Grant: Engage Grants for universities

Regulating the metabolic expression of photosynthetic microorganisms offers the possibility of producing_x000D_ high-value chemicals directly from sunlight, water and carbon dioxide. Despite a plethora of phenotypic and_x000D_ molecular information, only a few cyanobacterial isolates have been developed into tractable genetic systems_x000D_ with associated genome-scale metabolic models. This limits the number of strains that can be used as platform_x000D_ chemical producers. AlgaBloom International, a Vancouver-based biotech company specializing in bioreactor_x000D_ design and cynaobacterial cell growth, is interested in developing their specific strain of Spirulina, optimized_x000D_ for high growth yields, as a platform chemical producer to extend their market range and profitability. Through_x000D_ the application of genome-scale metabolic modeling techniques and controlled laboratory growth experiments,_x000D_ this project aims to redirect metabolite flow through desired biosynthetic pathways in Spirulina. During this_x000D_ phase of the project we will specifically focus on genome sequencing and model directed over-production of_x000D_ phycocyanin, a valuable photosynthetic pigment with multiple applications in the food, medical and_x000D_ instrumentation industries. Predicted overproduction phenotypes will be tested at both bench- and pilot-scales_x000D_ and an optimized phycocyanin extraction and purification protocol will be developed for AlgaBloom.