Metagenomic Approaches for Understanding New Concepts in Microbial Science

Author(s)

Alves, Luana de Fatima ; Westmann, Caua Antunes ; Lovate, Gabriel Lencioni ; Viana de Siqueira, Guilherme Marcelino ; Borelli, Tiago Cabral ; Guazzaroni, Maria-Eugenia

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF GENOMICS; v. 2018, p. 15-pg., 2018-01-01.

Abstract

Over the past thirty years, since the dawn of metagenomic studies, a completely new (micro) universe was revealed, with the potential to have profound impacts on many aspects of the society. Remarkably, the study of human microbiome provided a new perspective on a myriad of human traits previously regarded as solely (epi-) genetically encoded, such as disease susceptibility, immunological response, and social and nutritional behaviors. In this context, metagenomics has established a powerful framework for understanding the intricate connections between human societies and microbial communities, ultimately allowing for the optimization of both human health and productivity. Thus, we have shifted from the old concept of microbes as harmful organisms to a broader panorama, in which the signal of the relationship between humans and microbes is flexible and directly dependent on our own decisions and practices. In parallel, metagenomics has also been playing a major role in the prospection of "hidden" genetic features and the development of biotechnological applications, through the discovery of novel genes, enzymes, pathways, and bioactive molecules with completely new or improved biochemical functions. Therefore, this review highlights the major milestones over the last three decades of metagenomics, providing insights into both its potentialities and current challenges. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 17/20818-9 - Characterisation of new metagenomics regulatory elements
• Grantee: Tiago Cabral Borelli
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• FAPESP's process: 16/05472-6 - Synthetic biology approaches to engineer/mine novel regulatory elements in bacteria
• Grantee: Cauã Antunes Westmann
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Master
• FAPESP's process: 16/06323-4 - New tools for improving metagenomic cellulase screenings
• Grantee: Luana de Fátima Alves
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Doctorate
• FAPESP's process: 15/04309-1 - Novel approaches to improve functional screening of biocatalysts in metagenomic libraries
• Grantee: María Eugenia Guazzaroni
• Support Opportunities: Research Grants - Young Investigators Grants