High Production of Amorpha-4,11-Diene in E. coli
Author Information
Author(s): Tsuruta Hiroko, Paddon Christopher J., Eng Diana, Lenihan Jacob R., Horning Tizita, Anthony Larry C., Regentin Rika, Keasling Jay D., Renninger Neil S., Newman Jack D.
Primary Institution: Amyris Biotechnologies, Emeryville, California, United States of America
Hypothesis
Can E. coli be engineered to produce high levels of amorpha-4,11-diene, a precursor to artemisinin?
Conclusion
The study achieved over 25 g/L of amorpha-4,11-diene production through fermentation, providing a potential alternative source for artemisinin.
Supporting Evidence
- Production of amorpha-4,11-diene was increased by replacing yeast genes with those from Staphylococcus aureus.
- Optimizing nitrogen delivery in the fermentation process led to higher yields.
- The engineered E. coli consistently produced over 25 g/L of amorpha-4,11-diene.
Takeaway
Scientists made a special type of bacteria that can make a lot of a medicine used to treat malaria, which is usually hard to get.
Methodology
The researchers improved a fermentation process and engineered E. coli to enhance the production of amorpha-4,11-diene by optimizing nutrient delivery and replacing certain genes.
Limitations
The study may not account for all variables in large-scale production and the need for further optimization for commercial viability.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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