The genus Pseudomonas represents a large group of medically and envi-
ronmentally important bacteria. Interest in these bacteria is reflected
in the extensive number of publications devoted to original research,
re- views, and books on this subject. In this volume selected areas of
Pseu- domonas research are presented in depth by persons who have been
active in their fields over many years. The extensive reviews presented
are an effort to provide a balanced perspective in a number of areas not
readily available in the current literature. In the style of the
previous Biotechnology Handbooks most of these topics have not been
reviewed at all, and several are also presented from a new direction.
For example, in addition to structural and compositional aspects, the
chapter on lipids provides shifts in lipid parameters that result from
environmental changes. This information will be invaluable to a cross
section of Pseu- domonas researchers in pathogenesis and bioremediation.
The chapters presented include basic aspects of plasmid biology and
carbohydrate metabolism and regulation. A major emphasis is placed on
the Pseudomonas aeruginosa cell surface. Chapters cover lipo-
polysaccharide, capsular polysaccharide and alginate, the outer mem-
brane, transport systems, and the flagellum. Uptake of iron is also
neces- sarily an important portion of the chapter on iron metabolism.
