Study of surfactin production and metabolism in a Bacillus subtilis edited strain

Abstract

Synthetic biology has been one of the main targets of study when it comes to productions with less environmental impact. Recent studies on the biosynthesis of cyclic lipopeptides, molecules with surfactant properties and wide applicability in industries, stand out among these productions. The main challenge is to produce it quickly, sustainably, and at a low cost, which can be solved using synthetic biology tools. Bacillus subtilis is capable of producing several molecules, including surfactin, a cyclic lipopeptide. However, in its wild form, production is relatively low, requiring modifications in its genome for super production. Therefore, the objective of this project is to understand the B. subitilis nutritional demand for the synthesis of surfactin. The study will guide subsequent genetic modification in an attempt to improve the cellular availability of surfactin precursors. Therefore, one gene edition will be carried out based on the nutritional study