Transformants Patents (Class 435/257.2)
  • Patent number: 8865442
    Abstract: This invention relates to methods for producing isoprene by culturing recombinant cells (e.g., cells engineered to produce isoprene) under reduced oxygen inlet levels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2014
    Assignees: Danisco US Inc., The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company
    Inventors: Gopal K. Chotani, Brian Kirshner, Jacob Latone, Jeff P. Pucci
  • Patent number: 8865451
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to transgenic algae having increased growth characteristics, and methods of increasing growth characteristics of algae. In particular, the disclosure relates to transgenic algae comprising a glutamine phenylpyruvate transaminase transgene and to transgenic algae comprising a glutamine phenylpyruvate transaminase transgene and a glutamine synthetase.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2014
    Assignees: Los Alamos National Security, LLC, University of Maine System Board of Trustees
    Inventors: Pat J. Unkefer, Penelope S. Anderson, Thomas J. Knight
  • Publication number: 20140308731
    Abstract: Two novel cytochrome P450 genes are isolated from sorghum, each gene encoding a protein having pentadecatrienyl resorcinol hydroxylase activity. Expression vectors containing these sequences are made and used to elevate levels of pentadecatrienyl resorcinol hydroxylase in transgenic cells and organisms.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 15, 2013
    Publication date: October 16, 2014
    Inventor: The United States of America, as Represented by the Secretary of Agriculture
  • Publication number: 20140302025
    Abstract: Provided are chimeric VEGF-binding proteins and nucleic acids (e.g., a vector) encoding chimeric VEGF-binding proteins, methods and host cells for producing these proteins and nucleic acids, and pharmaceutical compositions containing these proteins and nucleic acids. Also provided are methods of treating an angiogenic disease or disorder that include administering at least one of the chimeric VEGF-binding proteins or at least one of the nucleic acids (e.g., a vector) encoding a chimeric VEGF-bind ing protein.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 17, 2012
    Publication date: October 9, 2014
    Applicants: CHILDREN'S MEDICAL CENTER CORPORATION, THE GENERAL HOSPITAL CORPORATION, PRESIDENT AND FELLOWS OF HARVARD COLLEGE
    Inventors: Bob Carter, Jeng-Shin Lee, Szofia S. Bullain, Richard C. Mulligan
  • Publication number: 20140302583
    Abstract: DNA constructs as well as methods for the production of unicellular organisms capable of producing hydrogen peroxide resistance proteins are disclosed. DNA constructs as well as methods for integration of the DNA constructs into the genomes of unicellular organisms for the expression of hydrogen peroxide production proteins are also disclosed. In addition, DNA constructs as well as methods for integration of the DNA constructs into the genomes of unicellular organisms for the expression of hydrogen peroxide resistance and hydrogen peroxide production proteins are disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 4, 2012
    Publication date: October 9, 2014
    Inventors: Stephen K. Herbert, Levi G. Lowder
  • Patent number: 8852885
    Abstract: Methods and compositions for the production of oil, fuels, oleochemicals, and other compounds in recombinant microorganisms are provided, including oil-bearing microorganisms and methods of low cost cultivation of such microorganisms. Microalgal cells containing exogenous genes encoding, for example, a lipase, a sucrose transporter, a sucrose invertase, a fructokinase, a polysaccharide-degrading enzyme, a keto acyl-ACP synthase enzyme, a fatty acyl-ACP thioesterase, a fatty acyl-CoA/aldehyde reductase, a fatty acyl-CoA reductase, a fatty aldehyde reductase, a fatty acid hydroxylase, a desaturase enzyme, a fatty aldehyde decarbonylase, and/or an acyl carrier protein are useful in manufacturing transportation fuels such as renewable diesel, biodiesel, and renewable jet fuel, as well as oleochemicals such as functional fluids, surfactants, soaps and lubricants.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2014
    Assignee: Solazyme, Inc.
