Biosoy: biosynthesis of oleochemicals from soybean oil gums using yeast
BioSOY utilizes oleaginous yeast Yarrowia lipolytica to convert soybean oil gums into valuable oleochemicals like omega-3 fatty acids and wax esters. This innovation offers applications in food, nutraceutical, pharmaceutical, and polymer industries, with a focus on commercialization.
Overview
BioSOY represents a groundbreaking advancement in the biosynthesis of essential oleochemicals using the oleaginous yeast Yarrowia lipolytica. This innovative process transforms soybean oil gums into a range of valuable products such as omega-3 fatty acids, wax esters, long-chain diacids, and carotenoids. These oleochemicals have significant applications across various industries, including food, nutraceuticals, pharmaceuticals, and polymers. The project leverages a newly developed yeast biomanufacturing platform at the University of Massachusetts Lowell (UML), which has already achieved high-yield production of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and wax esters from waste oils.
Technical specifications
- Yeast Platform: Utilizes Yarrowia lipolytica, an oleaginous yeast capable of using soybean oil gums as a substrate.
- Substrate Composition: Soybean oil gums consist of ~50% neutral oils, free fatty acids, phospholipids, and derivatives, with ~10% sugars.
- Production Process: Involves enzymatic hydrolysis, fermentation, and enhanced oil-water mixing strategies to improve yields.
- Target Products: Omega-3 EPA and wax esters with high titers and yields (e.g., >20% omega-3 EPA or wax esters in DCW).
Technology readiness level
The technology is currently at TRL 4, indicating that it has been validated in the laboratory. Further development will focus on optimizing strain engineering, fermentation processes, and scaling up to bench-scale bioreactors. The project aims to demonstrate commercial viability with successful production targets and scalable fermentation conditions.
About University of Massachusetts Lowell
UMass Lowell is a comprehensive public research university in the University of Massachusetts system, known for hands-on, industry-aligned education. Industry partners engage through open-access core research facilities and pilot-scale labs for prototyping and scale-up, supported by staff for contract services. A robust co-op program connects companies with student and faculty talent, while incubator and coworking sites near campus offer labs and flexible space. Research is supported by competitive federal funding from agencies such as the National Science Foundation, National Institutes of Health, Department of Energy, and Department of Defense. A dedicated technology transfer office supports IP, licensing, sponsored research, and startup formation to streamline commercialization.
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