L-arabinose isomerase technology for tagatose production from galactose
BRAIN Biotech AG presents a novel use of L-arabinose isomerase for converting galactose into tagatose, a valuable rare sugar. This biotransformation leverages lactose byproducts and requires no cofactors, promoting a sustainable circular economy.
Overview
BRAIN Biotech AG has developed an innovative approach to produce the rare sugar tagatose from galactose using L-arabinose isomerase. This method utilizes lactose, a common byproduct, as a substrate. The bioconversion process does not require any cofactors, making it economically attractive and environmentally sustainable. The resulting tagatose, valued at 67 EUR/kg in Germany, offers significant commercial potential due to its application in the food and pharmaceutical industries.
Technical specifications
Process Features:
- Utilizes lactose byproducts, converting them into galactose and glucose via lactase.
- Galactose is transformed into tagatose using L-arabinose isomerase, while glucose serves as a carbon source for enzyme-producing microbial strains.
- Employs modified microbial strains capable of using glucose as a sole carbon source.
- Designed for industrial scalability without the need for cofactors.
Future Development Stages:
- Stage 1: Enzyme discovery and intellectual property creation for robust industrial L-arabinose isomerases.
- Stage 2: Optional enzyme optimization through protein engineering.
- Stage 3: Selection and optimization of microbial strains for enzyme production.
- Stage 4: Process optimization and scale-up for economic viability.
Technology readiness level
This technology is at TRL 4, indicating that it has been validated in a laboratory environment. Further development stages will focus on enzyme discovery, strain optimization, and process scale-up to enhance industrial applicability and economic feasibility.
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.
delivered to your inbox.