32^nd Asia Pacific Biotechnology Congress

Microbiology

Microbiology is the scientific study of microorganisms, too small to see with the naked eye and include bacteria, algae, protozoa, and fungi, as well as acellular beings, such as viruses, virions and prions. Microbes find use in numerous beneficial processes such as industrial fermentation, including the production of vinegar, alcohol, & dairy products and industrially important substances like antibiotics and amino acids. Microorganisms act as vehicles or vectors to transfer DNA to complex organisms such as plants and animals. Genetically engineered microorganisms are also being used to produce biotechnologically important enzymes such as Taq DNA polymerase and reporter genes. Microorganisms are also used in the production of a variety of biopolymers, such as polysaccharides, polyesters, and polyamides. Microorganisms are instrumental in biodegradation and bioremediation of domestic, agricultural and industrial wastes. Symbiotic microorganisms grant health benefits to their human or animal hosts including help in digestion, producing beneficial co-enzymes and vitamins and amino acids, and competing with and suppressing pathogenic microorganisms.