Deinococci – real survivors
The French company Deinove is developing new bioprocesses, biofuels and chemicals by exploiting the unique Deinococcus genus. Text Paula Bergqvist Photos Michael J. Daly, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences
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he Deinococcus genus of bacteria has been knowns since 1956 when Arthur W. Anderson at the Oregon Agricultural Experiment Station discovered the strain in a radiated can of meat during an experiment. The bacteria had survived a very high dose of radiation. Decades of study have been devoted to the strain because of its radioresistancy. In 2006, Professor Miroslav Radman discovered the genetic basis of the robustness of Deinococci bacteria, and the molecular mechanism which enables them to repair their genome after being damaged by radiation or a major stress. It was Radman’s studies which led to the idea of using the exceptional properties of the strains – robustness and the capacity to digest complex sugars – in turning biomass into bio fuels and biochemicals. 64
Deinove’s innovation strategy is based on Professor Radman’s research, a co-owner of the company. The French greentech company is dedicated to the development and commercial exploitation of innovative processes for the production of biofuels and chemicals. It is aiming at creating breakthrough technologies in second-generation biofuel production and green chemistry. Deinove is now focusing on achieving the next milestones in its biofuel and antibiotic projects with the help of these exceptional bacteria. The company is currently selecting partners and subcontractors for its green chemistry project. “We are exploiting the exceptional properties of Deinococci for application in industrial processes,” says Angelita de Francisco, Vice President of Institutional Affairs & Licensingin at Deinove. “In tapping into the immense genetic biodiversity of the genus we have been VTT IMPULSE – BUSINESS