In CEFOX, a unique synthesis platform for the cell-free expression of tailor-made oxyfunctionalizing peroxygenases based on fungal lysates has been successfully developed, patented and applied for specific conversion of lipids, terpenoids and alkaloids. The main objective of CEFOX II is to transfer these results into enzyme-based processes to provide bioactive lipid-molecules and tailor-made building blocks for pharmaceutical chemistry. Central tasks are i) the validated extraction (JenaBios GmbH) of arachidonic acid (ARA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) from bio-based resources such as algae, fungi and lichens as non-animal feedstock in ii) environmentally friendly enzymatic one-pot processes based on cell-free expressed UPOs, which sustainable substitute conventional multi-step synthesis processes for oxyfunctionalization. iii) Novel chemicals and drug molecules are produced and the synthesis of most promising candidates will be optimized and scaled up by Chiracon GmbH and Dynamic42 GmbH in order to test them for their pharmaceutical and industrial utility. Tailored UPOs are expected to produce high value-added lipid mediators such as 14,15-EET (antiphlogistic), 19-HETE, (antihypertensive), 17,18-EEQ (antiarrhythmic) and resolvin RvE3 (preeclampsia biomarker) as bio-based drug candidates, early preeclampsia diagnostics, analytical reference standards and base molecules. The high interdisciplinary and expertise of the CEFOXII consortium enables the implementation of bio-based molecules in value chains and process steps of the pharmaceutical and chemical industry. The planned products and bioprocesses of cell-free UPO catalysis offer genuine competitive advantages over existing fossil-based technologies and serve as an excellent example and entry portal for the transition to a sustainable Bioeconomy.

Duration 2023-2026