The Good, The Bad and The Ugly: Multiple Roles of Bacteria in Human Life

The Good, The Bad and The Ugly: Multiple Roles of Bacteria in Human Life

Author: Tatiana Venkova

Publisher: Frontiers Media SA

Published: 2018-10-17

Total Pages: 518

ISBN-13: 2889455742

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Bacteria are among the earliest forms of life on Earth. Notwithstanding their small size and primitive origin, bacteria still have a tremendous impact on everyday human life. Over the centuries, research into bacteria have provided and enriched the fundamental biological knowledge due to their readily measured processes and effects on higher organisms. Although molecular genetics and microbiology were among the scientific fields that have mostly benefited from the discoveries made in bacteria, our current state of knowledge has gone beyond what anyone could have ever imagined. The present Research Topic aims to cover new and exciting broad aspects of the importance of bacteria to human life, both positive and negative influences. Regulation of bacterial gene expression, replication and segregation control mechanisms, cell to cell communication via quorum sensors, and the relatively recent finding of bacterial immunity via CRISPR, have led to the development of many, and very important new tools in biotechnology and the emerging field of molecular medicine. The battle against infectious diseases has also benefited from the genetic approaches that have been developed in the quest for finding new targets and novel drugs against pathogenic bacteria. At the next level, the human microbiome project has opened up new avenues in understanding the role of bacteria in human health and wellbeing. Finally, the relationship between bacterial infections and human cancers will also be covered, a subject that is still under verification through rigorous experimental approaches. Special emphasis will be given to the bacterial accessory genome, i.e the mobilome, as the primary cause of health-threatening antimicrobial resistance and the production of toxins and virulence factors. Taking into account the evolutionary importance of horizontal gene transfer and the additional beneficial roles of certain bacterial mobile genetic elements, they help project best “the Good, the Bad and the Ugly” outline of this topic. At the time this eBook is about to be published, our Research Topic has registered nearly 55, 000 views.


Book Synopsis The Good, The Bad and The Ugly: Multiple Roles of Bacteria in Human Life by : Tatiana Venkova

Download or read book The Good, The Bad and The Ugly: Multiple Roles of Bacteria in Human Life written by Tatiana Venkova and published by Frontiers Media SA. This book was released on 2018-10-17 with total page 518 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Bacteria are among the earliest forms of life on Earth. Notwithstanding their small size and primitive origin, bacteria still have a tremendous impact on everyday human life. Over the centuries, research into bacteria have provided and enriched the fundamental biological knowledge due to their readily measured processes and effects on higher organisms. Although molecular genetics and microbiology were among the scientific fields that have mostly benefited from the discoveries made in bacteria, our current state of knowledge has gone beyond what anyone could have ever imagined. The present Research Topic aims to cover new and exciting broad aspects of the importance of bacteria to human life, both positive and negative influences. Regulation of bacterial gene expression, replication and segregation control mechanisms, cell to cell communication via quorum sensors, and the relatively recent finding of bacterial immunity via CRISPR, have led to the development of many, and very important new tools in biotechnology and the emerging field of molecular medicine. The battle against infectious diseases has also benefited from the genetic approaches that have been developed in the quest for finding new targets and novel drugs against pathogenic bacteria. At the next level, the human microbiome project has opened up new avenues in understanding the role of bacteria in human health and wellbeing. Finally, the relationship between bacterial infections and human cancers will also be covered, a subject that is still under verification through rigorous experimental approaches. Special emphasis will be given to the bacterial accessory genome, i.e the mobilome, as the primary cause of health-threatening antimicrobial resistance and the production of toxins and virulence factors. Taking into account the evolutionary importance of horizontal gene transfer and the additional beneficial roles of certain bacterial mobile genetic elements, they help project best “the Good, the Bad and the Ugly” outline of this topic. At the time this eBook is about to be published, our Research Topic has registered nearly 55, 000 views.

