Abstract
The optimization of L-sorbose synthesis by regiospecific dehydrogenation of D-sorbitol using Gluconobacter oxydans is reported. The current L-sorbose production processes that are based on G. oxydans and other bacterial strains are suboptimal as to yield and rate of L-sorbose synthesis. One reason for these problems is the toxicity that is induced by the substrate D-sorbitol when used in concentrations of >10% (w/v). This phenomenon significantly limits the potentials of L-sorbose production from an industrial point of view. The goal of this study was to develop a fast production process that yields L-sorbose in stoichiometric amounts starting from D-sorbitol concentrations that exceed 10% (w/v). A gradual improvement of the inoculum build-up procedure, culture medium composition, and process parameters ultimately led to a theoretically maximal L-sorbose productivity (200 g L-1 of L-sorbose from 200 g L-1 of D-sorbitol in 28 h of fermentation) using a Gluconobacter oxydans mutant strain that was selected under conditions of substrate inhibition. Because the D-sorbitol/L-sorbose bioconversion is used to mass-produce vitamin C, the procedure reported here will contribute to a more efficient and more economic synthesis of vitamin C. (C) 2000 John Wiley and Sons, Inc.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 339-343 |
Number of pages | 5 |
Journal | Biotechnology and Bioengineering |
Volume | 69 |
Issue number | 3 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - Aug 5 2000 |
Keywords
- Bioconversion
- D-sorbitol
- Fermentation
- Gluconobacter oxydans
- L-sorbose
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Biotechnology
- Microbiology