Continuous biofilm fermentation platform for lactose to antimicrobial peptide production
A scalable, continuous fermentation platform using a biofilm bioreactor system to convert lactose into antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) like subtilin. The system leverages Bacillus subtilis natto and offers high yield, scalability, and contamination resistance.
Overview
The continuous biofilm fermentation platform offers an innovative approach to produce antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) by converting lactose using a biofilm bioreactor system. This scalable technology utilizes Bacillus subtilis natto, a strain known for its robust biofilm-forming capabilities, to produce AMPs such as subtilin. The platform has already demonstrated exceptional scalability and contamination resistance, previously achieving success in high-yield menaquinone-7 production.
Technical specifications
- Utilizes Bacillus subtilis natto engineered for lactose uptake and AMP production
- Biofilm bioreactor system supports high cell density and long-term metabolic activity
- Scalable from 2L to 30L systems, with demonstrated success in menaquinone-7 production
- Phase 1 validation includes media optimization, AMP production validation, and scalability assessment
- Technology allows for benchmarking productivity against traditional glucose-fed systems
Technology readiness level
This technology is currently at TRL 4, indicating that it has been validated in a laboratory environment and is undergoing further development to optimize scalability and economic feasibility. Future validation plans include scaling up from 2L to 30L, optimizing media formulations, and conducting a technoeconomic analysis.
About Colorado State University
Colorado State University is a comprehensive public land‑grant research university with an applied, partnership‑driven culture. Multiple research campuses—including the Fort Collins main campus, a public‑facing Denver site, and a foothills research complex with shared core facilities and pilot‑scale testbeds—enable companies to co‑locate, access instrumentation, and run validation studies. A statewide Extension network and proximity to the Front Range innovation corridor provide streamlined engagement with regional and national industry, while an integrated veterinary teaching hospital supports translational studies. Research is supported by competitive federal funding from agencies such as NSF, NIH, USDA, DOE, and DoD. A dedicated technology transfer office streamlines IP, contracting, and startup formation, with incubator and collaboration space for industry partners.
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