Orthogonal Redox Cofactor for Enhanced Biomanufacturing Flexibility

Brief Description

Introducing a groundbreaking orthogonal redox cofactor, NMN+, to revolutionize redox reaction control in biomanufacturing.

Full Description

This technology establishes nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN+) as a noncanonical, orthogonal redox cofactor, alongside engineered enzymes, to precisely modulate redox reactions independent of natural metabolic pathways. This innovative approach enables the manipulation of NMNH:NMN+ ratios, facilitating the production of high-purity chemicals, such as stereo-pure 2,3-butanediol, in both cell-free systems and live E. coli cells, without interference from traditional redox systems.

Suggested uses

• Biomanufacturing of renewable chemicals and biofuels. 
• Production of stereo-pure pharmaceuticals and fine chemicals. 
• Development of cell-free synthetic biochemistry platforms. 
• Enhanced metabolic engineering for improved yield, titer, and productivity of bioproducts. 
• Customizable biocatalyst design for a wide range of industrial applications.

Advantages

• Enables precise control of redox reaction directions, decoupled from natural metabolic processes. 
• Facilitates the production of high-purity, stereo-specific biochemicals. 
• Offers a cost-effective alternative to traditional cofactors with enhanced stability and efficiency. 
• Supports the development of orthogonal metabolic systems for improved biomanufacturing processes. 
• Potential to vastly expand the range of bio-manufacturable products through flexible, efficient redox control.

Related Materials

• Aspacio, D., et al. Li, H. (2024). Shifting redox reaction equilibria on demand using an orthogonal redox cofactor. Nat. Chem. Biol. 20.