Regulation and cloning of microbial chitinase genes

A range of chitinase genes from microorganisms have been cloned and the pot ential uses of these genetically manipulated organisms are being investigat ed by various researchers. Fungi and yeast are better producers of chitinas e than bacteria. Since fungi grow at a slower rate, there have been efforts to clone the fungal chitinase genes into fast-growing bacteria. This revie w gives a brief survey of recent progress in the regulation and cloning of microbial chitinase genes. Emphasis is placed on the post-translational mod ification and localization of the recombinant protein in the host. Various amino acid domains are present in this protein. The mode of catalytic activ ity of the recombinant protein in comparison to the wild-type protein is di scussed in the available literature. The different mechanisms involved in t he regulation of chitinase genes from various microorganisms is discussed b y the researchers. The scope of future research and conclusions yet to be o btained in this particular area are also outlined in this review.