Metagenome Libraries to Be Screened for Enzymes

Two biotech companies have announced a joint program to screen genomes of a wide variety of microorganisms in order to identify genes that produce enzymes that may have many different commercial applications.

BRAIN Biotechnology AG (Zwingenberg, Germany) will exploit its proprietary libraries and microbial resources for screening, and will deliver characterized developmental enzyme candidates and corresponding genes to Genencor (Palo Alton, CA, USA). Genencor will evaluate the candidates and combine their knowledge base with internal capabilities to develop potential enzyme products.

Central to BRAIN's approach to discovery is its BioArchive, a comprehensive collection of molecularly characterised microorganisms stored in a ready-to-screen format and an ever growing number of "metagenome” libraries. These cloned DNA fragments represent the genomes of entire habitat-specific communities of microorganisms, more than 99% of which are generally uncultivable. They encode a wealth of novel enzymes and entire metabolic pathways.

The integration of Genencor's technology platforms--including gene discovery and functional genomics, molecular evolution and design, metabolic pathway engineering, human immunology, biomaterial production, and formulation delivery systems--is purported to allow the company to design and produce biotechnology products faster, better, and more successfully than with traditional approaches. Genencor has named its integrated technology platforms "i-biotech.” Genecor's current products are used in applications as diverse as removing stubborn stains from clothing, converting starch to the sweetener in soft drinks, stonewashing of blue jeans, and enhancing the nutritional value of grains and animal feed.
"We are happy to start a collaboration with a global leader in enzyme technology and together create product value,” said Dr. Jürgen Eck, CSO at BRAIN. "Our metagenome resources are also key to novel proprietary backbones for novel products. Our efforts and investments in building up our resource-portfolio increasingly pay off.”

"BRAIN's resources and technologies are an ideal extension of our internal natural isolate and genomic screening capabilities,” said Dr. Wolfgang Aehle, Genencor senior scientist.


Related Links:
BRAIN Biotechnology AG
Genecor