Grand Challenges in Microbiotechnology: Through the Prism of Microbiotechnology.

Abstract

Microbes have conquered almost every conceivable space on earth—from high atmospheres to terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems to extreme places such as geothermal vents in the deep sea, oil reservoirs, or boiling hot springs. Survival in these varied environments necessitates a breathtaking span of genetic diversity, enabling the metabolism and synthesis of many different substrates for both energy creation and biomass buildup and to gain an evolutionary advantage over other life forms sharing the same ecosystem. Of particular biotechnological interest are molecules referred to as secondary metabolites that often feature a unique chemical makeup and can encompass functions such as ion scavenging, quorum sensing, or act as antimicrobials.