In this work, we aim to characterize cellulases from a Penicillium strain which is good producer. We also propose to construct an expression system in this fungal strain towards developing it into a large scale producer of homologous and heterologous proteins.

We aim to further improve indigenously developed bacterial expression systems towards obtaining better processes for production of industrial enzymes. Further, we aim to adapt these strains to be better suited as host for whole cell biotransformations.

R-PAC is the precursor in the synthesis of ephedrine and pseudoephedrine, alkaloids of considerable commercial value as bronchial dilators and nasal decongestants. This intermediate is commercially manufactured using a whole cell yeast biotransformation of benzaldehyde. We have generated site-specific modified mutants of pyruvate decarboxylase, the enzyme responsible for synthesis of R-PAC, with enhanced selectivity for the condensation reaction involved, resulting in a >50% increase in process productivity. This work was carried out with support from DST and Embio Ltd., and has resulted in a tech transfer. There is further work underway to extend the synthesis pathway to other related products of interest.

The objective is to build an arterial tonometry based blood pressure monitoring device (as opposed to conventional oscillometric blood pressure measurement.) Arterial tonometry applies a mild pressure on peripheral arteries (eg. the radial artery) and monitors the pressure pulse waveforms. (Sponsor: IUSSTF/DST, 2014-16)