Redesigning Metabolic Circuits for Speciality Chemical Production

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Certain molecules used within industrially manufactured products not only have to be highly purified but also be of a specific structural composition. ‘Chiral’ molecules exist in two forms (scientifically called enantiomers and referred to as the S or R form) that are mirror images of one another and although the same by atomic composition are not always the same by biological activity. Producing pure quantities of one form is often expensive and this prevents new innovative products from reaching the market. Current production methods can also involve harsh chemical treatments to separate mixtures which may result in unwanted by-products such as toxic heavy metals. This project tackles these issues by targeting high value chiral molecules in their R forms using a biological route of microbial fermentation. These molecules can be used in diverse applications such as antibiotics, pharmaceuticals, nutraceuticals and have non-medical uses such as liquid crystal displays.