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Updated: Aug 15, 2025

Genetic Engineering of an Unconventional Yeast for Renewable Biofuel and Biochemical Production
Published on: September 20, 2016
Engineering of non-model eukaryotes for bioenergy and biochemical production
Deon Ploessl1, Yuxin Zhao2, Zengyi Shao3
1Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, USA; NSF Engineering Research Center for Biorenewable Chemicals, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, USA.
Abstract:
The prospect of leveraging naturally occurring phenotypes to overcome bottlenecks constraining the bioeconomy has marshalled increased exploration of nonconventional organisms. This review discusses the status of non-model eukaryotic species in bioproduction, the evaluation criteria for effectively matching a candidate host to a biosynthetic process, and the genetic engineering tools needed for host domestication. We present breakthroughs in genome editing and heterologous pathway design, delving into innovative spatiotemporal modulation strategies that potentiate more refined engineering capabilities. We cover current understanding of genetic instability and its ramifications for industrial scale-up, highlighting key factors and possible remedies. Finally, we propose future opportunities to expand the current collection of available hosts and provide guidance to benefit the broader bioeconomy.
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