Enzymatic enhancement of fatty acid melting points through hydratation
BRAIN Biotech AG introduces a sustainable enzymatic process to increase the melting points of unsaturated fatty acids. Using oleate hydratase, this method transforms oleic acid into 10-hydroxy stearic acid, enhancing stability without byproducts, ideal for industrial applications.
Overview
BRAIN Biotech AG presents an innovative enzymatic solution designed to increase the melting points of unsaturated fatty acids through targeted hydration. By employing enzymes like oleate hydratase, unsaturated fatty acids undergo a precise water addition to their carbon-carbon double bonds. This process not only raises the melting point but also avoids unwanted byproducts, making it a sustainable alternative for industrial applications. For example, oleic acid can be converted to 10-hydroxy stearic acid, significantly raising its melting point from 13-14°C to 81-82°C.
Technical specifications
Key features:
- Utilizes oleate hydratase (EC 4.2.1.53) as a biocatalyst
- Conversion of oleic acid to 10-hydroxy stearic acid to increase melting point
- Enzymes discovered and engineered using protein discovery and AI tools
- Process conditions optimized for industrial environments with reaction temperatures increased from 30°C to 45°C
Applications:
- Improvement of fatty acid stability for industrial uses
- Potential for designing biocatalysts for various unsaturated fatty acids
Technology readiness level
This technology is currently at TRL 4, with validation in a laboratory environment. Ongoing research is focused on expanding enzyme discovery and engineering to cover a wider range of unsaturated fatty acids, with future industrial applications in sight.
About BRAIN Biotech AG
BRAIN Biotech AG is an integrated industrial biotechnology company that develops, produces, and distributes specialty enzymes, proteins, and microbial production strains. The company operates through two main business segments: BRAINBiocatalysts, which focuses on the commercialization of enzymes and specialty ingredients, and BRAINBioIncubator, which conducts research-intensive development projects. Utilizing advanced expertise in biology, bioinformatics, and bioprocess engineering, the company provides end-to-end services ranging from discovery and strain development to large-scale fermentation and manufacturing. They function as a partner for industries including food and beverage, life sciences, and chemical sectors, delivering solutions that aim to enhance industrial sustainability and efficiency.
By leveraging their proprietary technology portfolio and R&D capabilities, BRAIN Biotech enables customers to optimize production processes and develop more sustainable bio-based products. With over 30 years of experience, the company serves as an innovation partner that helps clients navigate complex development challenges, from laboratory-scale concepts to commercial-scale production. Their work directly addresses global sustainability goals by providing biological alternatives for traditional industrial methods. The group operates international facilities across Europe and the USA, providing a robust infrastructure to support long-term development partnerships and the monetization of biotechnological intellectual property.
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