Genetic engineering process

Datar, R. (1986). Economics of primary separation steps in relation to fermentation and genetic engineering. Process Biocbem. 21(1), 19-26. 

A challenge with any of these is the ability to obtain sufficient for commercial use. These materials are usually made by the organism in very small quantities and harvesting in bulk would be difficult. Preferred approaches are therefore either to identify the essential active molecules and synthesize these (as with mussel adhesion) or to find a way of producing these by using genetic engineering processes. 

A Chinese pubHcation (47) with 17 references reviews the use of genetically engineered microorganisms for the production of L-ascorbic acid and its precursor, 2-KGA (49). For example, a 2-keto-L-gulonic acid fermentation process from sorbose has been pubUshed with reported yields over 80% (50). 

Development of an economically viable production process for fohc acid either by genetically engineered microorganisms or by extraction from natural sources is not yet feasible. 

The process employed by RhcJ)ne-Poulenc for production of vitamin B 2 has not been revealed. However, from a variety of sources (83,86) it can be inferred that a Pseudomonas dentrificans producing over 200 mg/L is employed. The high production is the result of classical mutation as well as (possibly) genetic engineering. 

Biological processes are also being studied to investigate abiHty to remove sulfur species in order to remove potential contributors to acid rain (see Air pollution). These species include benzothiophene-type materials, which are the most difficult to remove chemically, as weU as pyritic material. The pyrite may be treated to enhance the abiHty of flotation processes to separate the mineral from the combustible parts of the coal. Genetic engineering (qv) techniques are being appHed to develop more effective species. 

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