Location History:
- Chandler, AZ (US) (2014 - 2019)
- Tianjin, CN (2019)
Company Filing History:
Years Active: 2014-2019
Title: Innovations of Weiwen Zhang in Cyanobacteria Research
Introduction
Weiwen Zhang is a prominent inventor based in Chandler, AZ, known for his significant contributions to the field of genetic engineering, particularly in cyanobacteria research. With a total of four patents to his name, Zhang has made remarkable strides in enhancing the efficiency of genetic transformation and the production of valuable compounds from carbon dioxide.
Latest Patents
Zhang's latest patents include groundbreaking methods for the pre-methylation of DNA to improve genetic transformation in cyanobacteria. His work involves cloning two Type II methyltransferase-encoding genes, M (sll0729) and C (slr0214), from the chromosome of Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803. The results demonstrated that the expression of slr0214 in cells harboring integrative plasmids significantly increased the efficiency of transformation. Another notable patent focuses on the photosynthetic production of 3-hydroxybutyrate (3HB) from carbon dioxide. By constructing and expressing synthetic pathways in Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803, Zhang achieved impressive yields of (R)-3HB, showcasing the potential of engineered cyanobacteria to utilize solar energy and CO2 as primary resources.
Career Highlights
Zhang's career is marked by his innovative research at Arizona State University, where he has been instrumental in advancing the understanding of cyanobacteria and their applications in biotechnology. His work not only contributes to academic knowledge but also has practical implications for sustainable production methods.
Collaborations
Zhang has collaborated with notable colleagues, including Deirdre Meldrum and Bo Wang, enhancing the interdisciplinary nature of his research. These collaborations have fostered a rich environment for innovation and discovery in the field.
Conclusion
Weiwen Zhang's contributions to cyanobacteria research through his patents and collaborations highlight his role as a leading inventor in the field. His work paves the way for sustainable biotechnological advancements that could significantly impact environmental and industrial applications.