Synthetic Biology in Environmental Sciences
Synthetic Biology is an innovative field that combines biology and engineering to design and construct new biological parts, devices, and systems. In Environmental Sciences, synthetic biology offers groundbreaking solutions to manage environmental challenges such as pollution, waste management, and sustainable resource production. By leveraging the power of engineered biological systems, we can develop eco-friendly alternatives to traditional industrial processes and create novel ways to protect and restore our environment.
Our company specializes in high-quality synthetic biology products that play a vital role in environmental applications. Our innovative products, including succinic acid, 1,3-propanediol, L-valine, L-arginine, L-malic acid and 5-aminolevulinic acid, provide sustainable solutions and advanced biotechnology applications.
Alternative Strategies for Microbial Remediation of Pollutants via Synthetic Biology (Shweta Jaiswal and Pratyoosh Shukla, 2020)
Product Applications
| Products | Applications | Pathways/Technologies |
|---|---|---|
| Succinic acid | Succinic acid is a versatile platform chemical used in the production of biodegradable plastics. Through microbial fermentation, succinic acid can be sustainably produced, reducing the reliance on petroleum-based materials and decreasing plastic pollution. | Microbial Fermentation: Utilizes engineered microorganisms to convert renewable biomass into succinic acid efficiently. This process significantly reduces greenhouse gas emissions compared to traditional petrochemical methods. Metabolic Engineering: Involves the modification of microbial metabolic pathways to enhance the production yield of succinic acid, optimizing strain performance and process efficiency. |
| 1,3-Propanediol | 1,3-Propanediol is an important building block for bio-based polymers. It is produced via microbial fermentation and used in making environmentally friendly plastics and fibers, contributing to the reduction of non-biodegradable waste. | Bio-based Synthesis: Employs microorganisms that can naturally produce 1,3-propanediol from renewable resources such as corn sugar, offering a sustainable alternative to petroleum-based processes. Fermentation: Implements advanced fermentation techniques to maximize 1,3-propanediol yield and purity, ensuring cost-effective and environmentally friendly production. |
| L-Valine | L-Valine is an essential amino acid used in various environmental applications, including bio-remediation. Engineered microbes that utilize L-Valine can help in breaking down pollutants and restoring contaminated environments. | Metabolic Engineering: Enhances the biosynthetic pathways in microorganisms to produce higher concentrations of L-valine, crucial for plant and animal nutrition. Fermentation: Uses industrial-scale fermentation processes to produce L-valine sustainably, providing a consistent and high-quality amino acid for agricultural applications. |
| L-Arginine | L-Arginine plays a significant role in microbial metabolism and can be utilized in bio-remediation strategies. It is also used in the production of bio-based fertilizers, promoting sustainable agriculture practices. | Enzymatic Conversion: Involves the use of specific enzymes to convert precursor molecules into L-arginine, improving the efficiency and yield of production. Microbial Production: Leverages genetically modified microorganisms to produce L-arginine from renewable resources, supporting eco-friendly agricultural and bioremediation practices. |
| L-Malic Acid | L-Malic acid is used in the bioremediation of heavy metals and other contaminants. It serves as a chelating agent, helping microorganisms to immobilize and detoxify harmful substances in polluted environments. | Bio-catalysis: Utilizes natural catalysts, such as enzymes or whole cells, to facilitate the conversion of substrates into L-malic acid, ensuring a green and sustainable production process. Renewable Feedstocks: Involves sourcing raw materials from renewable biomass, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and decreasing the environmental footprint of L-malic acid production. |
| 5-Aminolevulinic Acid | 5-Aminolevulinic acid is a natural herbicide and plant growth regulator. It offers an eco-friendly alternative to chemical herbicides, promoting sustainable weed control and enhancing plant health without harming the environment. | Metabolic Pathways: Explores and manipulates the metabolic routes in microorganisms to enhance the production of 5-aminolevulinic acid, crucial for plant growth and health. Synthetic Routes: Employs synthetic biology techniques to construct and optimize artificial biosynthetic pathways, increasing the efficiency and scalability of 5-aminolevulinic acid production for agricultural and medical applications. |
Case Study
Plastic pollution has underscored the need for synthetic bioplastics like polybutylene succinate (PBS), derived from succinic acid. Environmental concerns and dwindling fossil fuels have driven interest in biotechnological routes for succinic acid production through fermentation. Oil palm biomass emerges as a potential, cost-effective alternative to pure carbon sources due to its abundance and high lignocellulosic content. This case explores the pretreatment and hydrolysis of oil palm biomass, the production of bioplastics from it, and the challenges in producing succinic acid from this biomass.
PBS, a biodegradable polyester from renewable resources, boasts excellent mechanical properties and melt processability, suitable for injection molding, extrusion, and blow molding. With a melting point of about 115°C and a heat distortion temperature around 97°C, PBS degrades into low molecular weight polymers when exposed to water. It is synthesized by condensing succinic acid and 1,4-butanediol (BDO), which can be sourced from petroleum or bacterial fermentation.
The production of PBS involves two main steps: esterification of succinic acid and BDO to form oligomers, followed by polycondensation to create high-molecular-weight PBS. This process typically occurs in a reactor with a mechanical stirrer, inert gas inlet, and distillation column, initially heated to 160–190°C for esterification and then at 220–240°C under vacuum for polycondensation. PBS's properties can be enhanced through copolymerization or nanofiller incorporation, and it has a biodegradation rate that increases with temperature, making it suitable for various applications.
Flowchart of PBS synthesis via bio- or fossil-based sources (Hikmah Bajunaid Hariz, et al., 2023)
FAQs
Below, we've compiled some frequently asked questions and answers about our products used in environmental Sciences. If you don't find the answer you're looking for, please feel free to contact us.
A: Orders can be placed through our website, by contacting our sales team via email or phone. Please visit our website for detailed instructions and contact information.
A: Yes, storage requirements vary by product. For example, 1,3-Propanediol should be stored in a cool, dry place, while some products like 5-Aminolevulinic Acid might require refrigeration. Specific storage instructions are provided on the product labels.
A: Yes, we offer custom formulation services to meet specific customer requirements. Please provide us with your specifications, and our R&D team will work with you to develop a tailored solution.
A: We offer various shipping options, including standard ground shipping, expedited shipping, and freight services for bulk orders. International shipping is also available. Please contact our logistics team to discuss the best shipping option for your needs.
A: We implement sustainable manufacturing practices, including energy-efficient processes, waste reduction, and the use of renewable resources. Our commitment to sustainability ensures minimal environmental impact during production.
A: These products can be used in a variety of environmental science applications, including bioremediation, bio-based plastic production, agricultural enhancement, and environmental monitoring. Each product has specific uses based on its properties.
A: We follow strict safety protocols for handling and transporting our products, including appropriate packaging, labeling, and adherence to transportation regulations.
A: Yes, we ship our products internationally. However, certain countries may have import restrictions or require specific documentation. Please contact our international sales team for details on shipping to your location.
Reference
- Hariz HB, et al. Succinic Acid Production from Oil Palm Biomass: A Prospective Plastic Pollution Solution. Fermentation. 2023; 9(1):46.