Synthetic Biology and Materials Science Part 2: Nature-Made Plastics

In the previous tutorial we outlined the basics regarding synthetic biology as applied to materials science. We can engineer microorganisms that will produce virtually any compound we want, via a series of reactions that are catalyzed by enzymes programmed into the microorganism. So what is an example of such a compound that we wish to produce? Let's look at Tulipalin A, which can be used to manufacture plastics, thereby eliminating the need for crude oil as a starting material. This is the precise task that is being worked on over at biotech firm Arzeda. What does this process look like? What are the challenges? Let's get a closer look now.

Special thanks to Dr. Aaron Korkegian at Arzeda for consultation regarding the contents of this video.

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