    Inventors: Scott Franklin, Aravind Somanchi, Janice Wee, George Rudenko, Jeffrey L. Moseley, Walt Rakitsky, Xinhua Zhao, Riyaz Bhat
  • Publication number: 20140295520
    Abstract: This disclosure describes a cell that includes an engineered subcellular compartment that generally includes a proteinaceous shell that includes at least one bacterial microcompartment (BMC) polypeptide. In some embodiments, the engineered subcellular compartment can further include one or more targeted enzymes. We further describe methods of making and using such cells.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 25, 2012
    Publication date: October 2, 2014
    Applicant: REGENTS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA
    Inventors: Claudia Margarete Schmidt-Dannert, Swati Choudhary Saurkar, Maureen Blacker Quin, Mark Anton Held
  • Publication number: 20140296137
    Abstract: Described herein are compositions and methods for controlling, inhibiting, reducing and/or preventing rotifer growth with antimicrobial peptides. Methods for removing and/or preventing rotifer infestations in algae cultivations by controlling, inhibiting, reducing and/or preventing rotifer growth with an antimicrobial peptide (AMP) are further provided. Also described are transgenic algae comprising an expression vector comprising a nucleic acid sequence encoding an AMP. In some instances, the nucleic acid sequence encoding the AMP is codon-optimized for expression in algae.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 31, 2014
    Publication date: October 2, 2014
    Inventors: Sathish Rajamani, Richard T. Sayre
  • Patent number: 8846375
    Abstract: Recombinant DNA techniques are used to produce oleaginous recombinant cells that produce triglyceride oils having desired fatty acid profiles and regiospecific or stereospecific profiles. Genes manipulated include those encoding stearoyl-ACP desturase, delta 12 fatty acid desaturase, acyl-ACP thioesterase, ketoacyl-ACP synthase, and lysophosphatidic acid acyltransferase. The oil produced can have enhanced oxidative or thermal stability, or can be useful as a frying oil, shortening, roll-in shortening, tempering fat, cocoa butter replacement, as a lubricant, or as a feedstock for various chemical processes. The fatty acid profile can be enriched in midchain profiles or the oil can be enriched in triglycerides of the saturated-unsaturated-saturated type.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2014
    Assignee: Solazyme, Inc.
    Inventors: Scott Franklin, Aravind Somanchi, George Rudenko, Riyaz Bhat, Xinhua Zhao, Risha Bond, Walter Rakitsky, Alejandro Marangoni, Diza Braksmayer
  • Patent number: 8846370
    Abstract: The described invention provides genetically engineered microorganisms, including photosynthetic microorganisms, expressing 4-hydroxybenzoyl-CoA thioesterases and methods of using the genetically engineered microorganisms for producing free fatty acids and/or fatty acid derivatives.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2014
    Assignee: ExxonMobil Research and Engineering Company
    Inventors: Robert Christopher Brown, Rekha Seshadri, Carlos Chavez-Torres, Weidong Xu, Toby Richardson
  • Patent number: 8846352
    Abstract: The invention provides methods of cultivating oil-bearing microbes using xylose as a fixed carbon source. Also provided are microorganisms that have been genetically engineered to metabolize xylose as a fixed carbon source allowing them to convert xylose into oils. Particular advantages of the processes provided herein include production of oils rather than alcohols through the microbial fermentation processes utilizing xylose.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2014
    Assignee: Solazyme, Inc.
    Inventors: Penelope Chua, Aravind Somanchi
  • Publication number: 20140288320
    Abstract: The invention features plant acyl-ACP thioesterase genes of the FatB class and proteins encoded by these genes. The genes are useful for constructing recombinant host cells having altered fatty acid profiles. Oleaginous microalga host cells with the new genes or previously identified FatB genes are disclosed. The microalgae cells produce triglycerides with useful fatty acid profiles.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2014
    Publication date: September 25, 2014
    Applicant: Solazyme, Inc.
    Inventors: George N. Rudenko, Jason Casolari, Scott Franklin
  • Publication number: 20140289904
    Abstract: Disclosed are novel acyl-CoA synthetases and novel acyltransferases, nucleic acid molecules encoding the same, recombinant nucleic acid molecules and recombinant host cells comprising such nucleic acid molecules, genetically modified organisms (microorganisms and plants) comprising the same, and methods of making and using the same. Also disclosed are genetically modified organisms (e.g., plants, microorganisms) that have been genetically modified to express a PKS-like system for the production of PUFAs (a PUFA PKS system or PUFA synthase), wherein the organisms have been modified to express an acyl-CoA synthetase, to express an acyl transferase, to delete or inactivate a fatty acid synthase (FAS) expressed by the organism, to reduce competition for malonyl CoA with the PUFA synthase or to increase the level of malonyl CoA in the organism, and in one aspect, to inhibit KASII or KASIII.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 21, 2013
    Publication date: September 25, 2014
    Applicant: DSM IP Assets B.V.
