Metagenomics for the discovery of novel biosurfactants of environmental interest from marine ecosystems

Stephen A Jackson; Erik Borchert; Fergal O'Gara; Alan D W Dobson

doi:10.1016/j.copbio.2015.03.004

Metagenomics for the discovery of novel biosurfactants of environmental interest from marine ecosystems

Curr Opin Biotechnol. 2015 Jun:33:176-82. doi: 10.1016/j.copbio.2015.03.004. Epub 2015 Mar 24.

Authors

Stephen A Jackson¹, Erik Borchert¹, Fergal O'Gara², Alan D W Dobson³

Affiliations

¹ Marine Biotechnology Centre, Environmental Research Institute, National University of Ireland, Cork, Ireland.
² Marine Biotechnology Centre, Environmental Research Institute, National University of Ireland, Cork, Ireland; School of Microbiology, University College Cork, National University of Ireland, Cork, Ireland; BIOMERIT Research Centre, University College Cork, National University of Ireland, Cork, Ireland.
³ Marine Biotechnology Centre, Environmental Research Institute, National University of Ireland, Cork, Ireland; School of Microbiology, University College Cork, National University of Ireland, Cork, Ireland. Electronic address: a.dobson@ucc.ie.

PMID: 25812477
DOI: 10.1016/j.copbio.2015.03.004

Abstract

Research focused on the search for new biosurfactants aims to replace chemical surfactants, which while being cost-effective are ecologically undesirable. Metagenomics can lead to discovery of novel biosurfactants, tackling issues of low production yields. Recent successes include the heterologous production of biosurfactants. The dearth of biosurfactants discovered to date through metagenomics is puzzling given that good screening systems and heterologous host systems are available.

Publication types

Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
Review

MeSH terms

Biodegradation, Environmental
Ecosystem*
Humans
Hydrophobic and Hydrophilic Interactions
Metagenomics*
Surface-Active Agents / chemistry
Surface-Active Agents / metabolism*

Substances

Surface-Active Agents