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Diacylglycerol Acyltransferases Involved in Oil Biosynthesis in Microalgae

详细技术说明

Introduction The need for the development of biomass-based domestic production systems for high energy liquid transportation fuels is widely recognized. Concerns related to environmental impact and the price of oil combined with political issues related to dependence on foreign oil have increased interest in alternative biofuels. Currently, transportation fuel is primarily derived from petroleum with increasing availability of biofuels, including ethanol derived from corn and biodiesel derived from soy and palms. Description of Technology  This technology relates to the identification of enzymes involved in oil biosynthesis in algae, which normally occurs under stress conditions (e.g., nutrient stress). Michigan State University has identified a candidate gene for the enzyme diacylglycerol acyltransferase in the Chlamydomonas genome that is strongly induced under oil-producing conditions. This gene could be ectopically expressed in genetically engineered strains of algae, resulting in high oil yields under normal conditions for the production of biofuels. Key BenefitsImproved biofuel yields in algae: Genetically engineered algae based on the invention would increase yields, improving the economics of algae-based biofuel production.Algae good biofuel alternative: Algae may be a better alternative to soy, ethanol, and other biofuels due to higher potential yields and its status as a nonfood crop. Applications The technology would be useful in biofuel production processes using algae, thereby benefiting the emerging renewable-energy market. Patent Status Patent pending Inventors Christoph Benning, Rachel Miller, Eric Meollering Tech ID TEC2008-0056

*Abstract

None

*Principal Investigation

Name: Christoph Benning, Professor

Department: Biochemistry and Molecular Biology

Name: Rachel Miller, PhD Student

Department: Cell and Molecular Biology

Name: Eric Moellering, Graduate Student

Department: Biochemistry & Molecular Biology

国家/地区

美国