Clean Technology
Modified Yeast Ferments Biomass Xylose
WARF: P120307US01
Inventors: Trey Sato
The Wisconsin Alumni Research Foundation (WARF) is seeking commercial partners interested in developing a genetically engineered yeast strain better able to metabolize xylose.
Overview
Producing biofuel on a useful scale requires efficient fermentation of cellulosic plant material. The sugars glucose and xylose are the most abundant carbohydrates found in hemicellulose. The yeast most commonly utilized for industrial fermentation – Saccharomyces cerevisiae – can ferment glucose but not xylose.
By studying the genomes of wild strains of yeast capable of utilizing both sugars, researchers hope to identify genes capable of enhancing fermentation. The ultimate goal is to create a genetically modified ‘super-strain’ ideal for industrial ethanol production.
By studying the genomes of wild strains of yeast capable of utilizing both sugars, researchers hope to identify genes capable of enhancing fermentation. The ultimate goal is to create a genetically modified ‘super-strain’ ideal for industrial ethanol production.
The Invention
A UW–Madison researcher and others have developed an S. cerevisiae strain genetically engineered with xylose utilization genes from another yeast, Scheffersomyces stipitis. The new strain (GLBRCY35) has been made to express S. stipitis genes XYL1, XYL2 and XYL3, which are known to improve xylose fermentation.
Applications
- Further development for industrial ethanol production
- Plastics manufacturing and biomaterials
Key Benefits
- Strain is better at fermenting xylose than its non-modified parent.
Additional Information
Related Technologies
For current licensing status, please contact Jennifer Gottwald at [javascript protected email address] or 608-960-9854