The Melis Lab at UC Berkeley is working to unlock the SynBio power of the sun.
Cyanobacterial cell factories are genetically programmed to produce high-value proteins and specific plant essential oils, sustainably and at scale. Proprietary technology enables accumulation of biopharmaceutical and other proteins in active form, up to an unparalleled 30% of the total cellular protein. Target proteins in functional form are delivered on a novel hexametric carrier complex, ready for action. Alternatively, through metabolic engineering, flux of the isoprenoid biosynthetic pathway is diverted to generate valuable plant essential oils, useful in the fragrance and cosmetics industries, and possibly as biofuels. The SynBio process absorbs from the atmosphere and converts CO2 into useful products, mitigating carbon emissions and climate change.