The use of microorganisms in L-ascorbic acid production

Area of Science:

• Biotechnology
• Biochemistry
• Microbiology

Background:

• L-Ascorbic acid (vitamin C) has been industrially produced for 70 years.
• The Reichstein method, a chemical synthesis, has long dominated L-ascorbic acid production.
• Recent decades have seen development of bioconversion systems to improve production.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current biotechnological alternatives for L-ascorbic acid production.
• To explore novel bacterial pathways for direct L-ascorbic acid synthesis.
• To outline the advantages of new approaches over existing methods.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on biotechnological L-ascorbic acid production.
• Analysis of bioconversion systems employing bacteria, yeasts, and microalgae.
• Discussion of novel bacterial pathways for direct synthesis.

Main Results:

• Biotechnological methods using bacteria, yeasts, and microalgae are emerging alternatives.
• Novel bacterial pathways offer potential for direct L-ascorbic acid production.
• These novel approaches present advantages over current chemical and biotechnological processes.

Conclusions:

• Biotechnological routes are viable and evolving alternatives to the Reichstein method.
• Further research into novel bacterial pathways could lead to more efficient vitamin C production.
• Sustainable and simplified production of L-ascorbic acid is achievable through biotechnology.