OPTimising IndiGOidine production heterogeneity for sustainable microbial blue pigment biosynthesis

Introduction

The textile industry is a major global contributor to environmental pollution, primarily due to the harsh conditions and hazardous chemicals used in fabric pre-treatment, dyeing, and finishing processes. Notably, the chemical synthesis of dyes such as indigo, best known for its use in jeans manufacturing, contributes to this burden.

Need for Sustainable Alternatives

With growing demands for clothing and fabrics, there is a desperate need for more sustainable alternatives. One potential solution is the use of microbial alternatives to indigo, with a similar colour spectrum and dyeing capacity.

Research Background

Our lab recently engineered a microbial factory for the production of blue dyes using the industrially relevant yeast Yarrowia lipolytica, and we have registered a patent due to promising yields during small-scale fermentation.

Findings on Production Yields

In our latest research to improve production yields, we noticed a remarkable difference in biosynthesis at the single-cell level, with some cells containing tenfold amounts of the pigment.

Research Objectives

Building on our recent research funded by the ERC starting grant DEUSBIO to understand metabolic single-cell heterogeneity, this proposal aims to:

1. Characterise drivers of production heterogeneity during Y. lipolytica fermentation.
2. Harness production heterogeneity by engineering stable high producer populations.
3. Optimise bioproduction and increase overall yields.

Impact of Research

This research will be pivotal for improving the economic viability of sustainable dye production and for developing an optimized microbial host with broader applications in biomanufacturing processes.

Future Collaborations

By establishing a proof of concept (PoC) through this research, we anticipate potential collaborations with industrial partners, paving the way for the commercialisation of sustainable blue pigment production.