The Good, The Bad and The Ugly: Multiple Roles of Bacteria in Human Life

The Good, The Bad and The Ugly: Multiple Roles of Bacteria in Human Life

Author:

Publisher:

Published: 2018

Total Pages: 0

ISBN-13:

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Bacteria are among the earliest forms of life on Earth. Notwithstanding their small size and primitive origin, bacteria still have a tremendous impact on everyday human life. Over the centuries, research into bacteria have provided and enriched the fundamental biological knowledge due to their readily measured processes and effects on higher organisms. Although molecular genetics and microbiology were among the scientific fields that have mostly benefited from the discoveries made in bacteria, our current state of knowledge has gone beyond what anyone could have ever imagined. The present Research Topic aims to cover new and exciting broad aspects of the importance of bacteria to human life, both positive and negative influences. Regulation of bacterial gene expression, replication and segregation control mechanisms, cell to cell communication via quorum sensors, and the relatively recent finding of bacterial immunity via CRISPR, have led to the development of many, and very important new tools in biotechnology and the emerging field of molecular medicine. The battle against infectious diseases has also benefited from the genetic approaches that have been developed in the quest for finding new targets and novel drugs against pathogenic bacteria. At the next level, the human microbiome project has opened up new avenues in understanding the role of bacteria in human health and wellbeing. Finally, the relationship between bacterial infections and human cancers will also be covered, a subject that is still under verification through rigorous experimental approaches. Special emphasis will be given to the bacterial accessory genome, i.e the mobilome, as the primary cause of health-threatening antimicrobial resistance and the production of toxins and virulence factors. Taking into account the evolutionary importance of horizontal gene transfer and the additional beneficial roles of certain bacterial mobile genetic elements, they help project best "the Good, the Bad and the Ugly" outline of this topic. At the time this eBook is about to be published, our Research Topic has registered nearly 55, 000 views.


Book Synopsis The Good, The Bad and The Ugly: Multiple Roles of Bacteria in Human Life by :

Download or read book The Good, The Bad and The Ugly: Multiple Roles of Bacteria in Human Life written by and published by . This book was released on 2018 with total page 0 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Bacteria are among the earliest forms of life on Earth. Notwithstanding their small size and primitive origin, bacteria still have a tremendous impact on everyday human life. Over the centuries, research into bacteria have provided and enriched the fundamental biological knowledge due to their readily measured processes and effects on higher organisms. Although molecular genetics and microbiology were among the scientific fields that have mostly benefited from the discoveries made in bacteria, our current state of knowledge has gone beyond what anyone could have ever imagined. The present Research Topic aims to cover new and exciting broad aspects of the importance of bacteria to human life, both positive and negative influences. Regulation of bacterial gene expression, replication and segregation control mechanisms, cell to cell communication via quorum sensors, and the relatively recent finding of bacterial immunity via CRISPR, have led to the development of many, and very important new tools in biotechnology and the emerging field of molecular medicine. The battle against infectious diseases has also benefited from the genetic approaches that have been developed in the quest for finding new targets and novel drugs against pathogenic bacteria. At the next level, the human microbiome project has opened up new avenues in understanding the role of bacteria in human health and wellbeing. Finally, the relationship between bacterial infections and human cancers will also be covered, a subject that is still under verification through rigorous experimental approaches. Special emphasis will be given to the bacterial accessory genome, i.e the mobilome, as the primary cause of health-threatening antimicrobial resistance and the production of toxins and virulence factors. Taking into account the evolutionary importance of horizontal gene transfer and the additional beneficial roles of certain bacterial mobile genetic elements, they help project best "the Good, the Bad and the Ugly" outline of this topic. At the time this eBook is about to be published, our Research Topic has registered nearly 55, 000 views.

Microbes

Microbes

Author: Joanne Randolph

Publisher: Enslow Publishing, LLC

Published: 2017-07-15

Total Pages: 50

ISBN-13: 0766089975

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Microbes are the oldest living organisms on the planet. They have been around for billions of years. Why haven’t you seen them, then? Microbes are tiny, single-celled organisms—millions could fit in the eye of a needle. You might think of microbes as organisms that make us sick. This is true, but it is also true that we couldn’t live without them. Readers will be thrilled to learn more about the microscopic world of microbes and their impact on the human body.


Book Synopsis Microbes by : Joanne Randolph

Download or read book Microbes written by Joanne Randolph and published by Enslow Publishing, LLC. This book was released on 2017-07-15 with total page 50 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Microbes are the oldest living organisms on the planet. They have been around for billions of years. Why haven’t you seen them, then? Microbes are tiny, single-celled organisms—millions could fit in the eye of a needle. You might think of microbes as organisms that make us sick. This is true, but it is also true that we couldn’t live without them. Readers will be thrilled to learn more about the microscopic world of microbes and their impact on the human body.

