Biomedical Engineering Reference
In-Depth Information
Figure2.2
Lipids
the genetic capability, for a metabolic route even though it is not 'switched
on'. This is the basis for the description of 'latent pathways' which suggests
the availability of a route able to be activated when the need arises, such as
challenge from a novel chemical in the environment. Additionally, there is huge
potential for uptake and exchange of genetic information as discussed earlier in
this chapter. It is the enormous range of metabolic capability which is harnessed
in environmental biotechnology.
The basis of this discipline is about ensuring that suitable organisms are present
which have the capability to perform the task required of them. This demands
the provision of optimal conditions for growth, thus maximising degradation or
removal of the contaminant. Linked to many of the catalytic steps in the metabolic
pathway are reactions which release sufficient energy to allow the synthesis of
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