Adaptation of intestine-based microbial functions to bioethanol production

Abstract

Animal intestine is a favorable habitat to microbes. It facilitates the evolution of dense and diversified microbial communities that are highly active and persistent throughout life span. Here, we stimulate this unique biosystem to develop high-efficient continuous bio-manufacturing processes. The pig small intestine was explored as a novel bioreactor with industrial Saccharomyces cerevisiae for biofuel production. Results showed that the small intestine was a beneficial material for cell adherence. The cells on the intestine exhibited the abilities of self-immobilization, self-duplication and self-repairing. Therefore the intestine-based S. cerevisiae could be continuously used for a long time at high metabolic activities. Both the fermentation speed and ethanol yield were improved. This study provides valuable insights into the functions of intestine-based biosystem and should inspire the development of bionic industrial processes. Future dissection of the interface mechanism and design of more bionic materials will make bioprocesses more economically favorable and environmentally sustainable.