Yeast-based precision fermentation for mogroside production
A precision fermentation platform using Saccharomyces cerevisiae for scalable production of mogrosides, offering a superior alternative to plant extraction. Demonstrates high titres and tunable specificity, targeting commercial-scale sweetener production.
Overview
This innovative solution leverages precision fermentation using Saccharomyces cerevisiae to produce mogrosides, the sweet compounds derived from monk fruit, through a controlled biosynthesis process. The platform offers a scalable and controllable alternative to traditional plant extraction methods, enabling the production of nature-identical sweeteners like mogrosides and steviol glycosides. With a patented process ensuring freedom to operate, this technology is poised for commercial-scale implementation, providing consistent high titres and tunable specificity for the sweetener industry.
Technical specifications
Key features:
- Utilizes Saccharomyces cerevisiae for the production of triterpenoids, including mogrosides, through precision fermentation.
- Capable of gram-per-litre production in lab-scale bioreactors, demonstrating the potential for scale-up.
- Incorporates a patented pathway for 2,3-oxidosqualene production, ensuring freedom to operate.
- Minimal genetic engineering required, enhancing transferability to proprietary production strains.
- Employs a self-regulation mechanism in yeast to increase pathway flux without compromising growth.
Technology readiness level
The technology currently stands at TRL 2, with successful laboratory-scale demonstrations and a clear plan for pilot-scale translation. Future efforts focus on optimizing strain development and sensory validation in collaboration with industry partners, aiming for commercial readiness by 2027.
About The University of Queensland
The University of Queensland is a large, multi-campus public research university in Brisbane with a comprehensive academic and research profile. Industry partners engage through hospital-embedded laboratories and clinical sites, pilot testbeds, and field campuses across Queensland that enable prototyping, trials, and validation in real-world settings. Co-location with major health precincts and proximity to Brisbane’s innovation districts make collaboration and talent access straightforward, while on-campus incubation and professional education support workforce upskilling. Research is supported by competitive national funding from the Australian Research Council and the National Health and Medical Research Council, alongside state and industry investment. A dedicated technology transfer office and commercialization company manage IP, licensing, sponsored research agreements, and spin-out formation.
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