Genomics-based insights into the evolution of secondary metabolite biosynthesis in actinomycete bacteria

Publications: Contribution to bookChapterPeer Reviewed

Abstract

Actinomycete bacteria are known for their ability to produce chemically diverse secondary metabolites with various biological activities, some of which are being used in human therapy as anti-microbial and anti-cancer agents. Recent genome sequencing and analyses revealed that these bacteria have a much larger potential to biosynthesize secondary metabolites that was previously assumed from a conventional bioactivity screening. Indeed, each actinomycete genome was shown to carry 20–30 gene clusters for biosynthesis of secondary metabolites, most of which are not expressed in the laboratory conditions. Detailed analysis of such gene clusters along with comparative genomics studies identified some interesting features reflecting evolution of the clusters upon transfer to a new host. Moreover, insights into the process of forming new, hybrid gene clusters via recombination events at the ends of the linear chromosomes have been gained. This chapter presents and discusses recent advances in genomics of actinomycetes and its impact on our understanding of secondary metabolism evolution in these bacteria.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationEvolutionary Biology
Subtitle of host publicationGenome Evolution, Speciation, Coevolution and Origin of Life
PublisherSpringer International Publishing
Pages35-45
Number of pages11
ISBN (Electronic)9783319076232
ISBN (Print)9783319076225
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 1 Jan 2014
Externally publishedYes

Austrian Fields of Science 2012

  • 106012 Evolutionary research

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