Microbial Biotransformation: From Conventional to Advance Technological Insights

Metabolism or biotransformation is the enzymatic alteration of natural and chemically synthesized products, into a substance having a specifically modified structure. The catalytic potential of a major range of microorganisms namely bacteria and fungi can be used as a channel to break down compounds with perplexing structures and compositions to derive profitable products via biosynthesis. Microbial biotransformation also known as microbial biotechnology is acquiring emphasis and broadly exercised to produce/synthesize metabolites in large portions with exceeding specificity. To carry out a broad range of chemical reactions, which include hydrolysis, oxidation, condensation, reduction, isomerization, synthesis of chiral compounds, construction of new C–C bonds, and reversal of hydrolytic reactions, microorganisms have been utilized in diverse biotransformation. In biotransformation, the conversion reactions have to be carried out in a sterile environment; and the reactions are to be monitored chromatographically or spectroscopically to prevent the creation of defective conversion products. Microbial biotransformation has been designed and regarded as a convincing means for the bioconversion of steroids, non-steroidal compounds, and pesticides for the bioremediation of an extensive collection of chemicals, including pharmaceuticals, radionuclides, hydrocarbons (such as oil), and polychlorinated biphenyls. Upgrading the genetic and metabolic engineering techniques will eventually heighten the research in the field of microbial transformations. This chapter expounds on the history, basic concept of bioconversion reactions, practical aspects, methodologies, and applications of microbial biotransformation.