This volume is the first comprehensive compilation of methods for the assay and purification of enzymes involved in the utilization of reduced one-carbon compounds and higher hydrocarbons. In the last decade there has been an explosion of interest in the organisms that grow on one-carbon compounds and in those that grow on higher hydrocarbons. This is due to the commercial interest in the unique enzymes involved in these specialty metabolic pathways and to a growing understanding of the important role these organisms play in carbon cycling in nature. More recent interest in the use of these organisms and their enzymes for detoxification of hazardous waste has once again put the spotlight on these unique microorganisms. This volume will prove to be a valuable source for researchers in academia, government, and industry alike.

The 8th International Symposium on Microbial Growth on C1 Compounds was held at the Bahia Resort Hotel, San Diego, CA, 27 August-1 September, 1995. A total of 160 participants from 18 countries were registered. Eight Scientific Sessions were held in which 45 papers were presented, and 114 posters were displayed and discussed in 3 separate poster sessions. The Symposium covered a broad range of topics, including acetogenesis, methanogenesis, CO2 fixation, lithoautotrophy, carboxidotrophy, methylotrophy and methanotrophy. The theme of the Symposium was mechanistic, and under this rubric the physiology, biochemistry, molecular biology, and both applied and environmental aspects of microbial growth on C1 compounds were addressed. This Symposium Volume contains 46 chapters, including the text of an Opening Address delivered at the Symposium by J.R. Quayle. This chapter elegantly presents an historical perspective on the past 7 Symposia, in the context of major breakthroughs in the field and of what is termed giant' topics. The reader will be pleased to see that the tradition of the past Symposia Volumes is upheld, and that both familiar and new giant' topics are covered. This Volume presents a cutting edge view of the broad field of microbial one-carbon metabolism, and provides a valuable resource for researcher and student alike.