Experimental investigations on metabolic and transcriptomic profiling of Rhodococcus opacus cultivated on lignin stream

In recent years, lignin valorization has gained increasing attention in both academic and industrial sectors, hoping to achieve salient breakthroughs in lignin metabolism. Many studies have pointed to a promising approach using microorganisms particularly bacteria for lignin valorization through a bio-funneling approach, converting it into products of biotechnological interests. Thus, this project aims to contribute to advancements in the bioconversion of lignin stream (upstream and downstream), a highly abundant industrial by-product in both Canada and Brazil, which is currently burnt for heat and electricity production in the paper mills, posing significant environmental risks. This project will essentially focus on understanding the genetic and metabolic mechanisms involved in converting phenolics and lignin by Rhodococcus opacus, a bacteria capable of consuming aromatic compounds and producing lipids from this substrate.

Faculty Supervisor:

Flavia Braghiroli

Student:

Partner:

Universidade de São Paulo

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

Education

University:

Université du Québec en Abitibi-Témiscamingue

Program: