Identification and exploitation of biosynthetic pathways from Ascocoryne sarcoides
Lead Research Organisation:
Newcastle University
Department Name: Sch of Biology
Abstract
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Studentship Projects
| Project Reference | Relationship | Related To | Start | End | Student Name |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BB/M017036/1 | 30/09/2015 | 29/09/2015 | |||
| 1695320 | Studentship | BB/M017036/1 | 30/09/2015 | 29/09/2019 | Joshua Loh |
| Description | We have been working to understand the alkane metabolism in a fungus, Ascocoryne sarcoides. We have microbiological data on how to culture these organisms for the production of interesting compounds. These method are high throughput and can be applied to similar fungal organisms. Currently, our findings indicate that the organism is capable of producing interesting biotechnological compounds. These include hydrocarbon compounds, such as linear and cyclic alkanes, have applications in petrochemical and fuel industry. We were also able to demonstrate that the fungus is able to degrade linear alkanes but not cyclic alkanes. Other class of compounds such as terpenes, have relevance to the pharmaceutical, cosmetic, agricultural, and food industries. Based on this finding, we are able to conclude the fungi is able to conduct interesting chemistry on a biological level to produce such a diverse range of compounds. We are also develop a new protocol for the extraction of these compounds. This protocol have better standardisation than conventional extraction methods and is capable of high-throughput extraction. We have in depth understanding at the genetic level for the fungus. We are able to elucidate genes and give functions majority of genes found in the fungus. For some of these compounds mentioned, we were able to elucidate the underpinning genetics. We planned to publish this data publicly for others to study. To date, there are no description of cyclic alkane biosynthesis in biology. Furthermore, linear alkane biosynthesis understanding in fungi is limited. Currently, we are making progress for elucidating the genetic components required for alkane biosynthesis. We will be generating predictions of genetic components that participate in the biosynthesis of linear and cyclic alkanes. |
| Exploitation Route | For future studies, our genomic and metabolic findings will be use to study the biochemistry of the linear and cyclic alkane pathways. This will give genetic engineers more tools for the production of interesting compounds. |
| Sectors | Agriculture Food and Drink Chemicals Energy Environment Pharmaceuticals and Medical Biotechnology Transport |
| Description | Collaboration with Anatune Ltd |
| Organisation | Anatune |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Sector | Private |
| PI Contribution | We have helped to generate data for an application note published by Anatune. |
| Collaborator Contribution | They have helped in running and analysing samples for their state of the art GC-MS. |
| Impact | An application note of the GERSTEL twister bar based on fungal biosynthesis of hydrocarbons. |
| Start Year | 2017 |