    Inventors: James G. METZ, Jerry M. Kuner, James Casey Lippmeier
  • Publication number: 20140273175
    Abstract: A method of rapid simultaneous inoculation of cyanobacteria to multiple commercial-scale closed photobioreactors for the production of a target molecule such as ethanol.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 31, 2013
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Applicant: Algenol Biofuels Inc.
    Inventors: Brendan SCOTT, George MEICHEL, Jesse PHILLIPS-KRESS, Jessica BLANKS
  • Publication number: 20140273113
    Abstract: Chlorophyll deficient algal strains, methods of making chlorophyll deficient algal strains, and methods of their use are provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 18, 2014
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Applicant: Aurora Algae, Inc.
    Inventors: Bertrand Vick, Yuen Yee Tam
  • Publication number: 20140273144
    Abstract: Provided herein are compositions and methods for improved production of acetyl-CoA and acetyl-CoA derived compounds in a host cell. In some embodiments, the host cell is genetically modified to comprise a heterologous nucleotide sequence encoding a phosphoketolase (PK), and a functional disruption of an endogenous enzyme that converts acetyl phosphate to acetate. In some embodiments, the host cell further comprises a heterologous nucleotide sequence encoding a phosphotransacetylase (PTA). In some embodiments, the enzyme that converts acetyl phosphate to acetate is a glycerol-1-phosphatase. In some embodiments, the glycerol-1-phosphatase is GPP1/RHR2. In some embodiments, the glycerol-1-phosphatase is GPP2/HOR2. The compositions and methods described herein provide an efficient route for the heterologous production of acetyl-CoA-derived compounds, including but not limited to, isoprenoids, polyketides, and fatty acids.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2014
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Inventors: Kristy Michelle Hawkins, Tina Tipawan Mahatdejkul-Meadows, Adam Leon Meadows, Lauren Barbara Pickens, Anna Tai, Annie Ening Tsong
  • Publication number: 20140275487
    Abstract: The present invention relates to the field of G protein coupled receptor (GPCR) structural biology and signaling. In particular, the present invention relates to binding domains directed against and/or specifically binding to GPCR:G protein complexes. Also provided are nucleic acid sequences encoding such binding domains and cells expressing or capable of expressing such binding domains. The binding domains of the present invention can be used as universal tools for the structural and functional characterization of G-protein coupled receptors in complex with downstream heterotrimeric G proteins and bound to various natural or synthetic ligands, for investigating the dynamic features of G protein activation, as well as for screening and drug discovery efforts that make use of GPCR:G protein complexes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 21, 2012
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Inventors: Jan Steyaert, Els Pardon, Toon Laeremans, Brian Kobilka, Søren Rasmussen, Sébastien Granier, Roger K. Sunahara
  • Publication number: 20140273132
    Abstract: A process is described for the creation of an inoculum for an organism capable of photosynthesis of a target compound within a closed bioreactor, involving steps of transfer of a sterile growth medium under pressure without exposure to atmosphere. The process is useful for the creation of inocula for the growth of cyanobacteria to produce target chemical products, such as ethanol, in closed photobioreactors.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 6, 2013
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Applicant: Algenol Biofuels Inc.
    Inventors: Jessica BLANKS, Harlan L. MILLER, III
  • Publication number: 20140275586
    Abstract: The invention features plant acyl-ACP thioesterase genes of the FatB class and proteins encoded by these genes. The genes are useful for constructing recombinant host cells having altered fatty acid profiles. Oleaginous microalga host cells with the new genes or previously identified FatB genes are disclosed. The microalgae cells produce triglycerides with useful fatty acid profiles.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Inventors: George N. Rudenko, Jason Casolari, Scott Franklin
  • Publication number: 20140272949
    Abstract: Methods and compositions are provided for the full segregation of recombinant marine cyanobacteria.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Applicant: ALGENOL BIOFUELS INC.
