Genetic biosensors for developing better cell factories for production of platform chemicals

Research Project, 2018 – 2020

Efficient biochemical conversion of renewable carbon sources is crucial for the transition into a resource efficient society. Industrial processes require strains that are tolerant to several stress conditions and display a high productivity, features to be developed in order for biobased chemicals and materials to be price-competitive.

The aim of this project is to develop genetic biosensors for yeast, that report intracellular concentrations of biochemicals produced by the cells or inhibitors found in the raw material. Inhibitors are abundant in lignocellulosic hydrolysates, a raw material made from plant biomass unsuited for use as food. The biosensors developed can be used for finding more robust and efficient cell factories with increased tolerance or for screening strains with an increased production of biochemicals.