Biotechnological Relevance of Pseudomonads

Abstract

Pseudomonads represent a versatile group of Gram-negative bacteria capable of synthesizing a variety of secondary metabolites and biopolymers that are of biotechnological relevance (Figure 14.1). In addition to their enormous biosynthesis capacity, pseudomonads are able to degrade various recalcitrant compounds such as chlorinated aromatic hydrocarbons that can be found as pollutants in the environment. Thus, pseudomonads and their degradation pathways in engineered microorganisms have been conceived for the clean-up of polluted sites. The ability to metabolize a variety of diverse nutrients combined with the ability to form biofilms enables these bacteria to survive in a variety of habitats. Pseudomonads have been considered for the following biotechnological applications: bioremediation, production of polymers, biotransformation, low-molecular-weight compound production, recombinant protein production and biocontrol agents. The relevance of pseudomonads in the particular biotechnological field will be compiled and discussed below