Douglas B Jordan

Title: Douglas B. Jordan: Innovator in Plant Cell Wall Carbohydrate Conversion

Introduction

Douglas B. Jordan is a notable inventor based in Peoria, IL (US). He has made significant contributions to the field of biotechnology, particularly in the conversion of plant cell wall carbohydrates to simple sugars. His innovative work has implications for various industries, including biofuels and food production.

Latest Patents

Douglas B. Jordan holds a patent for a novel enzyme, beta-xylosidase, which is designed for the hydrolysis of xylose-containing plant materials. This enzyme exhibits unexpectedly high activity, with a k-value for catalysis of approximately 185 sec for 1,4-β-D-xylobiose (X2) at a pH of 5.3 and a temperature of 25°C. This performance is at least ten times greater than that of other xylosidases under similar conditions. The enzyme's isoelectric point is approximately 4.4, and it demonstrates high activity for hydrolyzing xylose-containing plant materials to xylose when reacted at a pH between about 4.5 and 7.7. The xylose released can be further converted into secondary products, such as ethanol, through fermentation or other reactions.

Career Highlights

Douglas B. Jordan is associated with the United States of America, as represented by the Secretary of Agriculture. His work focuses on advancing the understanding and application of enzymes in the conversion of plant materials, which is crucial for sustainable agricultural practices and renewable energy sources.

Collaborations

Some of his notable coworkers include Christopher A. Dunlap and Xin Liang Li. Their collaborative efforts contribute to the ongoing research and development in the field of enzymatic processes.

Conclusion

Douglas B. Jordan's innovative work in enzyme development showcases the potential for advancements in biotechnology. His contributions are paving the way for more efficient methods of converting plant materials into valuable resources.