Research Group Bioprocess Technology

Under supervision of apl. Prof. Dr. Sascha Beutel the research group is conducting fundamental and applied research in the focal area of bioprocess engineering. In our research we are developing complete bioprocesses – from the isolation of genes of interest over the expression in bacterial hosts to the production, isolation and purification of the produced biomolecules. The addressed biomolecules are usually enzymes or otherwise active proteins. The enzymes are intended to be applied in food, aroma or scenting molecule production, e.g. for the production of flavonoids, or sesquiterpenes, wherein processes with isolated enzymes as well as wholecell-catalytical processes are in focus to facilitate cofactor regeneration.

In bioprocess technology, different aspects of bioprocess development are dealt with. In addition to the control, regulation and optimisation of cultivation processes of bacteria, fungi and mammalian cells, investigations are carried out on enzymatic processes. Some of the laboratories and the pilot plant have SI approval so that work can be carried out with recombinant organisms of this safety level. Currently, organisms for the production of antibiotics, various enzymes, food supplements, cytokines, antibodies and vaccines are being studied in detail. Bioreactors (including single-use systems and ceramic hollow fibre reactors) up to 50 litre scale are available.

In the field of bioanalytics, the Beutel working group is dedicated to the development of bioanalytical methods such as the quantification of vitamin B12 in food or the identification of fragrances and flavours from recombinant production. Another focus is the development of sensors and sensor concepts, e.g. for online monitoring of pH, pO2 and OD, for fluorescence measurement of proteins, NADH or similar, or for the use of in situ microscopy in bioprocess monitoring.