Bioengineering non-sugar modifications of saponins (OSBOURN_J17UNIL)
Lead Research Organisation:
University of East Anglia
Department Name: Graduate Office
Abstract
Saponins (glycosylated triterpenes) are one of the most numerous and diverse groups of plant natural products. They are complex molecules that are, for the most part, beyond the reach of chemical synthesis. These compounds have a wide range of industrial applications, including as surfactants for use in soaps and other home and personal care products. A considerable amount is now known about the enzymes that synthesise and modify triterpene scaffolds. This project exploits an innovative synthetic biology approach for easy and quick production of known and new-to-nature triterpenes using a transient plant expression system. The goal is to engineer triterpenes with optimised physical properties and performance for use in home and personal care products.
People |
ORCID iD |
| Anne Osbourn (Primary Supervisor) | |
| Eliot Jan-Smith (Student) |
| Description | Involvement in the Norwich Science Festival 2019 |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Public/other audiences |
| Results and Impact | Involved in running a stall along with two others aimed at explaining synthetic biology & production of triterpenoids to the general public, with a focus on children. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2019 |
| Description | Poster Presentation to the JIC Annual Science Meeting 2020 |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A talk or presentation |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Postgraduate students |
| Results and Impact | A poster outlining my work and progress so far was presented to the ASM, which this year was an online conference. A discussion session was held online, open for all participants, in which a number of my colleagues asked questions and offered suggestions on the project. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2020 |