Challenges in the Bioproduction for
Various Aromatic Compounds
Bioproduction of aromatic compounds had been difficult using conventional methods due to their strong inhibitory effects on cell growth.
However, GCC has overcome this problem by applying RITE Bioprocess technology.
They have already achieved the the world's highest level of productivity for some of the aromatic compounds listed below.
Based on this success, we will keep challeging for enhanced production of a variety of green chemicals by designing new artificial metabolic pathways.
4-Hydroxybenzoic acid
4-Hydroxybenzoic acid is a type of aromatic compound widely used as a raw material for liquid crystal polymers in electronic components and preservatives. GCC uses coryneform bacteria, which are highly resistant to 4-hydroxybenzoic acid, as the production host in our original bio-processes to achieve the world's highest level for the product titer and yield.
Shikimic acid
Shikimic acid is a compound found in the fruit of the shikimi (star anise) tree and is used as a material in the manufacture of the flu medication Tamiflu. GCC has established a bioprocess for the highly efficient production of shikimic acid from plant materials. We aim to expand its use to a wide range of applications.
Protocatechuic acid
Protocatechuic acid is useful as a pharmaceutical ingredient and functional food material. It shows promise as a compound that can be used as a raw material for fragrances (vanillin) and high-performance polymers.
GCC has established a bioprocess for the highly efficient production of protocatechuic acid from plant materials. We aim to expand its use to a wide range of applications.
Phenol
An increasing number of companies are working on global environmental protection (e.g., reducing CO2 emissions), SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals), and LCA studies (quantifying the environmental impact of products).GCC develops phenols effective in alleviating the environmental impact of products derived from raw petrochemical materials.