Comparative analysis of insect gut symbionts for compositionfunction relationships and biofuel application potential
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Background: Insect gut symbionts are essential for biomass degradation, nutrient synthesis and toxin detoxification. We carried out comparative analysis of gut symbionts from four insect species to investigate the adaptation to different food types and to evaluate the potential for biofuel applications. Results: The study revealed significant variation of insect gut symbiont composition as a function to adapt to different food types. The composition-function relationship has been discussed from different perspectives, including biomass utilization and nutrient biosynthesis. The existence of species such as Klebsiella oxytoca and the capacity for these species to produce unique biomass degradation enzymes indicated that grasshopper and woodborer gut systems may be enriched resources for biofuel applications. For functional verification and concept validation, we have cloned and characterized a -glucosidase from K. oxytoca in the grasshopper gut system. Conclusion: The research suggested that different insect gut systems can be good resources for biocatalyst and microbial strain discovery for bioenergy applications. 2011 Future Science Ltd.
