Conversion
Challenge
Before fuel can be produced, sugars and enzymes must be combined and transported into the cell.
Approach
Our researchers use high-throughput screening to identify and produce optimal enzymes and transporters.
Challenge
Generating fuels from sugars is extremely energy intensive.
Approach
Our researchers are working to understand and manipulate anaerobic metabolic pathways so that we may achieve efficiencies that will make this conversion more economical.
Challenge
During biomass processing, compounds that are toxic to microbes and enzymes are released.
Approach
We are working to identify robust catalysts that can function in toxic environments.
HIGHLIGHTS
- By combining gene expression and metabolism data with in vivo testing, researchers have developed computational models that accurately predict how metabolism will change in response to particular mutations. This allows rational design of new microbes with improved fuel synthesis properties.
- GLBRC experts have increased yeast’s appetite for xylose, which is the second most abundant sugar in plant biomass. By encouraging these microbial powerhouses to consume a larger share of the available plant sugars, researchers could significantly increase the amount and speed with which biomass can be used to produce biofuels.
