Our project in brief
We reshape morphology in filamentous fungi to aid industrial production of proteins and small molecules. We also develop new signal peptides to aid protein secretion. By improving the efficiency of bio-based production processes, we can improve the economic incentives to use them, thereby decreasing our reliance on oil-based substrates.
Motivation
The importance of economics in the bio-industry
We want to improve the efficiency of protein production and secretion in Aspergillus niger. Why
That is why we want to tackle the issue of morphology control and signal peptides.
As a proof of concept, we have chosen Aspergillus niger for our work. Aspergillus is a staple industry chassis for manufacturing, our previous iGEM teams have developed parts and protocols for it, and our university department has many experts in Aspergillus species - and filamentous fungi in general.
Problem
Dissecting the problem of morphological control
We talk about improving efficiency from changing morphology, but what exactly happens between those two steps?
Turns out, in fermentations, the following happens (wetlab you gotta figure this out lmao).
In order to change morphology, we need:
In addition, we worked with signal peptides next to