Location History:
- Beverly, MA (US) (1993 - 1998)
- Manchester, MA (US) (1998 - 2016)
Company Filing History:
9 out of 336 
1 out of 3,687 
Years Active: 1993-2016
Title: The Innovative Contributions of Donald G. Comb
Introduction
Donald G. Comb is a notable inventor based in Beverly, MA (US), recognized for his significant contributions to the field of biotechnology. With a total of 9 patents to his name, Comb has made strides in the conversion of natural materials into valuable products. His work has implications for both environmental sustainability and advancements in genetic engineering.
Latest Patents
Among his latest patents, Comb has developed methods for the conversion of chitin into N-acetylglucosamine, glucosamine, and bioethanol. This innovative process utilizes chitin sourced from the environment, such as invertebrate cuticles, fungal cells, and algae. By creating mutant bacteria through gene inactivation, he has enabled the chitin catabolic sensor to maintain an activated state. Furthermore, his methods allow for the conversion of N-acetylglucosamine into ethanol using a genetically engineered yeast strain, which can be co-cultivated with Vibrionaceae to yield significant amounts of ethanol.
Another notable patent involves a method for generating split, non-transferable genes capable of expressing active protein products. This transgene system facilitates efficient protein expression in target hosts, such as plants, while preventing the undesirable migration of transgenes into related host systems or the environment via pollen. The methods described can be applied to express virtually any protein of interest in various organisms.
Career Highlights
Donald G. Comb has had a distinguished career, working with reputable organizations such as New England Biolabs, Inc. and The Johns Hopkins University. His experience in these institutions has allowed him to collaborate with leading experts in the field and contribute to groundbreaking research.
Collaborations
Throughout his career, Comb has worked alongside notable colleagues, including Francine B. Perler and William E. Jack. These collaborations have further enriched his research and innovation efforts.
Conclusion
Donald G. Comb's innovative work in biotechnology and genetic engineering has led to significant advancements in the conversion of natural materials into useful products. His contributions continue to impact the fields of environmental sustainability and protein expression.