    Inventors: Ming-De Deng, Alexandra Friedrich, Kerstin Baier, Nien-Hsi Ko
  • Publication number: 20140256009
    Abstract: Described is a method for the enzymatic production of butadiene which allows to produce butadiene from crotyl alcohol. Also described are enzyme combinations and compositions containing such enzyme combinations which allow the enzymatic conversion of crotyl alcohol into butadiene. Furthermore, the invention relates to microorganisms which have been genetically modified so as to be able to produce butadiene from crotyl alcohol. Moreover, the invention relates to a method for the enzymatic production of crotyl alcohol from crotonyl-Coenzyme A. The obtained crotyl alcohol can be further converted into butadiene as described herein. Also described are enzyme combinations which allow to convert crotonyl-Coenzyme A into crotyl alcohol as well as (micro)organisms which express such enzyme combinations.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 18, 2012
    Publication date: September 11, 2014
    Applicant: SCIENTIST OF FORTUNE, S.A.
    Inventor: Philippe Marliere
  • Publication number: 20140256024
    Abstract: Novel gene sequences from microalgae are disclosed, as well as novel gene sequences useful in the manufacture of triglyceride oils. Also disclosed are sequences and vectors that allow microalgae to be cultivated on sugar cane and sugar beets as a feedstock. In some embodiments, the vectors are useful for the purpose of performing targeted modifications to the nuclear genome of heterotrophic microalgae.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 22, 2014
    Publication date: September 11, 2014
    Applicant: Solazyme, Inc.
    Inventors: Scott Franklin, Aravind Somanchi, Karen Espina, George Rudenko, Penelope Chua
  • Publication number: 20140248675
    Abstract: The present invention provides novels genes encoding methyl butenol (MBO) synthase, methy butenol synthases and their use in methyl butenol production.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 6, 2014
    Publication date: September 4, 2014
    Applicant: Board of Trustees of Michigan State University
    Inventors: Dennis Gray, Thomas D. Sharkey
  • Patent number: 8822181
    Abstract: A method for forming a fusion protein that is expressed as a recombinant protein body-like assembly in host eukaryotic cells and organisms other than higher plants as host systems is disclosed. More particularly, peptides and proteins are fused to protein sequences that mediate the induction of recombinant protein body-like assembly (RPBLA) formation, are stably expressed and accumulated in these host cells after transformation with an appropriate vector. Methods for preparing the fusion protein are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2014
    Assignee: ERA Biotech S.A.
    Inventors: Margarita Torrent, Miriam Bastida, Pablo Marzábal, Blanca Llompart, Ma Dolores Ludevid
  • Patent number: 8815568
    Abstract: The invention provides eukaryotic unicellular algae engineered to express a nucleosome alteration protein fused to a protein with affinity to the DNA binding site acting in coordination. An example is a LexA-p300 fusion protein, where the p300 is derived from Chlamydomonas. The LexA binding domain guides the p300 to the binding site and the p300 loosens the nucleosome structure by acetylating histones within proximity of the transgene, thus remodeling the local chromatin structure to allow for high-level expression.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2014
    Assignee: Synaptic Research, LLC
    Inventors: George Oyler, Julian Rosenberg
  • Publication number: 20140234920
    Abstract: The present invention relates to variant thioesterases and their use in plants, e.g., to increase enzymatic activity and to promote increased production of mid-chain length fatty acids (e.g., 8 to 14 carbons) and at desired ratios. Further disclosed herein are methods of manufacturing renewable chemicals through the manufacture of novel triglyceride oils followed by chemical modification of the oils. Oils containing fatty acid chain lengths of C8, C10, C12 or C14 are also disclosed and are useful as feedstocks in the methods described herein.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 29, 2014
    Publication date: August 21, 2014
    Applicant: Solazyme, Inc.
