Carotene Synthase Gene and Uses Therefor

Abstract

Described herein is a novel three domain gene from Schizochytrium, denoted carotene synthase, that encodes a protein with three different enzymatic activities: phytoene dehydrogenase (PD), phytoene synthase (PS), and lycopene cyclase (LC). Also described is the isolated gene encoding the carotene synthase, homologues thereof, the enzyme encoded by such gene, biologically active portions and homologues thereof, recombinant nucleic acid molecules, microorganisms and plants that have been genetically modified to increase or decrease the action of such gene, and methods of producing carotenoids and derivatives thereof or methods of producing microorganisms and lipid products lacking pigmentation using the knowledge of the carotene synthase described herein.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10 / 438,784, filed May 14, 2003, and entitled “Carotene Synthase Gene and Uses Thereof”, which claims priority under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e) from U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 60 / 380,721, filed May 14, 2002, and entitled “Carotene Synthase Gene and Uses Thereof”. The entire disclosure of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10 / 438,784 and U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 60 / 380,721 is incorporated herein by reference.FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] This invention generally relates to a novel carotene synthase gene comprising the biological activities of phytoene dehydrogenase (PD), phytoene synthase (PS), and lycopene cyclase (LC), and to the protein encoded by the gene, and to methods of making and using the carotene synthase encoded thereby. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0003] Most carotenogenic bacteria synthesize β-carotene from the precursor geranylgeranyl pyroph...

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