Biochemical conversion of sugar to novel renewable products and materials

Authors: Skory, Christopher - Chris; Cote, Gregory; Leathers, Timothy; Cormier, Ryan; Rich, Joseph

Submitted to: Meeting Abstract
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: 3/15/2016
Publication Date: 3/17/2016
Citation: Skory, C.D., Cote, G.L., Leathers, T.D., Cormier, R., Rich, J.O. 2016. Biochemical conversion of sugar to novel renewable products and materials [abstract]. Advances in Sugar Crop Processing and Conversion.

Interpretive Summary:

Technical Abstract: Dextrans and related glucan polysaccharides are synthesized from sucrose by enzymes, called glucansucrases, which are produced by lactic acid bacteria. These water-soluble glucans have been studied for many years and are used in numerous commercial applications and products. A small number of Leuconostoc mesenteroides strains and cariogenic Streptococcus species can also produce water-insoluble glucans that have potential for enhanced oil recovery, encapsulation technology, and production of biocompatible films and fibers. We recently developed technology for large-scale production of a recombinant glucansucrase enzyme from L. mesenteroides that produces water-insoluble glucans from sucrose. We can mechanically convert these unique glucans to nanoparticles that produce optically clear coatings and can act as carriers for hydrophobic compounds. We have also developed reaction methods and genetic engineering routes for producing glucans with altered linkage types that affect the physical properties of the polysaccharide. The L. mesenteroides glucansucrase is also more effective than previously described enzymes for the transfer of D-glucopyranosyl units from sucrose to acceptor sugars for the synthesis of novel glucosyl saccharides, which can be utilized as prebiotics and drug excipients. In addition to these unique glucans, we will briefly discuss the development of several other bioproducts that can be effectively made from sucrose.