FURI | Spring 2024

Enhanced Production of Organic Materials Under Light-Limited Conditions Through CRISPR Engineering of Cyanobacterial Hydrogenase

As global warming intensifies, the need for sustainable biofuel sources becomes critical.This research focuses on enhancing organic material production in cyanobacteria under light-limited conditions through CRISPR engineering of hydrogenase enzymes. Cyanobacteria, particularly Synechococcus 11901, will undergo genetic modification to increase hydrogenase activity using strong promoters to enhance biomass production in cyanobacteria. The study evaluates growth, chlorophyll content, and metabolic responses of modified strains compared to wild-type under varying hydrogen injection. The findings could revolutionize sustainable biofuel production and combat climate change.