Bioprospection on the metabolism of prokaryotes from Brazilian biomas: exploitation of microbial transformations for synthesis of chiral pharmaceuticals and bioactives compounds

• Grant number: 04/07708-0
• Support type: BIOTA-FAPESP Program - Regular Research Grants
• Duration: December 01, 2004 - November 30, 2006
• Field of knowledge: Physical Sciences and Mathematics - Chemistry - Organic Chemistry
• Principal researcher: João Valdir Comasseto
• Grantee: João Valdir Comasseto
• Home Institution: Instituto de Química (IQ). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). São Paulo , SP, Brazil

Abstract

Screening of new enzymes for enantioselective reactions using microorganisms isolated in Brazil. The prospecting of microorganisms will be carry out with samples from two Brazilian Biomes: Mata Atlântica [studies carried out in the context of the Biota Program (2001-04)]; Amazônia [Parque Nacional Pacaás Novos, Rondônia State (Madeira Watershead)]. Enrichment and isolation of chemolitotrophs and chemoorganotrophs of Archaea and Bacteria Domains. Phylogenetic characterization of the microorganisms by using the 16S rDNA analyses, Denaturing Gradient Gel Electrophoresis - DGGE and fluorescent in situ hybridization -FISH, and sequencing approaches. Screening of microbial species able to degrade aliphatic and aromatic halogenated compounds, to verify the enzymatic potential of the microbes. Screening of microorganisms capable of promoting enantioselective oxi-reduction reactions and nitrile hydrolysis. (AU)