ISLAMABAD (PEN) : A groundbreaking bacteria-based technology has emerged, offering a dual benefit: tackling climate change while producing a valuable antioxidant. Researchers from Qingdao Agricultural University in China’s Shandong province have developed this innovative solution, aiming to capture carbon dioxide and convert it into lycopene, a powerful antioxidant found in foods like tomatoes, watermelons, and peppers.
Lycopene is not only responsible for the vibrant red color of these fruits and vegetables but is also believed to protect against various health issues, including heart disease, certain cancers, and diabetes, while supporting bone health.
This new “synthetic biology technology” represents a more sustainable approach compared to traditional methods. Led by researcher Yang Jianming, the team describes their process as cost-effective and easy to implement. They harness microorganisms to capture CO2 and transform it into lycopene, mimicking the natural carbon fixation that plants use to create organic compounds.
The technology utilizes microorganisms as bioreactors, allowing for the production of diverse products while simultaneously reducing carbon emissions. Yang has focused on a naturally occurring bacterium called Rhodopseudomonas palustris, found in marine sediments and pond water. Through advanced genetic engineering, they have enhanced this bacterium’s ability to capture carbon and produce valuable bioproducts.
Traditional methods of extracting lycopene from plants often face limitations, such as inefficiency and high resource requirements, leading to impure products. Chemical synthesis, while an alternative, can be complex and demanding. The new approach from these Chinese scientists presents a sustainable alternative.
The potential applications for lycopene are vast, extending beyond its role as a natural pigment. Its antioxidant properties make it valuable in industries like pharmaceuticals and cosmetics. A 2020 study from the Beijing University of Chinese Medicine highlighted the rising interest in lycopene for its potential in treating various diseases.
Lycopene’s market value can soar as high as 5 million yuan (about $708,800) per ton. The technology developed by Qingdao Agricultural University has garnered significant attention, with the patent sold to a local investment company for 1 million yuan—setting a record for the highest price paid for a single patent in Shandong province. This partnership aims to collaborate on future projects focused on green biomanufacturing technology, contributing to global carbon reduction efforts.
As various companies explore ways to capture and eliminate carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, innovative methods like algae cultivation are also being investigated by startups in Hong Kong. Together, these advancements reflect a growing commitment to creating a sustainable future while harnessing the power of nature.
