Matrix Genetics, LLC

Margaret Mary McCormick

James M Roberts

Fred Cross

Paul Warrener

Ernesto Javier Munoz

Michael Carleton

Kimberly Marie Kotovic

Brett K Kaiser

This disclosure describes genetically modified photosynthetic microorganisms, e.g., Cyanobacteria, that overexpress an acyl carrier protein (ACP), an acyl-ACP synthase (Aas), or both, optionally in combination with one or more overexpressed or exogenous lipid biosynthesis proteins, and/or one or more overexpressed or exogenous glycogen breakdown proteins. Exemplary biosynthesis proteins include diacyglycerol acyltransferases, thioesterases, phosphatidate phosphatases, phospholipases, triacylglycerol (TAG) hydrolases, fatty acyl-CoA synthetases, and/or acetyl-CoA carboxylases, including combinations thereof. Also included are photosynthetic microorganisms comprising mutations or deletions in a glycogen biosynthesis or storage pathway, which accumulate a reduced amount of glycogen under reduced nitrogen conditions as compared to a wild type photosynthetic microorganism. The modified photosynthetic microorganisms provided herein are capable of producing increased amounts of lipids such as fatty acids and/or synthesizing triglycerides.

Modified photosynthetic microorganisms for producing lipids

This disclosure describes genetically modified photosynthetic microorganisms, including Cyanobacteria, that contain one or more mutations or deletions in a glycogen biosynthesis or storage pathway, which accumulate a reduced amount of glycogen as compared to a wild type Cyanobacterium, and which are capable of producing an increased amount of lipids and/or fatty acids. In certain embodiments, the genetically modified photosynthetic microorganisms also contain one or more exogenous genes encoding a diacyglycerol acyltransferase, a phosphatidate phosphatase, and/or an acetyl-CoA carboxylase, and which are capable of producing increased amounts of lipids or fatty acids and/or synthesizing triglycerides.

Modified photosynthetic microorganisms with reduced glycogen and their use in producing carbon-based products

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Seattle, WA, United States of America

Margaret Mary McCormick