Cyanobacteria Molecular Biology, Genomics and Evolution

Cyanobacteria are a fascinating and versatile group of bacteria of immense biological importance. Thought to be ancient colonizers of the earth, these bacteria are the photosynthetic ancestors of chloroplasts in eukaryotes such as plants and algae. In addition they can fix nitrogen, survive in very hostile environments, can be symbiotic, have circadian rhythms, exhibit gliding mobility, and can differentiate into specialized cell types called heterocysts. This makes them ideal model systems for studying fundamental processes such as nitrogen fixation and photosynthesis. In addition cyanobacteria produce an array of bioactive compounds, some of which could become novel anti-microbial agents, anti-cancer drugs, UV protectants etc. The amazing versatility of cyanobacteria has attracted huge scientific interest in recent years. Given that 24 genome sequences have been completed and many more projects are currently under way, the point has been reached where there is an urgent need to summarize and review the current molecular biology, genomics, and evolution of these important organisms.Herrero, Antonia is the author of 'Cyanobacteria Molecular Biology, Genomics and Evolution', published 2008 under ISBN 9781904455158 and ISBN 1904455158.