Project description
A novel biotechnological route to convert CO2 into fine chemicals
Autotrophs produce biomass from inorganic resources such as CO2, using either light energy or energy from reduced molecules in the environment. Funded by the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions programme, the SI-MEPSI will combine biotechnological and chemical approaches to convert CO2 into fine chemicals. In the first stage, SI-MEPSI will optimise autotrophic fermentations based on H2/O2/CO2 using bacterium Ralstonia eutropha to generate multigram quantities of stable-isotope-labelled (SI-labelled) RNA under non-explosive conditions. Subsequently, the SI-labelled RNA products will be used as building blocks in the synthesis of novel SI(2H/13C/15N)-labelled N1-methylpseudouridine (m1Ψ) compounds. The preparation of SI-labelled m1Ψ compounds with a range of site-specific isotopic patterns will rely on a modular methodology that introduces SI-labels into the target molecules at three different points.
Objective
The development of processes for the utilisation of renewable resources is one of the main challenges of our society. Autotrophic fermentations, in which CO2 is converted into biomass, constitute a strategy towards sustainable carbon-cycle economy. In its cutting-edge research project, SI-MEPSI will combine biotechnological and chemical approaches to create an efficient route from CO2 fixation to the production of fine chemicals. In the first stage, SI-MEPSI will optimise H2/O2/CO2-based autotrophic fermentations with Ralstonia eutropha to develop an industrial production of stable-isotope-labelled (SI-labelled) RNA under non-explosive conditions. To achieve this objective, a thorough investigation into the dependence of the growth rate on physicochemical parameters, particularly the pressure, will be performed. Subsequently, the obtained SI-labelled RNA products will be employed as building blocks in a three-step, chemo-enzymatic synthesis of novel SI(2H/13C/15N)-labelled N1-methylpseudouridine (m1Ψ) compounds – important targets in the context of RNA stability studies and NMR structural analysis. Preparation of SI-labelled m1Ψ compounds with a range of site-specific isotopic patterns will rely on a modular methodology that introduces SI-labels into the target molecules at three different points. To maximise the efficiency of the research and facilitate knowledge transfer, the fermentation studies will take place at a biotechnology company in Germany, while the chemo-enzymatic synthesis will be carried out at a university in Austria. In addition, a dedicated training program within an already existing EU ITN will further increase the visibility of the applicant and reinforce his career prospects in the EU. Through targeted dissemination activities, SI-MEPSI will also enhance the competitiveness of sustainable industrial autotrophic processes in the European Biotechnology sector, create new job opportunities, and inspire young students to pursue a scientific career.
Fields of science
Programme(s)
- HORIZON.1.2 - Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) Main Programme
Funding Scheme
HORIZON-AG-UN - HORIZON Unit GrantCoordinator
80339 MUNICH
Germany
The organization defined itself as SME (small and medium-sized enterprise) at the time the Grant Agreement was signed.