Modified photosynthetic microorganisms with reduced glycogen and their use in producing carbon-based products

US8835137B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• Matrix Genetics, LLC · US

Inventors

• James Roberts · Seattle, US
• Fred Cross · Seattle, US
• Paul Warrener · Seattle, US
• Kimberly Marie Kotovic · Seattle, US
• Margaret Mary McCormick · Seattle, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Dec 22, 2009
• Grant date: Sep 16, 2014
• Expiry date: Mar 31, 2030

Classification

• Technology area (CPC Y): Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
• CPC primary: Y02E50/10
• WIPO field: Biotechnology
• WIPO sector: Chemistry

Abstract

This disclosure describes genetically modified photosynthetic microorganisms, including Cyanobacteria, that contain one or more mutations or deletions in a glycogen biosynthesis or storage pathway, which accumulate a reduced amount of glycogen as compared to a wild type Cyanobacterium, and which are capable of producing an increased amount of lipids and/or fatty acids. In certain embodiments, the genetically modified photosynthetic microorganisms also contain one or more exogenous genes encoding a diacyglycerol acyltransferase, a phosphatidate phosphatase, and/or an acetyl-CoA carboxylase, and which are capable of producing increased amounts of lipids or fatty acids and/or synthesizing triglycerides.