Spoligotype patterns evolve through the deletion of spacer sequences that cannot be recovered and have provided Dr Mark Tanaka with a rich source of data with which to understand the transmission of disease.
Development of Chimeric Proteins for Biotechnology Applications
This project involves research into the development, expression and characterisation of chimeric protein/peptide domains from the Clostridium as well as from other prokaryotic and eukaryotic species, for biotechnology applications such as i) In vitro reconstitution of minicellulosomes for the efficient bioconversion of cellulosic biomass into soluble carbon sources or biofuels; ii) Catalysis and conversion of substrates into valuable end-products for the biopharmaceutical/biotechnology industry.
With increasing emphasis on renewable energy sources, environmental pollution management and the escalating price of oil, it is imperative that cellulosic biomass be converted into energy and other value products efficiently and economically.
Knowledge derived from these studies can also be used to develop other innovative applications of in vitro biological protein complex formation for a plethora of customised functions.
BABS personnel that are responsible for this project