Evolved yeast platform for galactose-selective bioproduction from lactose
Engineered yeast strains selectively utilize galactose from lactose, converting it into high-value products like mucic acid. This platform overcomes glucose repression, offering scalable solutions for materials and biopolymers markets.
Overview
The evolved yeast platform is designed to transform lactose, a common by-product, into high-value galactose-derived compounds such as mucic acid, which are otherwise underutilized due to glucose repression. Utilizing advanced accelerated evolution techniques, this platform enables yeast strains to preferentially metabolize galactose even in glucose-rich environments. This innovative approach is aligned with market needs across the materials, nutraceuticals, and biopolymers sectors, aiming to significantly enhance lactose valorization potential.
Technical specifications
- Yeast Strain Development: Utilizes K. marxianus strains engineered through adaptive evolution to enhance galactose flux.
- Bioproduction Tools: Employs BioLector, colony picker, and Sartorius bioreactors for strain selection and fermentation optimization.
- Product Focus: Targets production of compounds like mucic acid using lactose or whey permeate as feedstock.
- Process Phases:
- Phase 1: Strain development (0-6 months) using accelerated evolution and sugar utilization profiling.
- Phase 2: Pathway engineering (4-10 months) for improved product yield.
- Phase 3: Scale-up and techno-economic assessment (10-18 months).
Technology readiness level
This platform is currently at Technology Readiness Level 3, indicating experimental proof of concept has been achieved. Future phases will focus on strain development, pathway integration, and process scale-up.
About AgResearch
AgResearch is a New Zealand government research organization focused on the agricultural sector; formerly an independent Crown Research Institute, since July 1, 2025 it has operated as a group within the Bioeconomy Science Institute. With major campuses co‑located at Lincoln University and near Massey University, and shared spaces with FoodHQ partners, industry teams can access specialized labs and collaborative project space. Company‑owned research farms nationwide enable field validation and scale‑up alongside commercial partners. Research is supported by New Zealand Government investment through MBIE programmes such as the Strategic Science Investment Fund and National Science Challenges, complemented by competitive grants and contract research. A dedicated commercialisation team manages IP, patents, licensing, and MVP development, and connects through national commercialisation networks.
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