The Use of Microorganisms in Biotechnological Industries

Microorganisms in Biotechnology

Microorganisms, primarily bacteria and fungi, are fundamental to biotechnology, used in a variety of sectors including healthcare, agriculture and the environment. They are utilised due to certain advantageous properties they possess including their rapid growth rates and ability to be genetically manipulated.

Production of Antibiotics

The widely used antibiotic penicillin is produced by the fungus Penicillium chrysogenum.
The bacteria Streptomyces, due to its ability to produce over two-thirds of naturally derived antibiotics, is being extensively researched for new antibiotic discovery.

Bioremediation

Certain bacteria and fungi can degrade pollutants in the environment, in a process known as bioremediation.
This process includes the removal of contaminants in water and soil, the detoxification of hazardous substances like oil spills, and the treatment of industrial wastewater.

Food and Beverage Industries

The fermentation process in which yeast converts sugars into alcohol is fundamental to the production of beer and wine.
Bacteria play key roles in the production of a variety of dairy products such as cheese, yoghurt and buttermilk.
Some types of fungi are used in baking, for the leavening of bread.

Biofuel Production

Certain types of bacteria and algae can convert sunlight into biofuels through photosynthesis.
Yeast can ferment plant sugars to produce bioethanol, a renewable fuel source.

Genetic Engineering

Bacteria such as Escherichia coli are commonly used in molecular biology, often genetically modified to produce proteins for research or therapeutic use.
The process of creating insulin, a hormone used to treat diabetes, involves inserting the insulin gene into a bacterium and allowing it to produce the hormone.

Pesticides and Biofertilizers

Certain strains of bacteria, such as Bacillus thuringiensis, produce toxins that can be used as biopesticides, reducing the need for chemical alternatives.
Microorganisms can also improve soil fertility and promote plant growth, reducing the need for man-made fertilisers.