Title: Methods for the conversion of fermentable sugars to ethanol

Abstract

Methods and systems for the enhancement of bioproduct process yields. The present invention provides systems and methods for improvement of the carbon conversion efficiency by yeast of an organic substrate such as a fermentable sugar to a fermentation product such as ethanol. Exemplary yield-increasing/growth-inhibitory compounds include tyrosol (TyrOH), 2-phenylethanol (PheOH), and tryptophol (TrpOH). Immobilization of the yeast, such as in a porous bead or pellet, can further increase yield. Exemplary immobilization included immobilization in calcium alginate beads. The system and methods taught herein demonstrate that product yield such as ethanol yield can be improved by adding yeast yield-increasing/growth-inhibitory molecules to reduce cell growth of yeast species, such as S. cerevisiae, suggesting a strategy to improve the yield of ethanol and other yeast fermentation products by manipulating native biological control systems.

Inventors:

Reardon, Kenneth F.; Huang, Xingfeng

Issue Date:

Tue Nov 28 00:00:00 EST 2023

Research Org.:

Colorado State Univ., Fort Collins, CO (United States)

Sponsoring Org.:

USDOE

OSTI Identifier:

2293911

Patent Number(s):

11827917

Application Number:

17/240,613

Assignee:

Colorado State University Research Foundation (Fort Collins, CO)

DOE Contract Number:  

AC36-08GO28308

Resource Type:

Patent

Resource Relation:

Patent File Date: 04/26/2021

Country of Publication:

United States

Language:

English