Extracellular Polymeric Substance Production in Rhodococcus: Advances and Perspectives

Abstract

The genus Rhodococcus is relevant for its biosynthetic capabilities and metabolic versatility, resulting in the production of different metabolites to adapt to harsh environmental conditions. Exopolysaccharides are secreted by different members of Rhodococcus and have many biotechnological applications. Their use benefits different industries such as environmental remediation, medicine, pharmaceuticals, and food, among others, that appear in existing literature. This study presents the advances, weaknesses, and future directions in the production of this biopolymer by Rhodococcus. It also provides an overview of their taxonomic distribution within the genus, their composition, structures, yield, and the underexplored genes and possible mechanisms involved in the synthesis of extracellular polymeric substances. By combining past and current research with future directions on production in Rhodococcus, this work aims to present this genus as a serious alternative for obtaining these unique natural polymers.