The Next Generation of Biotechnological Processes

Professor Ulrich Schwaneberg, head of the Institute of Biotechnology at RWTH Aachen University and member of the DWI scientific board, has received the research award ‘Next Generation of Biotechnological Processes – Biotechnology 2020+’. The research prize, which is awarded by the Federal Ministry of Education and Research, is worth 1.7 million Euros.

Ulrich Schwaneberg received the award for his development of a technology platform which allows utilizing production organisms for the generation of substances in organic solvents. The project runs under the name “Selective P450 and Whole-Cell Hybrid Catalyst Systems in Synthetic Biofilms.” With collaborative input from the Microgels and Hybrid Catalyst working groups led by Professor Andrij Pich (DWI) and Professor Jun Okuda (RWTH), respectively, the project uses synthetic biofilms in order to stabilize production organisms for catalysis in organic solvents.
Taking its inspiration from nature, the project makes use of nanogels, which are attached to the cells and create artificial biofilms. These films protect the cells against organic solvents without affecting the material flow too much. The nanogels are attached to the surfaces of bacteria, in this case E. coli, with the help of so-called anchor peptides.
Schwaneberg’s research project facilitates innovative processes, in particular for chemical compounds that are almost insoluble in water, such as steroids or aromatic and cyclic hydrocarbons, which are used for the synthesis of polymers, fragrances, and early-stage pharmaceuticals.

Making Scientific Breakthroughs Visible
By awarding the research prize, the Federal Ministry highlights scientific breakthroughs that enable a new generation of biotechnological processes. The prize is awarded in recognition of outstanding research results achieved at universities, research institutions, or companies. The prize money shall help to secure and expand the research expertise as well as to make it available for the development of new methods.