 |
Douglas E. Eveleigh
Professor
Rutgers University
Dept. of Biochemistry and Microbiology
333 Lipman Hall
School of Env & Biol Sciences
New Brunswick. NJ 08903
(732) 932-9829
FAX -8965
eveleigh@aesop.rutgers.edu |
Industrial microbiology and microbial ecology
The central thrust of our research is to understand
the role. mechanism and application of microbial polysaccharases. As
cellulose and xylan form the world's major organic materials - both plant
structural supports and potential energy resources - our focus is to
characterize the multi-component cellulase and xylanase systems: from
fungi (Trichoderma). thermophilic actinomycetes (Microbispora)
and hyperthermophilic bacteria (Thermotoga). The polysaccharases
are characterized from microbiological. biochemical and molecular
biological perspectives. The cellulases of Thermotoga neapolitana
are of interest for their thermal stability. acting optimally near the
boiling point of water. and having extremely high specific activity - over
1000 for one carboxymethylcellulase as a substrate. In studying the
transformation of xylan. we have recently uncovered a xylan utilization
gene cluster from the ocean vent. hyperthermophile Thermotoga.
Chitin is a further substrate of interest. We are also studying the
polysaccharases from Yellowstone hyperthermophiles - Fervidobacterium.
These fundamental studies of hyperthermophilic polysaccharases lead to a
consideration of industrial applications. for instance the use of the
stable. highly active T. neapolitana alpha-galactosidase to degrade
the flatulence causing oligosaccharide present in soy products - of
importance with regard to the feed of monogastric animals. Overall we
consideration that the recycling of biomass as an energy resource - its
conversion to sugars and subsequent fermentation to alcohol as a
transportation fuel - will help stabilize the Greenhouse effect through
the recycling of carbon dioxide. Our studies yield basic understanding of
this concept. Ironically. cellulolytic microbes are also a nuisance in
promoting the deterioration of manuscripts. maps. paintings and are of
particular concern in the destruction of antique artefacts. This aspect of
cellulolysis is also being explored.
|
