Innovation

MISSION will combine systems and synthetic biology with advanced bioengineering tools to generate a multilayer-based technology that will generate the following innovations:

Panel of hyperproducing chassis based on the industrial oxytetracycline producer: The reduction and tuning of the genomes of this chassis are expected to increase the stability of the cells in long-term fermentations and to channel more metabolic potential to the biosynthesis of heterologous biomolecules.

Highly efficient synthetic metabolic pathways: Genomic interventions in a fine-tuned, advanced cell are expected to disrupt existing regulatory networks that control various metabolic processes. We will generate synthetic operons that produce sufficient amounts of target product precursors.

High-value bioactive small molecules: MISSION will provide access to several bioactive molecules and their derivatives (e.g. griselimycin, indolocarbazoles, myxopyronin, and cyclooctatin) via the expression of their corresponding biosynthetic gene clusters in the developed chassis. These molecules will be channelled into the development pipelines of the industrial partners.

Systems biology optimisation: MISSION will provide a technology pipeline that recruits multi-omics data, modelling and data translation technologies for knowledge-based development that will enable access to complex natural products. The envisioned achievements will generate excellent opportunities for high-tech SMEs to enter into this currently high-risk field by supplying validated innovative approaches at different points in the value chain.

Production of clavulanic acid: Industrial partner Novartis (Lek) will use the new expression platform for production of clavulanic acid, their established, highly relevant medicinal product. The production will be demonstrated in an industrially relevant environment.