Biotechnology 2 final solutions flash cards

Glucose Isomerase Purification

A series of steps designed to isolate the glucose isomerase enzyme from Bacillus coagulans.

Cell Disruption

The process of breaking open the cells to release the glucose isomerase enzyme.

Centrifugation

A method used to separate cell debris from the enzyme-containing solution by spinning at high speed.

Salt Precipitation

The addition of salt to a solution to encourage the enzyme to clump together and precipitate.

Gel Filtration

A separation technique that sorts molecules based on their size, useful for further purifying the enzyme.

Inoculum Optimization

Using a high-density, actively growing culture to reduce the lag phase in batch culture.

Cost-effective Nutrients

Low-cost raw materials such as corn steep liquor, glycerol, and lignocellulosic biomass used in fermentation.

Ethanol Tolerance Selection

The process of selecting yeast or bacteria capable of surviving high ethanol concentrations, often by gradually increasing ethanol levels.

Chemostat

A bioreactor that maintains a steady state of microbial growth, where nutrient supply controls growth rate.

Fed-batch Strategy

A biotechnological process where nutrients are added in stages to optimize product yield, particularly for secondary metabolites.

Cell Immobilization

A technique that confines cells in a matrix or membrane to enhance reuse and separation.

Anti-fouling Agents

Chemicals added to minimize the formation of gel on filtration membranes.

Lyophilization

A freeze-drying process used to remove water from a heat-sensitive product under vacuum.

What is a bioreactor?

A bioreactor is a container in which biological reactions, such as the growth of microorganisms or cells, occur.

What does substrate utilization mean?

Substrate utilization refers to how microorganisms consume substrates for their growth and to produce products.

What is bioprocess monitoring?

Bioprocess monitoring is the continuous observation of biological processes to maintain optimal conditions and results.

What is an enzyme activity assay?

An enzyme activity assay is a laboratory test designed to measure how active an enzyme is under specific conditions.

What is strain improvement?

Strain improvement involves genetically modifying microorganisms to boost their performance and increase product yields.

What is fermentation?

Fermentation is a metabolic process in which microorganisms convert sugar into acids, gases, or alcohol.

What does product recovery refer to?

Product recovery encompasses the methods used to extract and purify the desired product from a fermentation or other bioprocess.