Genomatica: Bioengineering Spin-out in the News

This week, bioengineering startup Genomatica announced the first successful commercial-scale production of 1,4-Butanediol (BDO) using a bio-based manufacturing process. BDO is an intermediate chemical used in a wide variety of applications including athletic apparel, electronics and automotive applications.

Genomatica CEO Christophe Schilling earned his Ph.D. in Bioengineering in 2000 at the UC San Diego Jacobs School of Engineering, under the guidance of professor Bernhard Palsson, the Galetti Professor of Bioengineering in the Department of Bioengineering. Palsson is chairman of the Scientific Advisory Board of Genaomatica.

An excerpt from the Biofuels Digest story by Jim Lane.

This marks the first time that BDO–with an existing worldwide market of billions of pounds per year–has been produced biologically on this scale and at this rate. This campaign was completed less than five years from when Genomatica first demonstrated the ability for a microorganism to produce BDO in 2008. In their case, it’s modified E. coli fermentation.

Read the Genomatica Press Release: “Genomatica and DuPont Tate & Lyle Bio Products Successfully Produce 1,4-Butanediol (BDO) on Commercial Scale

Read the story in BiofuelsDigest: “Genomatica and The Art of Big Wave Surfing”

Also, check out this related Xconomy story by Bruce Bigelow: "The Road Not Taken and Genomatica’s Renewable Chemicals Strategy"