Current strategies in the search for bioactive microbial metabolites

New microbial metabolite screening currently requires an interdisciplinary team consisting of microbial ecologists, geneticists, molecular biologists, biochemists, microbial physiologists, fermentation technologists and chemists. The increasing difficulty in discovering new compounds of clinical potential can only be overcome by maximising the input of the above disciplines. Possible strategies for constructing a genetically diverse ‘bank’ of microorganisms, including naturally occurring and genetically manipulated strains, are reviewed. Also, the design of environmental conditions optimal for the over‐production of metabolites and the types of screens that are selective for compounds of potential utility are discussed. The value of target‐selective screen techniques is illustrated with experiences gained in the search for new β‐lactams.