Teknologian Tutkimuskeskus Vtt Oy

Satu Hilditch

Merja Penttilä

Peter Richard

A DNA molecule comprising a fungal gene encoding an enzyme protein capable of converting L-galactonic acid into L-threo-3-deoxy-hexulosonic acid has been cloned and heterologously expressed. The enzyme is involved in the metabolic conversion of sugar acids, which are present in biological waste material such as sugar beet pulp and other pectin comprising material. A microorganism genetically modified to effectively express said enzyme may be used in fermenting biomaterial to desired end products such as ethanol. Alternatively, microorganisms in which the gene has been inactivated may be used to produce L-galactonic acid, which accumulates when the expression of the gene is prevented.

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Helsinki, Finland

Satu Hilditch