chapters dealing with taxonomy, genomes and plasmids, and oligotrophic
and central metabolism are also included in this volume. Moreover, the
book includes basic aspects of the phytopathogenic R. fascians.
