In a groundbreaking study published in ‘Biotechnology for Biofuels and Bioproducts’, researchers from the Manchester Institute of Biotechnology have unlocked a significant advancement in the production of citramalate using the cyanobacterium Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803. This research not only enhances our understanding of carbon fixation but also paves the way for more sustainable industrial processes, particularly in the production of renewable materials.
Cyanobacteria have long been touted as a promising solution for converting carbon dioxide into valuable products, but their slow growth and limited carbon partitioning have hindered their commercial viability. The team, led by Matthew Faulkner, has tackled these challenges head-on. “By optimizing process parameters, we managed to achieve a remarkable 23-fold increase in citramalate production,” Faulkner stated. This increase is significant, as citramalate serves as a precursor for methyl methacrylate, a key component in products like Perspex and Plexiglas, which are widely used in various industries.
The researchers employed a design of experiment approach to fine-tune the conditions under which Synechocystis operates, resulting in citramalate titres of 6.35 g/L at a 2-L scale and 3.96 g/L at a 5-L scale. The drop in productivity at larger scales was attributed to challenges in light delivery, highlighting the complexities of scaling up biotechnological processes. “Understanding the factors that influence carbon partitioning is crucial for optimizing not just citramalate production but also other valuable bioproducts,” Faulkner explained.
This research holds immense commercial potential. With increasing demand for sustainable materials, the ability to convert CO2 into commercially viable products could significantly impact the energy sector and beyond. The findings suggest that optimizing carbon fixation rates and product yields could lead to a more circular bioeconomy, where waste carbon is transformed into valuable resources.
As industries strive to reduce their carbon footprints, innovations like those presented by Faulkner and his team could be game-changers. The ability to harness cyanobacteria for efficient carbon capture and conversion may soon become a cornerstone of sustainable manufacturing practices.
For those interested in exploring this research further, you can find more information about the Manchester Institute of Biotechnology and its initiatives at Manchester Institute of Biotechnology.
