As understanding of the biology of these important organisms and their complex metabolism increases rapidly from year to year, the need for international gatherings such as those in Geneva and Chicago grows also. A decision was therefore made that a third symposium would be held in Trieste, Italy, under the auspices of the University of Milan in 1991. The science of Pseudomonas has reached a maturity that speaks for itself through the papers presented in the previous meetings. The field continues to expand. Molecular biology is having an impact on understanding of metabolic biotransformations in Pseudomonas, its mechanisms of pathogenicity (in both humans and plants), and its use in the exciting world of biotechnology. As research blossoms into new discoveries, we will continue to enjoy this education and human development to further the cause of science and technology worldwide as well as in the United States.
