Objective
Microbial diversity is a key element in the search to new, valuable compounds such as enzymes with novel properties for industrial applications or which may lead to new or modified antimicrobials. Only a limited number of microorganisms from the environment can be cultured. Therefore, this project will exploit the vast genetic potential of the unexploited Met genome in a culture-independent process using functional genomic, PCR-based screens and in silicon gene mining. The deification of novel genes coding for plant cell wall degrading enzymes and antimicrobials will be emphasized. Their expression potential in industrially important hosts to give economically relevant yields will be investigated. Altogether, the project will combine the enormous potential of biodiversity with cutting edge screening technology, molecular biology and bio informatics to develop products with high biotechnological or pharmaceutical value.