The site also contains an extensive list of almost 100 Internet resources. Future additions to the database will include additional mirror sites, fold prediction for its sequenced enzymes, closer ties to genome and microbial strain databases, and the prediction of biodegradation pathways for compounds not contained in the database. Microbes that devour or otherwise help break down exotic chemicals are cleaning up the environment, spawning new technologies, and deepening our understanding of microbial life. The site focuses on the reactions that begin to break down compounds not commonly found in nature, for example, those involving naphthalene , the stuff of mothballs. For information on the more common metabolic pathways that complete the breakdown, the site links to databases such as the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes .
All data display their pedigrees, and a guided tour helps first-time visitors find their way around.
The site lacks only for style. Instead of focusing on an organism, the starting point of this database is a chemical, like glyphosate or chlorobenzene . Both contain links to more-detailed information about the bacteria, enzymes, and compounds involved. The UM-BBD Search Page is a good place to locate a pathway containing a specific compound or enzyme. A search on a specific microorganism name will pull up pathways in which it is involved, as well as links to Hunting Microbial Information for Bacteria from the World Data Centre for Microorganisms.