Marine metagenomics as a source for bioprospecting

Rimantas Kodzius; Takashi Gojobori

doi:10.1016/j.margen.2015.07.001

Marine metagenomics as a source for bioprospecting

Mar Genomics. 2015 Dec:24 Pt 1:21-30. doi: 10.1016/j.margen.2015.07.001. Epub 2015 Aug 12.

Authors

Rimantas Kodzius¹, Takashi Gojobori²

Affiliations

¹ Computational Bioscience Research Center (CBRC), Saudi Arabia; Computer, Electrical and Mathematical Sciences and Engineering Division (CEMSE), Saudi Arabia; King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Saudi Arabia. Electronic address: Rimantas.Kodzius@kaust.edu.sa.
² Computational Bioscience Research Center (CBRC), Saudi Arabia; Biological and Environmental Sciences and Engineering Division (BESE), Saudi Arabia; King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Saudi Arabia. Electronic address: Takashi.Gojobori@kaust.edu.sa.

PMID: 26204808
DOI: 10.1016/j.margen.2015.07.001

Abstract

This review summarizes usage of genome-editing technologies for metagenomic studies; these studies are used to retrieve and modify valuable microorganisms for production, particularly in marine metagenomics. Organisms may be cultivable or uncultivable. Metagenomics is providing especially valuable information for uncultivable samples. The novel genes, pathways and genomes can be deducted. Therefore, metagenomics, particularly genome engineering and system biology, allows for the enhancement of biological and chemical producers and the creation of novel bioresources. With natural resources rapidly depleting, genomics may be an effective way to efficiently produce quantities of known and novel foods, livestock feed, fuels, pharmaceuticals and fine or bulk chemicals.

Keywords: Bioprospecting; Genetic engineering; Metabolic engineering; Microorganism; Producer; Synthetic biology.

Publication types

Review

MeSH terms

Animals
Aquatic Organisms / chemistry
Aquatic Organisms / genetics*
Aquatic Organisms / metabolism
Biodiversity
Biological Evolution
Drug Discovery
Food
Metagenomics*