Research Anthology on Synthesis, Characterization, and Applications of Nanomaterials

Research Anthology on Synthesis, Characterization, and Applications of Nanomaterials

Author: Management Association, Information Resources

Publisher: IGI Global

Published: 2021-03-19

Total Pages: 1917

ISBN-13: 1799887367

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The use of nanotechnologies continues to grow, as nanomaterials have proven their versatility and use in many different fields and industries within the scientific profession. Using nanotechnology, materials can be made lighter, more durable, more reactive, and more efficient leading nanoscale materials to enhance many everyday products and processes. With many different sizes, shapes, and internal structures, the applications are endless. These uses range from pharmaceutics to materials such as cement or cloth, electronics, environmental sustainability, and more. Therefore, there has been a recent surge of research focused on the synthesis and characterizations of these nanomaterials to better understand how they can be used, their applications, and the many different types. The Research Anthology on Synthesis, Characterization, and Applications of Nanomaterials seeks to address not only how nanomaterials are created, used, or characterized, but also to apply this knowledge to the multidimensional industries, fields, and applications of nanomaterials and nanoscience. This includes topics such as both natural and manmade nanomaterials; the size, shape, reactivity, and other essential characteristics of nanomaterials; challenges and potential effects of using nanomaterials; and the advantages of nanomaterials with multidisciplinary uses. This book is ideally designed for researchers, engineers, practitioners, industrialists, educators, strategists, policymakers, scientists, and students working in fields that include materials engineering, engineering science, nanotechnology, biotechnology, microbiology, drug design and delivery, medicine, and more.


Book Synopsis Research Anthology on Synthesis, Characterization, and Applications of Nanomaterials by : Management Association, Information Resources

Download or read book Research Anthology on Synthesis, Characterization, and Applications of Nanomaterials written by Management Association, Information Resources and published by IGI Global. This book was released on 2021-03-19 with total page 1917 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: The use of nanotechnologies continues to grow, as nanomaterials have proven their versatility and use in many different fields and industries within the scientific profession. Using nanotechnology, materials can be made lighter, more durable, more reactive, and more efficient leading nanoscale materials to enhance many everyday products and processes. With many different sizes, shapes, and internal structures, the applications are endless. These uses range from pharmaceutics to materials such as cement or cloth, electronics, environmental sustainability, and more. Therefore, there has been a recent surge of research focused on the synthesis and characterizations of these nanomaterials to better understand how they can be used, their applications, and the many different types. The Research Anthology on Synthesis, Characterization, and Applications of Nanomaterials seeks to address not only how nanomaterials are created, used, or characterized, but also to apply this knowledge to the multidimensional industries, fields, and applications of nanomaterials and nanoscience. This includes topics such as both natural and manmade nanomaterials; the size, shape, reactivity, and other essential characteristics of nanomaterials; challenges and potential effects of using nanomaterials; and the advantages of nanomaterials with multidisciplinary uses. This book is ideally designed for researchers, engineers, practitioners, industrialists, educators, strategists, policymakers, scientists, and students working in fields that include materials engineering, engineering science, nanotechnology, biotechnology, microbiology, drug design and delivery, medicine, and more.

Microbial Genetics

Microbial Genetics

Author: Sylwia Okoń

Publisher: CRC Press

Published: 2024-06-10

Total Pages: 627

ISBN-13: 1040043100

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This comprehensive book explores both the fundamental and practical aspects of microbial genetics, shedding light on viroids, viruses, phytoplasma, bacteria, fungi, and protozoa. Unveiling a fresh perspective, the book tackles traditional taxonomical debates by embracing DNA-based taxonomy, offering a novel approach to understanding phylogeny within this microbe realm. Furthermore, it delves into the exciting realm of metagenomics, revolutionizing the identification and classification of unculturable microorganisms. Written by leading experts, this essential reading material caters to students and researchers in Microbiology, Genetics, and Biotechnology.


Book Synopsis Microbial Genetics by : Sylwia Okoń

Download or read book Microbial Genetics written by Sylwia Okoń and published by CRC Press. This book was released on 2024-06-10 with total page 627 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: This comprehensive book explores both the fundamental and practical aspects of microbial genetics, shedding light on viroids, viruses, phytoplasma, bacteria, fungi, and protozoa. Unveiling a fresh perspective, the book tackles traditional taxonomical debates by embracing DNA-based taxonomy, offering a novel approach to understanding phylogeny within this microbe realm. Furthermore, it delves into the exciting realm of metagenomics, revolutionizing the identification and classification of unculturable microorganisms. Written by leading experts, this essential reading material caters to students and researchers in Microbiology, Genetics, and Biotechnology.

