Metagenomics
Metagenomics is an advanced genomics that studies the nucleotide sequences in the mixed DNA or RNA molecules extracted from the cells of various organisms in environmental samples, their identification, interactions between organisms, etc. It is a modern way of studying the diversity of microorganisms present in an ecosystem, their abundance, gene expression, detection of pathogens, detection of various non-pathogenic diseases including cancer, new gene discovery, biodiversity exploration, soil health analysis, the discovery of new species, and even discovery of new biochemicals such as the beneficial enzymes.
Metagenomics is often used to examine a specific population of microbes commonly found in soil, water, or human skin. The gene structure of microorganisms can be known using this method. This makes it possible to access libraries. At first, the desired samples are collected, required DNA materials are extracted, cloned in suitable vectors, and the clone is transferred into E coli cells. This transformed data is then examined for physiological, metabolic, and genetic characteristics for generating new genetic information. The newly developed metagenomics data are used for various purposes.
Theoretically, the genes in the DNA sequences of every organism of a microbial population are stored in a metagenomics database. These genes, however, often fail to express properly in the respective host system. Metagenomics has many applications, from the medical sector to the environmental sector, from food safety to industrial waste. It can also be used to detect infections. Biodiversity in environmental samples can be learned by metagenomics, which will also help in industrial research. Also, metagenomics is useful for identifying various commercial biocatalysts, such as laccases, esterases, and nitrile hydratases.
Metagenomics acts as a tool for bioremediation. Metagenomics study helps identify the presence of different microorganisms and their respective roles in polluted environments. These bacteria provide insights into nature's most efficient way to degrade harmful pollutants. Metagenomics can discover new genes to help us understand the environment and solve health problems.
The beneficial microorganisms in the gut are considered the second brain of humans. Metagenomics is an essential tool in studying the gut microbiome and its function. Analysis of metagenomics sequence data is done through bioinformatics. [Md. Tofazzal Islam]