    Inventor: David DAVIS
  • Publication number: 20140237689
    Abstract: The present invention provides metabolic regulators, which are proteins (such as fusion proteins, truncated proteins or full-length proteins) that bind to specific metabolites and which can be used to control the availability of the metabolites in cells, particularly plant cells. Proteins of the invention include one or more metabolic regulator proteins, can be truncated or full length, can further comprise a transmembrane domain or lipoylation site or can further comprise a transit peptide. Metabolic regulators of the invention can be soluble, e.g., cytosolic soluble, can be anchored to a biological membrane or can be organelle targeted or apoplastic targeted. The present invention also provides nucleic acid molecules encoding the metabolic regulators, methods of making the nucleic acid molecules, methods for making transformed organisms, including plants, photosynthetic organisms, microbes, invertebrates, and vertebrates, and methods for controlling availability of metabolites to a host cell.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 2, 2014
    Publication date: August 21, 2014
    Applicant: PLANT SENSORY SYSTEMS, LLC
    Inventors: Frank J. Turano, Kathleen A. Turano
  • Publication number: 20140234976
    Abstract: The present invention provides a protein, specifically Parietochloris incisa acetohydroxyacid synthase, and methods for producing branched-chain amino acid in a cell. The present invention further provides polypeptides and polynucleotides useful for conferring herbicide resistance in a cell or an organism. In particular, the present invention discloses a mutated acetohydroxyacid synthase which is resistant to herbicides.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 4, 2012
    Publication date: August 21, 2014
    Applicant: BEN-GURION UNIVERSITY OF THE NEGEV RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY
    Inventors: Omer Grundman, Inna Khozin-Goldberg, Zvi Hacohen, Michal Shapira, Dina Raveh, Sammy Boussiba, Boris Zorin
  • Publication number: 20140234941
    Abstract: The present invention provides a novel phosphatidic acid phosphatase gene. The object of the present invention can be solved by providing a nucleic acid comprising the nucleotide sequence set forth in SEQ ID NO: 1, SEQ ID NO: 4, or SEQ ID NO: 5; a protein comprising the amino acid sequence set forth in SEQ ID NO: 2; and mutants thereof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 27, 2012
    Publication date: August 21, 2014
    Applicant: SUNTORY HOLDINGS LIMITED
    Inventor: Misa Ochiai
  • Patent number: 8802407
    Abstract: The present invention provides methods and compositions for producing isoprene hydrocarbons from cyanobacteria.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2014
    Assignee: The Regents of the University of California
    Inventors: Anastasios Melis, Pia Lindberg
  • Publication number: 20140223610
    Abstract: The present invention relates to bio-engineered photosystems, specifically photosystem II (PSII) having an alternative electron transfer pathway that enables electron flow from PSII to a water-soluble protein electron carrier. The present invention further relates to methods and systems for electron transfer using the bio-engineered photosystems. Such photosystems may be utilized for electrical energy production, hydrogen production and/or reduction of carbon-based gases (for example, CO2 and CO) to liquid fuels.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 18, 2014
    Publication date: August 7, 2014
    Applicant: TECHNION RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT FOUNDATION, LTD.
    Inventors: Noam ADIR, Gadi SCHUSTER, Shirley LAROM, Faris SALAMA
  • Publication number: 20140220638
    Abstract: Mutant photosynthetic microorganisms having reduced chlorophyll and increased photosynthetic efficiency are provided. The mutants have a locked in high light-acclimated phenotype, in which many of the photosynthetic parameters characteristic of high light acclimated wild type cells are found in the LIHLA mutants when acclimated to low light, such as reduced chlorophyll, reduced NPQ, higher qP, higher Ek, higher Pmax per unit chlorophyll with little to no reduction in Pmax per cell, and higher rates of electron transport through photosystem II over a wide range of light intensities. Provided herein are constructs for attenuating or disrupting genes are provided for generating mutants having the LIHLA phenotype. Also provided are methods of culturing LIHLA mutants for the production of biomass or other products.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 6, 2013
    Publication date: August 7, 2014
    Applicant: Synthetic Genomics, Inc.
