K. Maruthachalam – Genetic Transformation Systems in Fungi (2 Volume set, 2015)

Автор: K. Maruthachalam
Название книги: Genetic Transformation Systems in Fungi (2 Volume set)
Формат: PDF
Жанр: Биологические науки
Страницы: 584
Качество: Изначально компьютерное, E-book

Several different transformation techniques have been developed over the years and readily shown to be decisive methods in fungal biotechnology. This book will cover the basics behind the most commonly used transformation methods, as well as associated tools and techniques. Each chapter will provide protocols along with examples used in laboratories worldwide. ​

Not only will this text provide a detailed background on applications in industrial and pharmaceutical relevant microbes, but also the importance of fungal pathogens in agricultural production (Phytophthora and Botrytis) and mammalian infection (Penicillium marneffei and Candida). Genetic Transformation Systems in Fungi, Volume 1 provides in-depth coverage of how the transformation of DNA is used to understand the genetic basis behind these fungal traits.

Fungi are a highly versatile class of microorganisms and their habitats are as
diverse. In nature, fungi play a crucial role in a range of degradation processes,
enabling recycling of valuable raw materials by wood decaying fungi
like the white rot fungus Phanerochaete chrysosporium . On the other hand,
fungi can be pests to food production like the rice blast fungus Magnaporthe
oryzae . Furthermore, mankind exploits the enzymatic opportunities of fungi
through classical industrial processes as ethanol production by the yeast
Saccharomyces cerevisiae and heterologous enzyme production by fi lamentous
fungi as Trichoderma reesei . All these stimulated an enormous number
of studies trying to understand as well as exploit the metabolic capabilities of
various fungal species.
One of the game-changing breakthroughs in fungal research was the
development of genetic transformation technology. This enabled researchers
to effi ciently modify the gene content of fungi and study the functional relevance.
Interestingly, the fi rst available method (protoplast or spheroplast
transformation) evolved from an existing classical method called protoplast
fusion, a process which also introduces DNA into a receiving cell however in
an uncontrolled way.
This publication aims to give an overview of all existing transformation
methods used for yeasts and fungi. It is meant not only as reference material
for the experienced researcher but also as introduction for the emerging scientist.
Therefore, all methods are supported by several illustrative example
protocols from various fungal species and laboratories around the world,
which will be a good starting position to develop a working protocol for other
fungal species being studied.
Transformation methods do not describe the whole story; DNA must enter
the cell, the nucleus and fi nally integrate the genome, if required also at predetermined
positions. By including associated methods and tools as cell
fusion, repetitive elements, automation, analysis, markers, and vectors this
volume refl ects the many relevant elements at hand for the modern fungal
researcher.