In the heart of Thailand, researchers at the Center of Excellence, Agro-Bio-Circular-Green Industry (Agro-BCG) & Bioprocess Research Cluster (BRC), School of Agro-Industry, Faculty of Agro-Industry, Chiang Mai University, are making waves in the field of biotransformation. Led by Rojarej Nunta, the team has developed a groundbreaking method for enhancing the production of phenylacetylcarbinol (PAC), a crucial precursor in the pharmaceutical industry. Their innovative approach combines ultrasonic treatment with a dipropylene glycol-mediated biphasic emulsion system, opening new avenues for sustainable and efficient chemical production.
The research, recently published in Scientific Reports, focuses on the biotransformation of PAC using disrupted yeast cells. The team discovered that high-power ultrasonication at 20% amplitude (Ult20) was the most effective method for releasing the intracellular pyruvate decarboxylase (PDC) enzyme, which is essential for PAC production. This method resulted in significantly higher volumetric and specific PDC activities compared to traditional glass bead attrition.
“Ultrasonication at 20% amplitude proved to be the most effective, resulting in the highest volumetric and specific PDC activities,” Nunta explained. “This method not only enhances the release of PDC but also improves the initial PAC production rate, making it a promising approach for industrial applications.”
The study also explored the use of different organic phases in a two-phase emulsion system for PAC biotransformation. The addition of dipropylene glycol (DPG) to vegetable oil (Vg-Oil) significantly improved the overall PAC concentration, reaching 28.9 ± 0.1 mM. This novel addition of DPG facilitated the partitioning of PAC into the aqueous phase, stabilizing specific PDC activity and specific PAC productivity.
The implications of this research are far-reaching. By optimizing the biotransformation process, the team has paved the way for more efficient and sustainable production of high-value chemicals. This could revolutionize the pharmaceutical industry, reducing reliance on traditional chemical synthesis methods that often involve harsh conditions and generate significant waste.
The findings also have broader implications for the energy sector. The efficient production of PAC and other high-value chemicals through biotransformation could lead to the development of bio-based products that reduce dependence on fossil fuels. This aligns with the growing trend towards sustainable agriculture and resource efficiency, promoting a circular economy where waste is minimized, and resources are recycled.
As the world continues to seek sustainable solutions, the work of Nunta and her team at Chiang Mai University offers a glimpse into the future of biotransformation. Their innovative approach not only enhances the production of valuable chemicals but also sets a new standard for sustainable and efficient industrial processes. With further development, this research could shape the future of the chemical industry, driving towards a greener and more resource-efficient world.