    Inventors: Shaun Bailey, Jay McCarren, Soyan Leung Lieberman, Jonathan E. Meuser, Anna E. Romano, Daniel Yee, Leah Soriaga, Robert C. Brown, Joseph C. Weissman, Roger C. Prince, Robert D. Nielsen, Ariel S. Schwartz
  • Publication number: 20140219971
    Abstract: The present invention relates to the production of malaria transmission blocking vaccines in single-celled green algae, particularly algae of the genus Chlamydomonas, e.g., Chlamydomonas reinhardtii; the immunogenic Plasmodium polypeptides produced and compositions comprising them; and methods for preventing, ameliorating, reducing, delaying, treating and blocking the transmission of malaria by administration of immunogenic Plasmodium polypeptides produced in an algal host cell.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 1, 2012
    Publication date: August 7, 2014
    Applicant: THE REGENTS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA
    Inventors: Stephen P. Mayfield, James A. Gregory, Carla S. Jones, Michael J. Hannon
  • Publication number: 20140215654
    Abstract: The present invention relates to variant thioesterases and their use in plants, e.g., to increase enzymatic activity and to promote increased production of mid-chain length fatty acids (e.g., 8 to 14 carbons) and at desired ratios. Further disclosed herein are methods of manufacturing renewable chemicals through the manufacture of novel triglyceride oils followed by chemical modification of the oils. Oils containing fatty acid chain lengths of C8, C10, C12 or C14 are also disclosed and are useful as feedstocks in the methods described herein.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2013
    Publication date: July 31, 2014
    Inventor: David Davis
  • Publication number: 20140212942
    Abstract: Described is a method for generating conjugated dienes through a biological process. More specifically, the application describes a method for producing conjugated dienes (for example butadiene, isoprene or dimethylbutadiene) from light alkenols via enzymatic dehydration, in particular by making use of an alkenol dehydratase.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 9, 2014
    Publication date: July 31, 2014
    Applicant: SCIENTIST OF FORTUNE, S.A.
    Inventor: Phillippe Marliere
  • Publication number: 20140213826
    Abstract: The present disclosure identifies methods and compositions for modifying photoautotrophic organisms as hosts, such that the organisms efficiently produce alkanes, and in particular the use of such organisms for the commercial production of alkanes and related molecules. Other materials, methods, and compositions are also described.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 27, 2014
    Publication date: July 31, 2014
    Applicant: Joule Unlimited Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Frank Anthony Skraly, Ning Li
  • Publication number: 20140206620
    Abstract: The invention provides T cell receptors (TCRs) having antigenic specificity for a cancer antigen, e.g., tyrosinase. Also provided are related polypeptides, proteins, nucleic acids, recombinant expression vectors, isolated host cells, populations of cells, and pharmaceutical compositions. The invention further provides a method of detecting the presence of cancer in a host and a method of treating or preventing cancer in a host using the inventive TCRs or related materials.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 21, 2014
    Publication date: July 24, 2014
    Applicant: The United States of America, as represented by the Secretary, Department of Health and Human Serv
    Inventors: Steven A. Rosenberg, Richard A. Morgan, Timothy L. Frankel
  • Patent number: 8785159
    Abstract: Nucleic acids encoding secretion signals, expression vectors containing the nucleic acids, and host cells containing the expression vectors are disclosed. Also disclosed are polypeptides that contain the secretion signals and methods of producing polypeptides, including methods of directing the extracellular secretion of the polypeptides. Exemplary embodiments include cellulase proteins fused to secretion signals, methods to produce and isolate these polypeptides, and methods to degrade lignocellulosic biomass.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2014
    Assignee: Alliance for Sustainable Energy, LLC
    Inventors: Jeffrey G. Linger, Aldis Darzins
  • Publication number: 20140194306
