Choice Review

The microbial production of commercially important chemicals and drugs dates back to prehistoric times. However, major advances in science over the past 150 years have led to precise ways of producing useful microbial compounds. Biotechnology techniques have permitted the greatest growth in microbiology applications. This book is a nontechnical, thorough compilation of current microbial biotechnology techniques and strategies. Edited by Kun (National Univ. of Singapore), it features chapters by authorities in the field. The book begins with several chapters detailing the general principles of microbial biotechnology. Genetics and protein chemistry are briefly discussed. Material follows on food production strategies using microbes and microbial secretions. An agricultural microbiology section discusses microbial applications in livestock production and transgenic crops. A section on medical microbiology covers clinical diagnosis and disease treatment using microbial products. The book considers environmental microbiology and the use of microbes to produce alternative energy, with current references to original research and a chapter on patenting microorganisms. ^BSumming Up: Recommended. General readers; lower-level undergraduates through graduate students; professionals and practitioners. B. R. Shmaefsky Kingwood College