MicroTec: Enhanced Microbial Metabolism via Innovative Technologies

Microbial conversion processes are now more important than ever in industry due to their high efficiency and the ability to perform complex reactions. The optimization of such processes is in essence obtained by tuning the microbial metabolism to favour the desired conversion. Changing the microbial metabolism can be achieved, e.g., by altering the environmental conditions in which the process takes place. A wide array of innovative technologies is currently under development for the inactivation of undesired microorganisms. The same technologies could also be used to influence the microbial metabolism towards the stimulation of desired processes. Among these technologies are cold atmospheric plasma and an array of electromagnetic radiations such as visible light and radio frequency. This project will study the potential of applying these novel treatments under non-lethal dosages to benefit specific metabolic processes. This research offers great prospects for future industrial applications by tapping into the potential of innovative technologies to enhance microbial conversion processes.