Engineering Escherichia coli to synthesize free fatty acids

Rebecca Lennen, Brian F. Pfleger

Research output: Contribution to journalReviewpeer-review

Abstract

Fatty acid metabolism has received significant attention as a route for producing high-energy density, liquid transportation fuels and high-value oleochemicals from renewable feedstocks. If microbes can be engineered to produce these compounds at yields that approach the theoretical limits of 0.3–0.4g/g glucose, then processes can be developed to replace current petrochemical technologies. Here, we review recent metabolic engineering efforts to maximize production of free fatty acids (FFA) in Escherichia coli, the first step towards production of downstream products. To date, metabolic engineers have succeeded in achieving higher yields of FFA than any downstream products. Regulation of fatty acid metabolism and the physiological effects of fatty acid production will also be reviewed from the perspective of identifying future engineering targets.
Original languageEnglish
JournalTrends in Biotechnology
Volume30
Issue number12
Pages (from-to)659-667
ISSN0167-7799
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2012
Externally publishedYes

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Engineering Escherichia coli to synthesize free fatty acids'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this