Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 20, 2026
06:24
Generic Protocol for Optimization of Heterologous Protein Production Using Automated Microbioreactor Technology
Published on: December 15, 2017
10.8K
Application of theoretical methods to increase succinate production in engineered strains
M A Valderrama-Gomez1, D Kreitmayer1, S Wolf1
1Systems Biotechnology, Technische Universität München, Boltzmannstr. 15, 85748, Garching bei München, Germany.
Bioprocess and Biosystems Engineering
|January 2, 2017
Summary
Computational methods offer novel strategies for succinate production. While theoretical studies are numerous, experimental validation remains limited, highlighting the need for integrated computational and experimental approaches in metabolic engineering.
Area of Science:
- Metabolic Engineering
- Computational Biology
- Biotechnology
Background:
- Succinate is a valuable platform chemical with diverse industrial applications.
- Existing reviews lack analysis of computational methods' impact on succinate production.
- Non-intuitive strategies for target molecule enhancement are increasingly discovered via computation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the application of computational methods in succinic acid production.
- To assess the gap between theoretical predictions and experimental implementation.
- To evaluate the potential of computational approaches in guiding metabolic engineering.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of computational studies on succinic acid production (2002-2016).
- Analysis of experimental studies implementing theoretical knowledge.
- Comparative assessment of computational predictions and experimental outcomes.
Main Results:
- 26 theoretical studies published between 2002 and 2016.
- Only 10 studies reported experimental implementation of theoretical knowledge.
- No experimental studies precisely matched computational predictions, but combined approaches showed promise.
Conclusions:
- Computational methods provide rational guidance for metabolic engineering.
- Integrating computational analysis with directed evolution and comparative genomics enhances succinate production strategies.
- Further research is needed to bridge the gap between computational predictions and experimental validation for optimized succinate biosynthesis.
Related Concept Videos
01:22Bioreactor Controls-III
Strain improvement is a foundational strategy in industrial microbiology aimed at maximizing microbial productivity, particularly because natural isolates typically yield commercially valuable products in very low concentrations. Although optimizing the culture medium and environmental conditions can improve yields, these adjustments are inherently limited by the organism’s genetic potential. As a result, the focus shifts toward genetic modifications to enhance biosynthetic capacity. The...
01:27Upstream Processing
Upstream processing represents a critical phase in biomanufacturing, wherein biological systems such as microorganisms, mammalian cells, or insect cells are cultivated to produce therapeutic proteins, vaccines, enzymes, or other biologically derived products. This phase encompasses all steps from the selection and genetic manipulation of the production organism to the cultivation of cells in bioreactors under tightly controlled environmental conditions.Host Selection and Genetic OptimizationThe...
01:27Production of Alcohol
Continuous fermentation is a key strategy in industrial ethanol production, particularly when efficiency, scalability, and high yields are essential. This approach allows for uninterrupted operation and optimized resource utilization. The primary feedstock, corn starch, undergoes enzymatic hydrolysis facilitated by α-amylase and glucoamylase. These enzymes break down the starch into fermentable sugars such as glucose, which are readily assimilated by fermentative microorganisms.Fermentation...
01:25Production of Organic Acids
Lactic acid, an important organic acid extensively applied in food, pharmaceutical, and biodegradable polymer industries, is primarily produced via microbial fermentation. This method is favored over chemical synthesis due to its environmental sustainability and capacity for enantiomerically pure product formation. Among various microbial processes, the fermentation of starch-based substrates stands out due to the abundance and renewability of raw materials like corn and potatoes.Hydrolysis of...
01:27Production of Antibiotics
Penicillin, one of the earliest and most widely used antibiotics, is produced industrially by the filamentous fungus Penicillium chrysogenum. Large stirred-tank bioreactors ranging from tens to hundreds of thousands of liters maintain tightly controlled temperature, pH, and dissolved oxygen conditions to support fungal metabolism and maximize antibiotic yield. Penicillin is a secondary metabolite, synthesized primarily during the stationary growth phase, which requires a carefully managed...
01:30Production of Pharmaceuticals
Industrial insulin production uses genetically engineered E. coli expressing a proinsulin gene controlled by a tryptophan promoter and containing a methionine linker for later cleavage. The cells also carry ampicillin resistance for selective growth. Seed cultures are stored at −80 °C and production begins by thawing a small amount to inoculate starter cultures, which are progressively scaled to a 50,000-L bioreactor. In the bioreactor, E. coli grow in nutrient-rich media under sterile, tightly...