BASF and CoEBio3 in biotech alliance

BASF has signed a three-year cooperation agreement with the Center of Excellence in Biocatalysis, Biotransformation and Biomanufacturing (CoEBio3). The deal is worth Euro 1million for the biotech research facility affiliated to the University of Manchester.

BASF already uses enzyme-based biocatalysts in the manufacture intermediates for the pharmaceutical industry but sees more potential applications in the production of novel polymers for the cosmetics industry and for surface treatment of textiles.

The research alliance will allow BASF to benefit from the knowhow of scientists based outside the company. In addition, the university will undertake the very time-consuming basic research involved.

As part of the deal, the British scientists will be responsible for screening for enzymes of potential technological benefit. The screening activities will mainly focus on soil. One gram of soil contains more living microorganisms than there are people on the planet. All these microorganisms depend on a large number of enzymes for metabolic functions, such as digesting nutrients and eliminating toxins. The researchers look at what each organism can do and evaluate whether these capabilities are of interest in chemical production.

BASF has already signed similar agreements with universities in Graz (Austria), Stuttgart and Duesseldorf (Germany).