2024 AIChE Annual Meeting
Enhancing Cyanobacterial L-Alanine Production Via Nutritional and Process Optimization
The cyanobacterium *Synechococcus sp. PCC 7002* (PCC 7002) represents a promising photosynthetic chassis for the sustainable production of biochemicals, including L-alanine, an essential nutritional supplement. The photoautotrophic nature of PCC 7002 enables efficient utilization of light and CO2, making it a strong candidate for large-scale outdoor cultivation, particularly in nutrient-rich wastewater environments. While genetic engineering can enhance production metrics, further optimization of nutritional and process conditions is crucial. This research focuses on the influence of various nitrogen sources on L-alanine production, including urea—an abundant component of wastewater—along with traditional sources such as sodium nitrate and ammonium sulfate. The impact of light and CO2 availability on L-alanine production has also been assessed. By leveraging the robust growth and environmental stress tolerance of PCC 7002, this research contributes to more sustainable methods of amino acid production, potentially reducing production costs in the food and pharmaceutical industries.