Protobacterial exopolysaccharides for biological stabilization
Explore the potential of protobacterial exopolysaccharides from desert-adapted alphaproteobacterial isolates to stabilize and extend the shelf life of biologicals like microorganisms and biomolecules.
Overview
Protobacterial exopolysaccharides, derived from alphaproteobacterial isolates found in the Arabian desert, offer a novel solution for stabilizing biologicals. These exopolysaccharides are key to the survival of these bacteria in harsh desert conditions, suggesting their potential to enhance the stability and shelf life of various biologicals, including microorganisms and biomolecules. This research explores encapsulating biologicals with these exopolysaccharides, potentially benefiting industries reliant on biological preservation.
Technical specifications
Key features:
- Derived from genetically characterized alphaproteobacterial isolates from desert soil.
- Exopolysaccharides are produced in large quantities and can be cost-effectively purified.
- Capable of stabilizing biologicals by mimicking natural survival strategies of desert bacteria.
- Applicable in encapsulating microorganisms and biomolecules under controlled conditions.
Technology readiness level
The current technology readiness level is 4, indicating that the exopolysaccharides have been validated in a lab environment and are ready for further testing in relevant settings.
About University of Connecticut
UConn is a comprehensive public research university and the state’s flagship, with its main campus in Storrs and an academic medical center in Farmington. Industry engages through UConn Tech Park—anchored by the Innovation Partnership Building—with shared labs, pilot‑scale testbeds, and advanced prototyping for collaborators. Integration with UConn Health enables clinical collaborations and translation, while Hartford and Stamford campuses connect companies to talent along the New York–Boston corridor; a statewide extension network supports technology adoption. Research is supported by competitive federal funding from agencies such as NIH, NSF, DOE, USDA, and DOD. A dedicated technology commercialization office and the Technology Incubation Program support IP, licensing, and startup incubation across multiple sites.
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