Company Filing History:
13 out of 63 
3 out of 19 
1 out of 40 
Years Active: 2011-2019
Title: **Innovative Contributions of Karen Espina in Renewable Chemicals**
Introduction
Karen Espina is a distinguished inventor based in San Francisco, CA, known for her significant contributions to the field of renewable chemicals. With an impressive portfolio of 17 patents, she has made substantial advancements in the cultivation of microalgae and the engineering of microbial strains for industrial applications.
Latest Patents
Among her notable patents is the development of heterotrophically cultivated recombinant microalgae. This patent discloses methods for manufacturing renewable chemicals through the creation of novel triglyceride oils, which undergo various chemical modifications, including transesterification, hydrogenation, hydrocracking, deoxygenation, isomerization, interesterification, hydroxylation, hydrolysis, and saponification. Furthermore, she presents novel oils with fatty acid chain lengths of C8, C10, C12, or C14, which serve as valuable feedstocks for these methods. Another significant patent covers genetically engineered microbial strains that utilize prototheca lipid pathway genes, providing microbial oil suitable for use as a food additive and a source of renewable fuels and industrial chemicals.
Career Highlights
Karen has built a remarkable career working with leading companies in the industry. She played pivotal roles at Solazyme, Inc. and Terravia Holdings, Inc., where her innovative approaches contributed to advancing biotechnological solutions for sustainable energy and materials. Her work has not only paved the way for new renewable resources but also demonstrated the potential of biotechnology in addressing global energy needs.
Collaborations
Throughout her career, Karen has collaborated with accomplished professionals, including Scott Franklin and Aravind Somanchi. These partnerships highlight her ability to work effectively within teams to drive innovation and develop groundbreaking technologies in the fields of renewable chemicals and microbiology.
Conclusion
Karen Espina stands out as a leading inventor whose work in the realm of renewable chemicals and biotechnology is making significant strides towards sustainability. Her 17 patents reflect her commitment to innovation and her impact on the industry. As the demand for renewable resources continues to grow, the contributions of inventors like Karen will play a crucial role in shaping a sustainable future.