Model-driven Strain Design for Pseudomonas Fluorescens

70441S02-II To analyze, interpret, and predict the function of biological systems, innovative, integrated approaches are needed to utilize the information generated from genome research. This project will develop novel engineering approaches for studying the systemic capabilities of metabolism in completely sequenced bacterial genomes. In particular, the approach will focus on the development and implementation of a genome-scale metabolic model of Pseudomonas fluorescens. Phase I constructed an in silico metabolic model of P. fluorescens, based in large part on the recently sequenced genome of this organism. The model was refined and validated against existing experimental data on the organism. In Phase II, the in silico model of P. fluorescens, developed in Phase I, will be employed to perform integrated modeling/experimental research to demonstrate the utility of the model for driving metabolic engineering and designing bioprocesses. Experimental validations, of strain design and construction, fermentation evaluation, and gene expression studies, will be conducted. Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by awardee: A comprehensive metabolic model of P. fluorescens should be useful in strain engineering of P. fluorescens, which is widely used in the fermentative production of various biologics (e.g. industrial enzymes, and chemicals) as well as in bioremediation treatment strategies.