This detailed volume explores experimental laboratory procedures for a wide range of steroid bioconversions. After an overview on the current trends and perspectives, the book continues with sections covering microbial screening and synthetic biology applied to microorganisms able to catabolize sterols, methods on strain characterization, including omics and biochemical analyses, methods of fermentation and biocatalysis for steroids production, as well as a chapter on the medical use of glucocorticoids in cancer patients. Written for the highly successful Methods in Molecular Biology series, chapters include introductions to their respective topics, lists of the necessary materials and reagents, step-by-step and readily reproducible laboratory protocols, and tips on troubleshooting and avoiding known pitfalls.  Authoritative and practical, Microbial Steroids: Methods and Protocols, Second Edition serves as an ideal reference source for laboratory and industrial professionals, as well as for students in a wide array of biological disciplines.