Streptomyces: Relevance to ecology, medicine and biotechnology [Streptomyceten: Relevanz für Ökologie, Medizin und Biotechnologie]

Abstract

Streptomycetes are differentiated members of actinobacteria with huge abundance in soils, rhizosphere, and marine sediments. In addition to main roles in a free-living style, they are relevant in multiple interactions and specialized symbioses. Their sophisticated enzyme-repertoire is essential to recycle organic matter in nature and to detoxify harmful compounds. The immense gene pool for an amazing repertoire of bioactive compounds is an outstanding source for drugs to combat diseases. © 2016, Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg.