To the uninitiated, the genus Clostridium is likely more to be
associated with disease than biotechnology. In this volume, we have
sought to remedy this misconception by compiling aseries of chapters
which, together, provide a practically-oriented handbook of the
biotechnologie potential of the genus. Clostridium is a broad grouping
of organisms that together undertake a myriad of biocatalytic reactions.
In the first two chapters, the reader is introduced to this diversity,
both taxonomically and physiologically. In the following chapter, the
current state of genetic analysis of members of the genus is reviewed.
The remaining chapters concentrate on specific, exploit- able aspects of
individual Clostridium species-highlighting their range of unique
capabilities (of potential or recognized industrial value), particu-
larly in the areas of biotransformation, enzymology, and the production
of chemical fuels. Fittingly, the final chapter demonstrates that even
the most toxic of the clostridia can be of therapeutic value. The
contributors to this volume reflect the trans national interest in
Clostridium, and we are indebted to each of them for making this volume
possible. We particularly wish to acknowledge the contributions, both to
this volume and to microbiology in general, of Dr. Elizabeth Cato, who,
sadly, died shortly be fore publication ofthis volume. Finally, we would
like to join the authors in recommending closer and wider consideration
of the attributes and capabilities of this genus.
