Biology of Rhodococcus

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
Rhodococcu
s
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
.

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.