Genetically engineered cyanobacteria for methyl laurate and thermostable phycocyanin production
Genetically engineered Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803 strains produce and excrete methyl laurate and thermostable phycocyanin. Methyl laurate can be harvested from the water surface, while phycocyanin reaches up to 20% of dry biomass and remains heat-resistant up to 100°C. The strains can grow in both salt and freshwater, including wastewater, supporting versatile green-chemistry applications and improved economic viability.
Overview
This solution uses genetic modification of cyanobacteria, specifically Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803, to produce and excrete methyl laurate, a valuable compound that can be harvested due to its ability to float on water. Additionally, the modified strains produce thermostable phycocyanin, a pigment with commercial potential. These cyanobacteria can grow in both salt and freshwater environments, utilizing diverse nutrient sources, including wastewater, supporting versatility for green-chemistry applications.
Technical specifications
- Organism: Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803, capable of thriving in up to 1 M NaCl environments
- Primary product: Methyl laurate, harvested from the water surface
- Secondary product: Thermostable phycocyanin, up to 20% of dry biomass, heat-resistant up to 100°C
- Growth conditions: Compatible with diverse water sources and enhanced CO2 delivery from the air
- Customization: Potential for further genetic modifications to produce other compounds
Technology readiness level
The technology is at TRL 4, indicating validation in laboratory environments. Current efforts focus on scaling production and optimizing yields in pond settings. Future developments will depend on specific industry requirements.
About Arizona State University
Arizona State University is a comprehensive public research university with a multi-campus presence across the Phoenix metropolitan area and a scale that supports interdisciplinary, use-inspired discovery. Industry partners access co-located laboratories, a research and technology park, and innovation centers that house corporate teams with faculty to speed prototyping and validation. A formal alliance with a major hospital system and proximity to a fast-growing manufacturing corridor enable clinical translation and pilot-scale testbeds, while applied student engagements create dependable talent pipelines. Research is backed by competitive federal funding from agencies such as NSF, NIH, DOE, DOD, and NASA. A dedicated technology transfer office supports IP, licensing, and startup formation.
delivered to your inbox.