Research Topic: genetic engineering

Genetic Ablation of the Conidiogenesis Regulator Enhances Mycoprotein Production

mycolabadmin

Scientists created a genetically modified version of the Quorn fungus (Fusarium venenatum) by removing a gene that controls spore production. This modification caused the fungus to grow faster and produce more biomass while also containing higher levels of amino acids. When combined with another genetic modification, the fungus produced 22% more biomass than normal, which could significantly reduce costs for mycoprotein production used in meat alternative products.

Read More »

Aokap9 gene knockout contributes to kojic acid synthesis in Aspergillus oryzae

mycolabadmin

Researchers discovered that removing the Aokap9 gene in the fungus Aspergillus oryzae doubles the production of kojic acid, a valuable chemical used in skin-whitening cosmetics and food preservation. By combining the Aokap9 gene removal with modifications to other genes (kojR and AozfA), they achieved even higher production levels. This research provides a practical pathway for creating high-yield strains that can produce kojic acid more efficiently for commercial applications.

Read More »

Identification and functional analysis of the SET domain-containing gene family in Cordyceps militaris

mycolabadmin

Researchers identified 22 genes in the medicinal fungus Cordyceps militaris that control how genetic information is accessed through histone modifications. By studying how these genes respond to salt and amino acid treatments, they found that two specific genes (CmSET14 and CmSET16) are linked to cordycepin production, a compound with potential anti-cancer properties. When these genes were enhanced in the fungus, cordycepin production increased significantly, offering a new strategy to boost production of this valuable medicinal compound.

Read More »

Expression pattern, subcellular localization of Aspergillus oryzae ergosterol synthases, and their effects on ergosterol and fatty acid metabolism

mycolabadmin

Researchers studied how Aspergillus oryzae fungi make ergosterol, a key ingredient in fungal cell membranes. They found that this process is much more complex in this mold than in baker’s yeast, with 49 genes involved. By selectively increasing expression of specific genes, they were able to boost ergosterol production by up to 2.3 times, which could have applications in producing fungal-derived medicines and improving fermented foods.

Read More »
Scroll to Top