Louisiana State University researcher optimizing E. coli to produce biodiesel better

In Louisiana, a Louisiana State University Mechanical Engineering graduate student Is currently working on genetically engineering and optimizing E. coli bacteria to produce bioproducts, like biodiesel, in a cost-effective manner. The main goal is to create Malonyl-CoA bioproducts, such as biodiesel, plastics, polymers, and pharmaceuticals. Malonyl-CoA is found in bacteria from humans and has important roles in regulating fatty acid metabolism and food intake; it’s also an attractive target for drug discovery. She was one of four university-level researchers to present her work at the National Biodiesel Conference and Expo in San Diego last month.