    Abstract: Expressed Sequence Tags (ESTs) isolated from the Western Corn Rootworm, Diabrotica virgifera virgifera LeConte, are disclosed. The invention encompasses nucleic acid molecules that encode D. v. virgifera protein homologs and fragments thereof. In addition, antibodies capable of binding the proteins are encompassed by the present invention. The disclosed ESTs have particular utility in isolating genes and promoters, identifying and mapping the genes involved in developmental and metabolic pathways, and determining gene function. The ESTs provide a unique molecular tool for the targeting and isolation of novel genes for plant protection and improvement. The invention also relates to methods of using the disclosed nucleic acid molecules, proteins, fragments of proteins, and antibodies, for example, for gene identification and analysis, and preparation of constructs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 10, 2013
    Publication date: July 10, 2014
    Applicant: Monsanto Technology LLC
    Inventors: Scott E. Andersen, Glenn R. Hicks, Joseph E. Huesing, Charles P. Romano, Clayton S. Vetsch
  • Publication number: 20140196177
    Abstract: An isolated protein which is at least partially encoded by a polynucleotide sequence encoding a novel acyl-CoA: diacylglycerol acyltransferase 1—like gene (PtDGAT1) from the diatom Phaeodactylum tricomutum is provided together with a composition which includes the isolated protein and a transgenic organism transformed by a polynucleotide encoding same. The invention also provides a method for producing or enhancing the production of oil or triacylglycerols with high saturated fatty acids content.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 3, 2011
    Publication date: July 10, 2014
    Applicant: Ben Gurion University of the Negev Research and Development Authority
    Inventors: Freddy Guiheneuf, Stefan Leu, Aliza Zarka, Inna Khozin-Goldberg, Sammy Boussiba
  • Publication number: 20140186920
    Abstract: A method of increasing production of fatty acids comprising introducing into a host and expressing therein an acyl-acyl carrier protein (ACP) thioesterase (TE) from Bryantella formatexigens or a mutant thereof; a method of making a mutant B. formatexigens acyl-ACP TE; a method of making a chimeric Cuphea viscosissima acyl-ACP TE; a nucleic acid molecule comprising a nucleotide sequence encoding a mutant acyl-ACP TE or a chimeric Cuphea viscosissima acyl-ACP TE; a host comprising the nucleic acid molecule; a mutant acyl-ACP TE or chimeric Cuphea viscosissima acyl-ACP TE; a method of altering the specificity of a plant acyl-ACP TE for at least one of its substrates comprising introducing into the plant acyl-ACP TE a substrate specificity-altering mutation; and a method of altering the level of activity of a plant acyl-ACP TE.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 26, 2013
    Publication date: July 3, 2014
    Applicant: IOWA STATE UNIVERSITY RESEARCH FOUNDATION, INC.
    Inventors: Basil J. Nikolau, Marna Yandeau-Nelson, Fuyuan Jing
  • Publication number: 20140186877
    Abstract: Various 1-alkenes, including 1-nonadecene and 1-octadecene, are synthesized by the engineered microorganisms and methods of the invention. In certain embodiments, the microorganisms comprise a recombinant alpha-olefin-associated enzyme. This enzyme may be expressed in combination with a recombinant alkene synthase pathway-related gene. The engineered microorganisms may be photosynthetic microorganisms such as cyanobacteria.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 22, 2012
    Publication date: July 3, 2014
    Applicant: Joule Unlimited Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Nikos Basil Reppas, Christian Perry Ridley, Amy Dearborn
  • Patent number: 8765448
    Abstract: Methods and means are provided for the exact exchange in eukaryotic cells, such as plant cells, of a target DNA sequence for a DNA sequence of interest through homologous recombination, whereby the selectable or screenable marker used during the homologous recombination phase for temporal selection of the gene replacement events can subsequently be removed without leaving a foot-print employing a method for the removal of a selected DNA flanked by two nucleotide sequences in direct repeats.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2014
    Assignee: Bayer Cropscience, N.V.
    Inventors: Anne Rolland, Manuel Dubald, Michiel Van Lookeren Campagne, Rene Ruiter
  • Patent number: 8765434
    Abstract: The object is to provide a novel glycosyltransferase and the use thereof, the glycosyltransferase catalyzes transglucosylation of maltotriose units under conditions which can be employed for the processing of foods or the like. Provided is a maltotriosyl transferase which acts on polysaccharides and oligosaccharides having ?-1,4 glucoside bonds, and has activity for transferring maltotriose units to saccharides, the maltotriosyl transferase acting on maltotetraose as substrate to give a ratio between the maltoheptaose production rate and maltotriose production rate of 9:1 to 10:0 at any substrate concentration ranging from 0.67 to 70% (w/v).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2014
    Assignee: Amano Enzyme Inc.
