The article discusses the development of microbial cell factories for the production of 3-hydroxypropanoic acid (3-HP), a non-chiral three-carbon molecule that is a precursor for the production of various valuable chemicals, including acrylic acid and bioplastics. The article reviews the metabolic pathways that can be used to produce 3-HP from glycerol, specifically the CoA-dependent and CoA-independent pathways.
The article describes the various microorganisms that have been used for the production of 3-HP, including Lactobacillus reuteri, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Escherichia coli. It highlights the advantages of using L. reuteri, such as its ability to synthesize coenzyme B12, which is necessary for the production of 3-HP. The article also discusses the potential of using other lactic acid bacteria, such as Lactobacillus diolivorans and Lactobacillus collinoides, for 3-HP production.
The article summarizes the various strategies that have been employed to optimize the production of 3-HP, including the use of genetic engineering, fermentation conditions, and strain development. It highlights the importance of selecting an appropriate production host, which should be capable of tolerating organic acids and potentially toxic impurities in crude glycerol.
Overall, the article provides an overview of the current state of 3-HP production and discusses the potential for further improvements in production strains and processes.