Micro-organisms are the ultimate recycling agents, thanks to their unrivalled catabolic activities and genetic plasticity. Indeed, microorganisms are critical to maintaining the global cycles of different elements and in many instances are the only organisms capable of breaking down complex organic compounds, including environmental pollutants. The current research focuses on the genomics of Rhodococcus sp. RHA1, to understand the physiological basis for this bacterium’s exceptional ability to break down PCBs and its adaptation to environmental stresses. Using a combination of whole genome sequencing, proteomic, microarray and gene disruption approaches, the research team is reconstructing metabolic and regulatory pathways. This research will contribute to the development of natural and efficient industrial applications such as environmental cleanup (bioremediation) and the production of fine chemicals (biotransformation).
This project involves collaborations with researchers from Japan, Germany, England and the United States.
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