    Inventors: Masamichi Okada, Shotaro Yamaguchi, Miho Nagoya
  • Publication number: 20140178973
    Abstract: A cyanobacterial host cell, Cyanobacterium sp., that harbors at least one recombinant gene for the production of a chemical compounds is provided, as well as vectors derived from an endogenous plasmid isolated from the cell.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 30, 2013
    Publication date: June 26, 2014
    Applicant: ALGENOL BIOFUELS INC.
    Inventors: Irina Piven, Alexandra Friedrich, Ulf Dühring, Frank Uliczka, Kerstin Baier, Masami Inaba, Tuo Shi, Kui Wang, Heike Enke, Dan Kramer
  • Publication number: 20140178950
    Abstract: Genetically engineered microbial, e.g., Chlorella protothecoides, cells producing microbial oils are useful as a food additive and a source of renewable fuels and industrial chemicals. Lipid biosynthesis genes for Auxenochlorella protethecoides are disclosed that are useful for increasing lipid production and altering fatty acid and triacylglycerol profiles in recombinant microrganisms including cells of the genus Auxenochlorella or Prototheca.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 6, 2013
    Publication date: June 26, 2014
    Applicant: Solazyme, Inc.
    Inventors: Scott Franklin, Shane Brubaker, George N. Rudenko, Riyaz Bhat, Matthew Shoa-Azar, Aravind Somanchi, Aren Ewing
  • Publication number: 20140178958
    Abstract: A genetically enhanced cyanobacterial host cell, Cyanobacterium sp. ABICyano1, is disclosed. The enhanced Cyanobacterium sp. ABICyano1 produces a compound or compounds of interest.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 22, 2013
    Publication date: June 26, 2014
    Applicant: ALGENOL BIOFUELS INC.
    Inventors: Irina Piven, Alexandra Friedrich, Ulf Dühring, Frank Uliczka, Kerstin Baier, Masami Inaba, Tuo Shi, Kui Wang, Heike Enke, Dan Kramer
  • Publication number: 20140178405
    Abstract: Monomeric VHH domain derived from anti-VP6 camelid antibodies, dimeric domain, immunisation method, rotavirus detection method, vaccine composition, prevention and treatment methods for rotavirus infections, wherein said domain may be any of the amino acid sequences shown in SEQ ID No. 1, SEQ ID No. 2, SEQ ID No. 3 or SEQ ID No. 4, and wherein said domains bind to protein VP6 of Group A rotavirus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 3, 2013
    Publication date: June 26, 2014
    Applicant: Instituto Nacional De Tecnologia Agropecuaria (Inta)
    Inventors: Thomas SURREY, Aurelien OLICHON, Lorena Laura GARAICOEACHEA, Gisela Ariana MARCOPPIDO, Gladys Viviana PARREÑO, Silvia GÓMEZ SEBASTIÁN, José Angel MARTÍNEZ ESCRIBANO, Andrés WIGDOROVITZ
  • Patent number: 8759039
    Abstract: The present invention relates to the isolation and to the characterization of two proteins having a novel enzymatic activity, i.e. a porphyranase activity. These proteins are useful for hydrolyzing polysaccharides containing sulfated agaro-colloids and for producing oligo-porphyrans, notably oligo-porphyrans with a defined structure and size.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2014
    Assignee: Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (C.N.R.S.)
    Inventors: Jan-Hendrik Hehemann, Gaëlle Correc, Gurvan Michel, Tristan Barbeyron, William Helbert, Mirjam Czjzek
  • Patent number: 8759615
    Abstract: Exemplary methods include a method for transforming an algal cell by preparing a transformation construct, preparing a particle for bombarding the algal cell, adhering the transformation construct to the particle, bombarding the algal cell with the particle, and growing the algal cell into a colony. The transformation construct is replicated within a nuclear genome of the algal cell and the growing of the algal cell is in a nutrient medium. Another exemplary method may include a method for genetically modifying an algal cell, by adding nucleic acid to the algal cell while the algal cell is suspended in a solution of low conductivity, introducing the nucleic acid into the algal cell by application of an electrical pulse resulting in a transformed algal cell, and selecting a colony that includes the transformed algal cell.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2014
    Assignee: Aurora Algae, Inc.
    Inventors: Bertrand Vick, Oliver Kilian