Synthesis of chemicals by metabolic engineering of microbes.
Metabolic engineering is a powerful tool for the sustainable production of chemicals. Over the years, the exploration of microbial, animal and plant metabolism has generated a wealth of valuable genetic information. The prudent application of this knowledge on cellular metabolism and biochemistry has enabled the construction of novel metabolic pathways that do not exist in nature or enhance existing ones. The hand in hand development of computational technology, protein science and genetic manipulation tools has formed the basis of powerful emerging technologies that make the production of green chemicals and fuels a reality. Microbial production of chemicals is more feasible compared to plant and animal systems, due to simpler genetic make-up and amenable growth rates. Here, we summarize the recent progress in the synthesis of biofuels, value added chemicals, pharmaceuticals and nutraceuticals via metabolic engineering of microbes.
State Key Laboratory of Chemical Resource Engineering, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, 15#, Beisanhuan East Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing 100029, China. yuanqp@mail.buct.edu.cn.
Xinxiao
X
Sun
Xiaolin
X
Shen
Rachit
R
Jain
Yuheng
Y
Lin
Jian
J
Wang
Jing
J
Sun
Jia
J
Wang
Yajun
Y
Yan
Qipeng
Q
Yuan
D001419:Bacteria / Q000378:metabolism*; D056804:Biofuels; D019587:Dietary Supplements; D060847:Metabolic Engineering; D009930:Organic Chemicals / Q000378:metabolism*; D004364:Pharmaceutical Preparations
D056804:Biofuels; D009930:Organic Chemicals; D004364:Pharmaceutical Preparations