Innovative Light-Driven Enzymatic Biosystem for Th. newswise

Newswise – Terpenoids, such as α-farnesene, are natural compounds that are widely used in flavoring agents, fragrances, and even biofuels. Traditionally, α-farnesine is extracted from plants, and hence their production may suffer from low yields and poor purity, rendering it unable to meet the criteria for human use. Chemical synthesis methods can address the above issues but can be challenging and harmful to the environment. Alternative methods using engineered microbes such as cyanobacteria and Escherichia coli Provide promising ways to produce α-farnesene from renewable sources and address these challenges.

In this regard, a group of researchers led by Professor Zhiguang Zhu of Tianjin University of Science and Technology and the Chinese Academy of Sciences has developed an innovative way to produce α-farnesene using methanol and light. their conclusions Study (doi: 10.34133/bdr.0039) Published on June 21, 2024 biodesign research And promises to be an environmentally friendly and efficient process of α-farnesene production compared to traditional methods.

The key to this innovative method lies in the use of thylakoid membranes, which are components of plant cells that play a vital role in photosynthesis and creating energy. Using these natural membranes, the researchers were able to create a system that mimics the way plants convert light energy into chemical energy, but produces α-farnesene instead.

,Our study presents a route for the synthesis of α-farnesene based on an in vitro enzyme cascade reaction using methanol as a cheap and renewable carbon 1 (C1) substrate.“, explains Professor Zhu

The new process involves a series of 13 enzyme-driven reactions divided into two modules integrated with the thylakoid membrane as a light-powered engine to convert methanol into α-farnesene. These membranes help regenerate adenosine triphosphate and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate hydrogen, which are energy molecules essential for enzymatic reactions. The use of light not only makes the process more sustainable but also more efficient.

The developed method not only utilizes renewable resources but also demonstrates the potential for scalable industrial applications. By optimizing the concentrations of enzymes, thylakoid membranes, and other cofactors, the researchers were able to obtain significant yields of α-farnesene, making this method a viable alternative to current production technologies. Additionally, the robustness of the system under various lighting conditions underlined its adaptability.

,This study may provide a promising strategy to develop light-driven in vitro biosynthetic platforms to produce more natural compounds synthesized from C1 substrates.,” Professor Zhu continues, “This direction suggests future possibilities for C1 utilization and engineering of photosynthetic cell factories for different types of terpenes.,

Future modifications will aim to increase the efficiency and yield of terpenoid production, marking a significant advancement in sustainable industrial practices. By harnessing the power of light and utilizing renewable resources, this research expands the possibilities for producing valuable natural compounds in a way that is both environmentally friendly and economically viable.

Furthermore, this study highlights the potential of innovative scientific approaches to address practical challenges, emphasizing the importance of sustainability in industrial processes. As industries increasingly look for green alternatives, such methods become important to reduce environmental impact and promote sustainable development while setting a precedent for future innovations in natural compound synthesis .

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Reference

DOI

10.34133/bdr.0039

original source url

https://spj.science.org/doi/abs/10.34133/bdr.0039

About this biodesign research

biodesign research is dedicated to the exchange of information in the interdisciplinary field of biosystems design. Its unique mission is to pave the way towards predictable afresh The design and evaluation of engineered or repurposed living organisms using rational or automated methods to address global challenges in health, agriculture, and the environment.