Project information
Unlocking the Biotechnological Potential of Thermophilic Aneurinibacilli: Towards Next Generation Synthesis of Microbial Polyesters

The genus Aneurinibacillus comprises aerobic sporulating Gram-positive bacteria, which are poorly studied both fundamentally and biotechnologically. Recently, we identified the ability of several thermophilic representatives of this genus to synthesize polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA) – fully renewable biodegradable polyesters. A unique characteristic of these bacteria is their capability to incorporate various monomers into the PHA, subsequently boosting their distinct properties and application potential. This unique metabolic ability of Aneurinibacilli could significantly push the limits and open new horizons in PHA production and utilization. Given our limited knowledge of these bacteria, a crucial question arises: how to fully exploit their biotechnological potential? Aneurinibacilli should not only be viewed as PHA producers but also as donors of suitable genes for other thermophilic bacteria. The aim of the proposed project is to comprehensively understand the metabolic properties of these bacteria and explore their potential within the framework of next-generation biotechnologies.