The Genus Rhodococcus as a source of novel bioactive substances: A review

Abstract

Actinobacteria were well-known as bioactive compounds producers. This phylum comprises the most widely distributed group of microorganisms in nature. The actinomycete genus Rhodococcus has one of the largest known bacterial genomes, so it forms an enormous reservoir of secondary metabolites and enzymes. In this review, estimation is made on the present state of research on the genus Rhodococcus and its perspectives. The highlights include the production of metabolites such as antibacterial, antifungal, anti-trypanosomal, anticancer, siderophores, pigments, enzymes and enzyme inhibitors, these diverse bioactivities are mediated by several classes of compounds including polyketides, fatty acids, alkaloids, peptides, flavonoids, aminoglycosides and terpenes by Actinomycetes Rhodococcus genus and their application in industry.