Developing bacteria to convert carbon dioxide into alcohol

A new type of bacteria of the genus Clostridia has been produced by biotechnologists. Able to synthesize pure acetone and alcohol – isopropanol from carbon dioxide.

The researchers report that they have found a simple way to produce acetone and isopropanol from industrial exhaust, as well as a mixture of carbon monoxide and hydrogen.

A new variety of microbes has been produced by biotechnologists under the direction of Professor Michael Jewett at Northwestern University in Evanston (USA).

Acetone and isopropanol extracted from bacteria are used in industry, including the production of solvents and disinfectants.

Scientists have begun working with the intestinal bacteria Clostridium autoethanogenum, which can convert carbon monoxide into ethyl alcohol. As a result, the genome of this species has been modified so that it absorbs carbon dioxide and converts it into various substances, without the need for an influx of energy and other nutrients.

 

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