3 Review(s)

Microbial Diversity: Current Perspectives and Potential Applications is woven around the recent global perceptions of microbial diversity. Diverse perspectives are discussed in the context of ecosystem dynamics, taking into consideration environments that are rather unique to microorganisms. Considerable focus is placed on the role that microorganisms play in sustainable production systems. The microbe-plant interaction dynamic is highlighted in the discussion of mycorrhizal partners, on which depends not only the plant community structure but also abatement of abiotic and biotic stresses. Another mutualist, rhizobia, gets its due coverage whereas the plant disease component carries examples from both the perspective of fungal and viral diseases. Considerable emphasis is placed on a discussion of the environmental issues such as the approaches that will lead to newer bioremediation technologies. No discussion of microbial diversity is complete without their implications in animal and human health. Discussed in this context are L-arginases in cancer therapy, as well as bioactives from cyanobacteria. Genomics and pathogenicity of two groups of viruses, viz., blue tongue and flaviviruses, is highlighted whereas keratinophilic fungal forms are discussed in the context of dermatophytic infections. This volume also carries a fair number of articles on commercial microbiology.