Antimicrobial Textiles from Natural Resources

Antimicrobial Textiles from Natural Resources

Author: Ibrahim H. Mondal

Publisher: Woodhead Publishing

Published: 2021-03-20

Total Pages: 702

ISBN-13: 0128214864

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The textile industry is focused in its search for alternative green fibres with the aim of providing high-quality products which are fully recyclable and biodegradable. Natural textile materials from renewable sources play an increasingly important role in the industry due to their unique properties and functionality over synthetic fibres, as well as their sustainability. Antimicrobial Textiles from Natural Resources is an in-depth guide to the latest methods and applications of natural antimicrobial materials. A broad range of applications are addressed, from common to specialized applications, including many in the biomedical sector. This world-class collection of contributors write from a range of disciplinary backgrounds, providing important insights from textile science and technology, materials science, chemical engineering, and biomedical engineering. Advice and proposed solutions are presented in a rigorous and practical way, drawing on results and case studies obtained from academic and industrial laboratories worldwide. Examines how natural fibres can be used in the place of less renewable or sustainable choices, thus helping designers improve the sustainability of their products Provides unique coverage of the biofunctionality of biopolymers in textiles Explains how antimicrobial properties can reduce odour, extend the life of textiles, and provide numerous medical benefits


Book Synopsis Antimicrobial Textiles from Natural Resources by : Ibrahim H. Mondal

Download or read book Antimicrobial Textiles from Natural Resources written by Ibrahim H. Mondal and published by Woodhead Publishing. This book was released on 2021-03-20 with total page 702 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: The textile industry is focused in its search for alternative green fibres with the aim of providing high-quality products which are fully recyclable and biodegradable. Natural textile materials from renewable sources play an increasingly important role in the industry due to their unique properties and functionality over synthetic fibres, as well as their sustainability. Antimicrobial Textiles from Natural Resources is an in-depth guide to the latest methods and applications of natural antimicrobial materials. A broad range of applications are addressed, from common to specialized applications, including many in the biomedical sector. This world-class collection of contributors write from a range of disciplinary backgrounds, providing important insights from textile science and technology, materials science, chemical engineering, and biomedical engineering. Advice and proposed solutions are presented in a rigorous and practical way, drawing on results and case studies obtained from academic and industrial laboratories worldwide. Examines how natural fibres can be used in the place of less renewable or sustainable choices, thus helping designers improve the sustainability of their products Provides unique coverage of the biofunctionality of biopolymers in textiles Explains how antimicrobial properties can reduce odour, extend the life of textiles, and provide numerous medical benefits

The Role of Metal Ions in Biology, Biochemistry and Medicine

The Role of Metal Ions in Biology, Biochemistry and Medicine

Author: Michael Moustakas

Publisher: MDPI

Published: 2021-09-06

Total Pages: 180

ISBN-13: 3036510540

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Metal ions are fundamental elements for the maintenance of the lifespan of plants, animals and humans. Their substantial role in biological systems was recognized a long time ago. They are essential for the maintenance of life and their absence can cause growth disorders, severe malfunction, carcinogenesis or death. They are protagonists as macro- or microelements in several structural and functional roles, participating in many bio-chemical reactions, and arise in several forms. They participate in intra- and intercellular communications, in maintaining electrical charges and osmotic pressure, in photosynthesis and electron transfer processes, in the maintenance of pairing, stacking and the stability of nucleotide bases and also in the regulation of DNA transcription. They contribute to the proper functioning of nerve cells, muscle cells, the brain and the heart, the transport of oxygen and to many other biological processes up to the point that we cannot even imagine a life without metals. In this book, the papers published in the Special Issue “The Role of Metal Ions in Biology, Biochemistry and Medicine” are summarized, providing a picture of metal ion uses in biology, biochemistry and medicine, but also pointing out the toxicity impacts on plants, animals, humans and the environment.


