AN ARMY SWISS KNIFE IN BIOTECHNOLOGY (Bacillus subtilis)

 

Bacillus subtilis, alongside Escherichia coli, stands as one of the most extensively researched and comprehensively understood organisms, serving as a quintessential model for a myriad of pivotal pathogens. Renowned for its capacity to generate heat-resistant spores capable of germination over prolonged periods, B. subtilis has captivated scientific interest. 

Notably, its genetic competence, characterized by active uptake of exogenous DNA, renders B. subtilis highly amenable to genetic manipulation and investigative pursuits. Being among the earliest organisms to have its genome sequenced, B. subtilis has undergone a breadth of genome- and proteome-wide investigations, yielding crucial insights into diverse facets of its biology. 

Moreover, owing to its proficiency in secreting copious amounts of proteins and synthesizing a broad spectrum of commercially valuable compounds, B. subtilis has emerged as a principal cornerstone in biotechnological endeavors. Within this discourse, we undertake a comprehensive examination of pivotal advancements in B. subtilis research, with a particular emphasis on its cellular biology, biotechnological applications, and practical utilities, ranging from vitamin synthesis to the restoration of concrete structures. 

The intricate developmental programs of B. subtilis, coupled with the availability of sophisticated genetic manipulation tools, position it at the vanguard of elucidating novel biological paradigms and enriching our comprehension of bacterial cellular organization.

REFERENCE :

Stülke J, Grüppen A, Bramkamp M, Pelzer S. 2023. Bacillus subtilis, a Swiss Army Knife in Science and Biotechnology. J Bacteriol 205:e00102-23.