PERUBIO
Microbial production of erucic acid
Context
Erucic acid is a key platform molecule whose unsaturation can be further functionalized—chemically or enzymatically. The resulting derivatives can serve as monomers for the synthesis of various polymers. In France, erucic acid is currently produced from high‑erucic rapeseed oil—which is available only in limited quantities—or from imported castor oil.
Objectives
The objective of the PERUBIO project is to convert, via a microbial pathway employing elongases, substrates rich in oleic acid (such as waste cooking oils, deodorizer distillates, and acidic oils) into lipids enriched in erucic acid and devoid of polyunsaturated fatty acids.
Expected results
A new process designed to reduce industrial dependence on castor oil for the production of platform molecules.
Target markets
- Oilseeds
- Cosmetics
- Lubricants
Components involved
- UMR 792 TBI – CIMES
- UMR 792 TBI – FAME
- ITERG