Book Synopsis The Role of Metal Ions in Biology, Biochemistry and Medicine by : Michael Moustakas

Download or read book The Role of Metal Ions in Biology, Biochemistry and Medicine written by Michael Moustakas and published by MDPI. This book was released on 2021-09-06 with total page 180 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Metal ions are fundamental elements for the maintenance of the lifespan of plants, animals and humans. Their substantial role in biological systems was recognized a long time ago. They are essential for the maintenance of life and their absence can cause growth disorders, severe malfunction, carcinogenesis or death. They are protagonists as macro- or microelements in several structural and functional roles, participating in many bio-chemical reactions, and arise in several forms. They participate in intra- and intercellular communications, in maintaining electrical charges and osmotic pressure, in photosynthesis and electron transfer processes, in the maintenance of pairing, stacking and the stability of nucleotide bases and also in the regulation of DNA transcription. They contribute to the proper functioning of nerve cells, muscle cells, the brain and the heart, the transport of oxygen and to many other biological processes up to the point that we cannot even imagine a life without metals. In this book, the papers published in the Special Issue “The Role of Metal Ions in Biology, Biochemistry and Medicine” are summarized, providing a picture of metal ion uses in biology, biochemistry and medicine, but also pointing out the toxicity impacts on plants, animals, humans and the environment.

Human Microbes - The Power Within

Human Microbes - The Power Within

Author: Vasu D. Appanna

Publisher: Springer

Published: 2018-02-05

Total Pages: 175

ISBN-13: 9811076847

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This book offers a unique perspective on the invisible organ, a body part that has been visualized only recently. It guides the readers into the world of the microbial constituents that make humans the way they are. The vitamins they produce, the smell they generate, the signals they create, and the molecular guards they elaborate are some of the benefits they bestow on humans. After introducing the notion as to why microbes are an integral component in the development of humans, the book examines the genesis of the microbiome and describes how the resident bacteria work in partnership with the skin, digestive tract, sexual organs, mouth and lungs to execute vital physiological functions. It then discusses the diseases that are triggered by the disruption of the harmonious relationships amongst these diverse systems and provides microbial cures to ailments such as obesity and digestive complications. Finally, the book focuses on the future when the workings of the human microbes will be fully unravelled. Societal changes in health education, the establishment of the microbiome bank, the fight against hunger, space travel, designer traits and enhanced security are explained. Each chapter is accompanied by captivating illustrations and ends with a visual summary. Dr. Appanna has been researching for over 30 years on various aspects of microbial and human cellular systems. He is a professor of biochemistry and has also served as Department Chair and Dean of the Faculty at Laurentian University, Sudbury, Canada. The book is aimed at readers enrolled in medical, chiropractic, nursing, pharmacy, and health science programs. Practicing health-care professionals and continuing education learners will also find the content beneficial.


Book Synopsis Human Microbes - The Power Within by : Vasu D. Appanna

Download or read book Human Microbes - The Power Within written by Vasu D. Appanna and published by Springer. This book was released on 2018-02-05 with total page 175 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: This book offers a unique perspective on the invisible organ, a body part that has been visualized only recently. It guides the readers into the world of the microbial constituents that make humans the way they are. The vitamins they produce, the smell they generate, the signals they create, and the molecular guards they elaborate are some of the benefits they bestow on humans. After introducing the notion as to why microbes are an integral component in the development of humans, the book examines the genesis of the microbiome and describes how the resident bacteria work in partnership with the skin, digestive tract, sexual organs, mouth and lungs to execute vital physiological functions. It then discusses the diseases that are triggered by the disruption of the harmonious relationships amongst these diverse systems and provides microbial cures to ailments such as obesity and digestive complications. Finally, the book focuses on the future when the workings of the human microbes will be fully unravelled. Societal changes in health education, the establishment of the microbiome bank, the fight against hunger, space travel, designer traits and enhanced security are explained. Each chapter is accompanied by captivating illustrations and ends with a visual summary. Dr. Appanna has been researching for over 30 years on various aspects of microbial and human cellular systems. He is a professor of biochemistry and has also served as Department Chair and Dean of the Faculty at Laurentian University, Sudbury, Canada. The book is aimed at readers enrolled in medical, chiropractic, nursing, pharmacy, and health science programs. Practicing health-care professionals and continuing education learners will also find the content beneficial.

