Biocatalytic Steviol Glycoside Purification via Microbial Biotransformation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for preparing steviol glycosides from Stevia rebaudiana are not suitable for commercial use due to inefficiencies and lack of simple, economical processes for producing highly purified compositions.
Innovation Solution
A biocatalytic process involving microorganisms with steviol biosynthesis enzymes and UDP-glycosyltransferases is used to convert organic substrates into target steviol glycosides, such as stevioside and rebaudioside A, through biotransformation, with optional UDP-glucose recycling to enhance efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional methods for preparing steviol glycosides from Stevia rebaudiana are used, then the production process is established, but the manufacturing efficiency and purification level are insufficient for commercial use
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by optimizing fermentation conditions including pH (5.5-7.0), temperature (25-37°C), incubation time (48-72 hours), and substrate concentration to maximize both production yield and purity of target steviol glycosides through biocatalytic transformation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces conventional mechanical extraction and chemical purification methods with a biocatalytic system using microorganisms and enzymes (UDP-glycosyltransferases) to transform precursor compounds into target steviol glycosides, achieving higher efficiency and purity through biological conversion processes
2Ease of manufacture
If simple and economical preparation methods are used, then the ease of manufacture is improved, but the production efficiency and purity are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs self-service principles by using microorganisms that naturally possess steviol biosynthesis enzymes and UDP-glycosyltransferases to autonomously catalyze the transformation of precursor compounds into target steviol glycosides, eliminating the need for complex multi-step chemical synthesis procedures while maintaining high production efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The patent achieves universality by selecting microorganisms that can perform multiple functions: they serve as both the fermentation host and the source of biocatalytic enzymes, enabling simultaneous production of multiple steviol glycoside variants through a single integrated process
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This process results in highly purified steviol glycosides with greater than 95% purity, suitable for use in various consumer products, offering a more efficient and economical method for producing these compounds.
Implementation Method 1
A biocatalytic process involving microorganisms with steviol biosynthesis enzymes and UDP-glycosyltransferases is used to convert organic substrates into target steviol glycosides, such as stevioside and rebaudioside A, through biotransformation
Data Source
AI summary
Methods of preparing highly purified steviol glycosides, particularly rebaudiosides A, D and Mare described. The methods include utilizing recombinant microorganisms for converting various staring compositions to target steviol glycosides. In addition, novel steviol glycosides reb D2, reb M2, and reb I are disclosed, as are methods of preparing the same. The highly purified rebaudiosides are useful as non-caloric sweetener in edible and chewable compositions such as any beverages, confectioneries, bakery products, cookies, and chewing gums.