BookHéctor M. Alvarez.
Summary: Rhodococcus, a metabolically versatile actinobacterium which is frequently found in the environment, has gained increasing interest due to its potential biotechnological applications. This Microbiology Monographs volume provides a thorough review of the various aspects of the biochemistry, physiology and genetics of the Genus Rhodococcus. Following an overview of its taxonomy, chapters cover the structural aspects of rhodococcal cellular envelope, genomes and plasmids, metabolic and catabolic pathways, such as those of aromatic compounds, steroids and nitriles, and desulfurization pathways, as well as adaption to organic solvents. Further reviews discuss applications of Rhodococcus in the bioremediation of contaminated environments, in triacylglycerols accumulation, and in phytopathogenic strategies, as well as the potential of biosurfactants. In addition, properties of these bacteria to thrive and survive in oligotrophic environments are also discussed. A final chapter describes the sole pathogenic Rhodococcus member, R. equi.
Contents:
Refined Systematics of the Genus Rhodococcus Based on Whole Genome Analyses
Genomics of Rhodococcus
Central Metabolism of Species of the Genus Rhodococcus
Oligotrophic Growth of Rhodococcus
Adaptation of Rhodococcus to Organic Solvents
Degradation of Alkanes in Rhodococcus
Biodegradation of Nitriles by Rhodococcus
The Desulfurization Pathway in Rhodococcus
Bioremediation of Contaminated Environments Using Rhodococcus
Production of Trehalolipid Biosurfactants by Rhodococcus
Biology of Triacylglycerol Accumulation by Rhodococcus
Interaction of Rhodococcus with Metals and Biotechnological Applications
Plant-Associated Rhodococcus Species, for Better and for Worse.