Microbiology

Microbiology

Author: Holly Ahern

Publisher:

Published: 2018-05-22

Total Pages: 140

ISBN-13: 9781942341536

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As a group of organisms that are too small to see and best known for being agents of disease and death, microbes are not always appreciated for the numerous supportive and positive contributions they make to the living world. Designed to support a course in microbiology, Microbiology: A Laboratory Experience permits a glimpse into both the good and the bad in the microscopic world. The laboratory experiences are designed to engage and support student interest in microbiology as a topic, field of study, and career. This text provides a series of laboratory exercises compatible with a one-semester undergraduate microbiology or bacteriology course with a three- or four-hour lab period that meets once or twice a week. The design of the lab manual conforms to the American Society for Microbiology curriculum guidelines and takes a ground-up approach -- beginning with an introduction to biosafety and containment practices and how to work with biological hazards. From there the course moves to basic but essential microscopy skills, aseptic technique and culture methods, and builds to include more advanced lab techniques. The exercises incorporate a semester-long investigative laboratory project designed to promote the sense of discovery and encourage student engagement. The curriculum is rigorous but manageable for a single semester and incorporates best practices in biology education.


Book Synopsis Microbiology by : Holly Ahern

Download or read book Microbiology written by Holly Ahern and published by . This book was released on 2018-05-22 with total page 140 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: As a group of organisms that are too small to see and best known for being agents of disease and death, microbes are not always appreciated for the numerous supportive and positive contributions they make to the living world. Designed to support a course in microbiology, Microbiology: A Laboratory Experience permits a glimpse into both the good and the bad in the microscopic world. The laboratory experiences are designed to engage and support student interest in microbiology as a topic, field of study, and career. This text provides a series of laboratory exercises compatible with a one-semester undergraduate microbiology or bacteriology course with a three- or four-hour lab period that meets once or twice a week. The design of the lab manual conforms to the American Society for Microbiology curriculum guidelines and takes a ground-up approach -- beginning with an introduction to biosafety and containment practices and how to work with biological hazards. From there the course moves to basic but essential microscopy skills, aseptic technique and culture methods, and builds to include more advanced lab techniques. The exercises incorporate a semester-long investigative laboratory project designed to promote the sense of discovery and encourage student engagement. The curriculum is rigorous but manageable for a single semester and incorporates best practices in biology education.

Microbial Evolution

Microbial Evolution

Author: Howard Ochman

Publisher:

Published: 2016

Total Pages: 0

ISBN-13: 9781621820376

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Bacteria have been the dominant forms of life on Earth for the past 3.5 billion years. They rapidly evolve, constantly changing their genetic architecture through horizontal DNA transfer and other mechanisms. Consequently, it can be difficult to define individual species and determine how they are related. Written and edited by experts in the field, this collection from Cold Spring Harbor Perspectives in Biology examines how bacteria and other microbes evolve, focusing on insights from genomics-based studies. Contributors discuss the origins of new microbial populations, the evolutionary and ecological mechanisms that keep species separate once they have diverged, and the challenges of constructing phylogenetic trees that accurately reflect their relationships. They describe the organization of microbial genomes, the various mutations that occur, including the birth of new genes de novo and by duplication, and how natural selection acts on those changes. The role of horizontal gene transfer as a strong driver of microbial evolution is emphasized throughout. The authors also explore the geologic evidence for early microbial evolution and describe the use of microbial evolution experiments to examine phenomena like natural selection. This volume will thus be essential reading for all microbial ecologists, population geneticists, and evolutionary biologists.


Book Synopsis Microbial Evolution by : Howard Ochman

Download or read book Microbial Evolution written by Howard Ochman and published by . This book was released on 2016 with total page 0 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Bacteria have been the dominant forms of life on Earth for the past 3.5 billion years. They rapidly evolve, constantly changing their genetic architecture through horizontal DNA transfer and other mechanisms. Consequently, it can be difficult to define individual species and determine how they are related. Written and edited by experts in the field, this collection from Cold Spring Harbor Perspectives in Biology examines how bacteria and other microbes evolve, focusing on insights from genomics-based studies. Contributors discuss the origins of new microbial populations, the evolutionary and ecological mechanisms that keep species separate once they have diverged, and the challenges of constructing phylogenetic trees that accurately reflect their relationships. They describe the organization of microbial genomes, the various mutations that occur, including the birth of new genes de novo and by duplication, and how natural selection acts on those changes. The role of horizontal gene transfer as a strong driver of microbial evolution is emphasized throughout. The authors also explore the geologic evidence for early microbial evolution and describe the use of microbial evolution experiments to examine phenomena like natural selection. This volume will thus be essential reading for all microbial ecologists, population geneticists, and evolutionary biologists.