(Kobe University) The utilization of bioproduction to synthesize versatile chemical compounds that are usually derived from oil is vital for both the environment and resource sustainability. A Kobe University-led research team has illuminated the mechanism by which cyanobacteria produces D-lactate, which is utilized as a raw material in the production of biodegradable plastics. Subsequently, they succeeded in producing the world’s highest rate (26.6g/L) of D-lactate directly from CO2 and light by modifying the D-lactate synthesis pathway using genetic engineering.

Original source: https://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2020-03/ku-myh031020.php