Sophie Defretin

Title: The Innovative Contributions of Sophie Defretin

Introduction

Sophie Defretin is a notable inventor based in Béthune, France. She has made significant contributions to the field of biotechnology, particularly in the production of xylitol. With a total of 6 patents to her name, her work has garnered attention for its innovative approaches and applications.

Latest Patents

One of her latest patents focuses on the production of xylitol from glucose using a recombinant strain. This invention involves a recombinant microbial host that contains a nucleic acid sequence encoding a NAD-specific D-arabitol 4-oxidoreductase (EC 1.1.1.11). This enzyme utilizes D-arabitol as a substrate to produce D-xylulose, which is then converted into xylitol by a NADPH-specific xylitol dehydrogenase. This innovative process highlights her expertise in microbial biotechnology and its applications in producing valuable sugar alcohols.

Career Highlights

Throughout her career, Sophie has worked with prominent companies in the biotechnology sector. Notably, she has been associated with Roquette Frères and Corbion Biotech, Inc. These experiences have allowed her to apply her research in practical settings, contributing to advancements in food and pharmaceutical industries.

Collaborations

Sophie has collaborated with talented individuals in her field, including Astrid Schaefer and Melanie Diefenbacher. These partnerships have fostered a collaborative environment that encourages innovation and the sharing of ideas.

Conclusion

Sophie Defretin's contributions to biotechnology, particularly in the production of xylitol, showcase her innovative spirit and dedication to advancing scientific knowledge. Her work continues to impact the industry positively, and her patents reflect her commitment to innovation.