Module 1: Microbial Biotechnology of Prokaryotes

Module’s structure
The module comprises 12 units thematically unified in 4 parts. It is developed for advanced level of education.

Learning goals
The module is foreseen to provide basic knowledge about gene transfer mechanisms in bacteria and regulation of gene expression. It equips trainees with contemporary knowledge about prokaryotes’ biodiversity; strategies for discovery of bioactive microbial substances and approaches for strain improvement. The module summarizes information about bioactive metabolites from prokaryotes – insecticides, bacteriocins of lactic acid bacteria, peptides and polysaccharides and provides data about production of microbial enzymes, amino acids and antibiotics. It also discusses innovation aspects in application of lactic acid bacteria in biotechnology.

Previous knowledge required
As a prerequisite basic knowledge in general microbiology, general biochemistry, physiology and metabolism of microorganisms, bacterial taxonomy, fundamentals of microbial genetics and cell biology are required. Additionally knowledge in fundamentals of industrial microbiology, food microbiology, and microbial ecology are necessary for completion of this module.

Module’s content
Part 1 describes the gene transfer mechanisms in bacteria, DNA reparation systems and regulation of gene expression.
Part 2 provides information about bacterial diversity and its value as a source of biotechnological application. The main strategies for discovery of bioactive metabolites from prokaryotes as well as the fundamental genetic approaches to strain improvement are discussed.
Part 3 deals with the ability of prokaryotes to synthesize metabolites active against pest insects; bacteriocins synthesized by lactic acid bacteria; peptides with various biological activities, and microbial polysaccharides for food- and non-food usage.
Part 4 describes the main steps in the production of bacterial enzymes, including screening, strain and medium improvement. Advantages of immobilization methods in laboratory and large-scale production of enzymes are commented and new research topics in enzyme biotechnology are discussed. This part deals also with regulatory mechanisms of amino acid biosynthesis and their industrial overproduction. Finally, it focuses on antibiotics of actinomycetes origin with special emphasizes on main producers, basic steps in industrial manufacture, and different classifications.
Part 5 presents data about innovation aspects in application of lactic acid bacteria as probiotics and for production of nutraceuticals.

Advanced Level