Comprehensive Teaching and Learning Approach for Bioprocess Integration: A Case Study in Chromoprotein Bioproduction

Area of Science:

• Biotechnology Engineering
• Biochemical Engineering
• Industrial Biotechnology

Background:

• Bioprocess design education often lacks integrated approaches, focusing heavily on molecular aspects.
• Key elements like lab-scale production, purification, and economic evaluation are frequently overlooked in academic programs.
• There is a need for comprehensive training in holistic bioprocess development for industrial biomolecule production.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose and assess a comprehensive educational strategy for holistic bioprocess development in undergraduate biotechnology programs.
• To integrate molecular biology, upstream/downstream processing, and economic evaluation into a cohesive learning experience.
• To enhance student skills in designing and evaluating bioprocesses for industrial biomolecule production, using recombinant protein (chromoprotein) as a case study.

Main Methods:

• Developed a curriculum integrating genetic engineering of Escherichia coli, upstream/bioreactor technology, and tailored downstream purification.
• Implemented a collaborative project focused on recombinant chromoprotein production across multiple Biotechnology Engineering courses.
• Utilized specialized software (Benchling, MATLAB, SuperPro Designer) for recombinant technology, process modeling, and economic analysis.

Main Results:

• Students achieved a comprehensive understanding of lab-scale chromoprotein production.
• Significant skill development was observed in genetic engineering, biomolecule production, bioreactor scaling, and upstream/downstream process selection.
• Integration of software tools enhanced student confidence and proficiency in bioprocess evaluation and sizing, highlighting the importance of chromatography.

Conclusions:

• The proposed holistic educational strategy effectively improved students' ability to design and evaluate bioprocesses.
• This integrated approach better prepares future biotechnology engineers for industrial challenges in economic and sustainable biomolecule production.
• The study underscores the value of hands-on projects and specialized software in biotechnology education.