Abstract

The techniques involved in isolation and manipulation of genes from several microbes have become routine. Genes are cloned into plasmid or phage-based vectors and introduced into the microbe of choice. The number of vectors that have been engineered is on the increase for several systems. In addition, construction of gene libraries and screening are also performed by small biotechnology companies. Various computational tools have become essential. The number of nucleotide and protein databases is rapidly increasing. Many software packages are available to access, manipulate, and analyze sequences. Most of the reagents needed for gene manipulation such as oligonucleotides, peptides, vectors, and antibodies are commercially available. Genetically engineered microbes are used to produce several commercial products. The number of products is likely to increase. They include therapeutics, bulk enzymes, antibiotics, chemicals, and polymer products.