Biofuels are currently used as a viable alternative energy source in several countries. Plant-Based Genetic Tools for Biofuels Production explains biotechnological techniques and concepts that are applied to increase biofuel yield from plants and algae. Chapters of the book cover a variety of topics: the basic research techniques (cell suspension, embryogenesis, protoplast fusion), plant genetics (plant DNA mutations, new plant breeding techniques, viral genetic vectors for heterologous gene expression, sub cellular proteomes), genomic resources and bioinformatics tools, plant species with bioenergy and biofuel potential, factors influencing biomass yield, advances in cultivation technologies, fermentation of different substrates for ethanol production, and microalgae biomass technologies. Readers will gain a thorough understanding of modern biofuel production. Plant-Based Genetic Tools for Biofuels Production is a suitable reference for students in biotechnology and bioinformatics programs as well as researchers interested in information about the basics of biofuel production.

Heavy metal pollution represents a global challenge to both public health and environmental sustainability. Any means to reduce heavy metal pollution in the environment is of considerable economic significance. The use of green plants to clean up heavy metal pollution is an environmentally friendly as well as a low-cost approach to the problem. This plant-based biotechnology is commonly known as ‘phytoremediation’. Presently, there is limited application of this technology because useful plants with enhanced heavy metal resistance/tolerance are still needed to assist remediation of environments polluted with heavy metals. A key to improved phytoremediation of heavy metal pollution lies in research seeking for a better understanding of the mechanism(s) of heavy metal resistance/tolerance in plants. This E-book presents a unique treatment of the topics that have never been comprehensively brought together before in a single advanced reference. The volume explores aspects of plant biology that are critical for employing phytoremedation techniques to combat heavy metal contamination such as the specific plant biology, seed biology, plant tissue culture and enzymology. This E-book will be a useful reference to plant biologists, biotechnologists and environmental engineers seeking information about phytoremediation of heavy metals from the environment.

Terpenoids are commercially important chemicals found in essential oils and other natural plant sources. They are used in solving issues that affect agricultural production, making them a key component of sustainable agronomy. Terpenoids: Recent Advances in Extraction, Biochemistry and Biotechnology provides information about the varied use of terpenoids in the control of pests, microbial diseases, ticks, and weeds. Chapters have prioritized terpenoids produced by plants, endophytic fungi, propolis, and geopropolis. The book also provides focused information about the functions of terpenoids in plants, as well as their biosynthetic pathways of production. The reference provides readers with a broad and diverse picture of the applications of terpenoids in plant safety, and creates an awareness of the possibilities for innovative biotechnological approaches for their extraction that make all the difference to agricultural production. Professionals and scholars involved in chemical technology, biotechnology and agriculture will benefit from the information provided in the book. It also serves as a comprehensive update for general readers interested in terpenoids and their current impact on the agricultural industry.

Intensive use of fossil-based energy sources causes significant environmental problems on a global scale. Researchers have been working for several decades to find alternative energy solutions to fossil fuels. Algae are a renewable energy source, with high potential for increasing scarce resources and reducing environmental problems caused by fossil fuel use. Algal Biotechnology for Fuel Applications gives the reader a comprehensive picture of the industrial use of algae for generating power. This book informs readers about the existence of alternative species to the currently used algae species for biofuel production, while also explaining the methods and current concepts in sustainable biofuel production. Key Features - Fifteen chapters covering topics on commercial algae species and algal biofuel production. - Covers anaerobic biotechnology and basic biofuel production from thermal liquefaction - Covers biodiesel production and algal biofuel characterization - Introduces the reader to applied microbial fuel cell technology and algae cultivation methods - Provides concepts about ecological engineering - Covers microalgae culture and biofuel production techniques - Explains the importance of catalysts - Explains the economic evaluation of algae fuel production technology This reference is essential reading for students and academics involved in environmental science, biotechnology, chemical engineering and sustainability education programs. It also serves as a reference for general readers who want to understand the ins and outs of algal biofuel technology.