Research Project

NOBIS – Harnessing spatial metabolomic patterns to exploit cyanobacteria of the genus Nostoc as productive biofilms

We develop biofilm-based cyanobacterial systems for sustainable production of chemicals, exploiting spatial metabolomics to optimize growth, metabolism and high-titer production of valuable natural products

Filamentous cyanobacteria of the genus Nostoc have unique advantages as biofilm producers. They form robust high-density biofilms, fix nitrogen, and exhibit pronounced multicellularity and phenotypic plasticity. These properties can be harnessed for efficient spatial division of labor and sustainable chemical production. This project investigates how mono- and multi-species biofilms can be engineered to produce bulk and fine chemicals at high titers. A central paradigm is the use of spatial metabolomics, applying advanced mass spectrometry imaging to understand and control heterogeneity in biofilms. By correlating metabolic gradients with production hotspots, the project aims to decouple growth and product formation, thereby offering an avenue to increase efficiency. Outcomes will include a standardized pipeline for spatial metabolomics in biofilms and proof-of-concept production of compounds such as pyreudione A, cyanobacterin, and limonene. This will open new opportunities for sustainable, biofilm-based production of fine chemicals.

Process overview of the NOBIS project

Insight into the NOBIS research project.

Team

Elke Dittmann-Thünemann

Elke Dittmann-Thünemann

Phone: +49 331 9775120

Email: dittmann@uni-potsdam.de

Nicole Strittmatter

Nicole Strittmatter

Phone: +49 89 289 13321

Email: nicole.strittmatter@tum.de