Herbicide-based selection of mutants for improved single cell protein synthesis: application and procedures
Riga Technical University, Institute of Energy Systems and Environment,
Azenes street 12/1, LV 1048 Riga, Latvia
*Correspondence: zane.kusnere@rtu.lv
Abstract:
Enhancement of industrially important microbial strains using random mutagenesis is widely used. Screening of potential mutants accelerates the selection of mutants with desired properties such as improved synthesis of lipids, carotenoids, enzymes, or increased tolerance to unfavourable conditions. However, random mutagenesis has not been used to improve protein biosynthesis in microorganisms, and a method for screening these mutants has not yet been developed. The present work reviews the new concept of using herbicides as tools for selecting mutant microorganisms with improved protein biosynthesis. Several pure herbicide substances are amino acid inhibitors whose specific action can be used as a selective pressure for screening protein-rich mutants. The article summarises information about thirteen amino acid inhibitors that inhibit microorganisms and provides data on applicable doses and specifics of use. The article contains mutagenesis protocols and mutant selection strategies, supplemented by theoretical considerations for practical application.
Key words:
amino acid inhibitors, herbicide, mutagenesis, mutant selection, protein production, single cell protein