Alginate Biosynthesis in Azotobacter vinelandii: Overview of Molecular Mechanisms in Connection with the Oxygen Availability

• Main Authors: Ivette Pacheco-Leyva, Felipe Guevara Pezoa, Alvaro Díaz-Barrera
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Hindawi Limited 2016-01-01
• Series: International Journal of Polymer Science
• Online Access: http://dx.doi.org/10.1155/2016/2062360

The Gram-negative bacterium Azotobacter vinelandii can synthetize the biopolymer alginate that has material properties appropriate for plenty of applications in industry as well as in medicine. In order to settle the foundation for improving alginate production without compromising its quality, a better understanding of the polymer biosynthesis and the mechanism of regulation during fermentation processes is necessary. This knowledge is crucial for the development of novel production strategies. Here, we highlight the key aspects of alginate biosynthesis that can lead to producing an alginate with specific material properties with particular focus on the role of oxygen availability linked with the molecular mechanisms involved in the alginate production.