Institute for Plant Biotechnology
Welcome to Stellenbosch University

Novel Biopolymers

Principle Investigators: Prof Jens Kossmann, Prof​ James Lloyd and 

Dr Shaun Peters

 

 

In order to produce novel biopolymers with specialised functionalities we have developed a range of screening systems that allow for easy identification of novel genes coding for biopolymer synthetic or modifying enzymes. After characterisation, the genes are expressed in suitable hosts, such as bacteria, yeasts or higher plants. The libraries we are screening are either derived from organisms known to accumulate interesting biopolymers, or are metagenomic libraries from specific ecological niches that we think represent environments where accumulation of such functional polymers would give a selective advantage.

 

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