BACKGROUND
Liver microsomes (LMs) are useful for biosensing, catalytic applications and drug development because of their ability to catalyze a broad range of reactions with inherent stereoselectivity. Using traditional LMs, expensive cofactors, such as NADPH must be added to facilitate metabolic reactions. Previous researchers have demonstrated that electrocatalysis can replace the need for adding NADPH in LMs. However, achieving highly enhanced electrocatalytic metabolite production from a simple adsorption of LM directly onto a structure with sufficient electrocatalytic stability and reusability has remained an issue.
SUMMARY OF TECHNOLOGY
The inventors of this technology have developed an LM bioreactor that uses a novel, unique electrode surface coated with LMs. This reactor uses electrocatalysis to drive metabolic reactions and does not require expensive cofactors or purification of enzymes. Importantly, these inventors have designed the bioreactor to achieve highly enhanced metabolite production, and electrocatalytic stability and reusability. Proof of concept testing with testosterone has already demonstrated that this LM bioreactor exhibits enhanced testosterone hydroxylation, reusability and stability with a half-life of 10 hours.
POTENTIAL AREAS OF APPLICATION
- Green synthesis of drug metabolites
- Analysis of drug metabolism
- Analysis of inhibition of liver function
MAIN ADVANTAGES
- Reusable
- Long half-life in the electrocatalytically active form
- Does not require expensive cofactors
- Driven by electrocatalysis
COMMERCIAL OPPURTUNITY
Due to increased research and drug development dependent on bioreactor products, the growth in this market is virtually guaranteed. The bioreactor market is projected to grow to $7.33 billion by 2030, a compounded annual growth rate of 10.7%.
STATE OF DEVELOPMENT
Proof of concept has been achieved.
LICENSING CONTACT
Please contact Russell Hopper russell.hopper@okstate.edu for more information.