Critical limitations in biological production of chemicals: process or genetic solutions?

Abstract

Abstract: Production of bulk chemicals by biological processes is presently limited by failure of contemporary biological and bioreactor technology to deliver high product concentrations in high space‐time yields in fluids of sufficiently low water content for subsequent down‐stream processing operations. Limitations in the bioreactor portion of the process can arise due to failure to process sufficient substrate, substrate inhibition, inadequate rates or yields, and product inhibition. Various process approaches for addressing many of these limitations have been demonstrated or conceptualized. Less developed but potentially effective are genetic strategies addressing these process limitations. Ideally, the most effective combination of genetic and process approaches should be integrated in a synergistic fashion to maximize the economic potential of biological production of chemicals. Copyright © 1995, Wiley Blackwell. All rights reserved