Process for the Biotechnological Production of 2-Phenylethanols from Plant Sources

Simple SummaryContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

This invention describes a biotechnological process for producing 2-phenylethanols (notably 3-hydroxytyrosol, a powerful antioxidant) from plant-based sources such as caffeic acid. The process uses engineered microorganisms (like recombinant E. coli) expressing a specific set of enzymes to convert plant compounds through a series of biocatalytic reactions efficiently and sustainably, achieving high product yields. The method overcomes the limitations of existing extraction and chemical synthesis techniques, especially regarding cost, sustainability, and scalability.

Use CasesContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Production of 3-hydroxytyrosol as a nutraceutical or food supplement ingredient for its antioxidant properties.
• Manufacture of bio-based antioxidants for use in cosmetics and skin care products.
• Sustainable production of fine chemicals from plant waste or agricultural byproducts for the pharmaceutical or food industries.
• Creation of high-purity 2-phenylethanols for use in flavor, fragrance, or aroma chemical applications.
• Supplying antioxidants for functional foods or beverages.
• Providing antimicrobial or antiviral agents by producing derivatives with proven bioactivity.

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Enables high-yield, scalable production of valuable 2-phenylethanols from renewable plant sources rather than petrochemical feedstocks.
• Provides a greener, more sustainable alternative to chemical synthesis or direct extraction, reducing reliance on hazardous chemicals and seasonal crops.
• Reduces production cost by using inexpensive plant-derived materials and engineered microorganisms.
• Allows for higher product purity and easier downstream processing compared to extraction from complex natural mixtures.
• Minimizes batch-to-batch variability in product quality, important for pharmaceuticals and nutraceuticals.
• Facilitates conversion of plant waste or byproducts into value-added chemicals, contributing to circular bioeconomy.
• Applicable to a broad range of plant substrates, increasing flexibility and supply chain resilience.

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Patent Abstract

The invention relates to a method for the biocatalytic synthesis of 2-phenylethanols, in particular 3-hydroxytyrosol, using a whole-cell catalyst, in particular a recombinant microorganism, and to the use thereof for the biocatalytic synthesis of a 2-phenylethanol by means of a biocatalytic conversion of plant starting materials, such as cinnamic acid, in particular caffeic acid.