High-titer microbial production of α-bisabolol

Overview

Jiangnan University has developed a high-titer, sustainable biosynthesis platform for producing (−)-α-bisabolol, a valuable sesquiterpene with significant anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. Traditionally sourced from plants or petrochemical routes, this compound is essential for the cosmetic, pharmaceutical, and flavor industries. By utilizing engineered Candida tropicalis cell factories, this research provides a green, scalable alternative that reduces reliance on resource-intensive extraction methods and offers a sustainable blueprint for terpenoid production in nonconventional yeasts.

Technical specifications

The platform utilizes advanced metabolic engineering strategies to optimize the production of (−)-α-bisabolol:

• Host Strain: Engineered Candida tropicalis, selected for its high tolerance to the product.
• Metabolic Optimization: Employs a Scaffold-Mediated Assembly Regulation Tool to co-express MrBBS and ERG20 genes, alongside a Linker- and Scaffold-Mediated Assembly Regulation Tool to coordinate eight key acetyl-CoA/mevalonate pathway genes.
• Genetic Modifications: Includes the knockout of competing genes such as DPP1 and ERG9, and the peroxisomal surface display of Cat2 and ERG10.
• Performance: Achieved a record titer of 36.9 g/L in a 5 L fed-batch fermenter, optimized for minimal energy and substrate input.
• Process Control: Utilizes a low-energy, two-stage temperature control strategy to maximize yield.

Technology readiness level

The technology is at TRL 4, representing laboratory validation and prototype demonstration. The research has successfully demonstrated high-titer production in a 5 L fermenter scale, supported by published studies and patent filings detailing the strain construction and fermentation methods. While the platform shows significant potential for industrial application, it remains a research-based result rather than a commercially deployed product.