From Discovery to Mass Production: A Perspective on Bio-Manufacturing Exemplified by the Development of Statins

The increasingly complex molecular structures and high requirements of advanced industries are triggering a transformation in chemical production modes. Bio-manufacturing provides efficient strategies and brings the advantages of high atomic economy, few side reactions, and strong adaptability to processes, as well as environmental friendliness, which can contribute toward global efforts against greenhouse effect and environmental pollution. The significance of bio-manufacturing can be specifically illustrated by examining the bio-manufacturing process from the scientific discovery of a key compound to its technological integration and engineering innovation. The development of statins—important drugs for hypercholesterolemia treatment—is a good example of the progress and application of bio-manufacturing. The production of the first-generation statins from microorganisms, the second-generation statins using bioconversion, and the third-generation statins through an evolution from total chemical synthesis to chemoenzymatic synthesis demonstrates the technological and engineering revolution of bio-manufacturing, which is of great importance for energy conservation, cost saving, and waste emission reduction. With advances in cutting-edge biotechnologies, as well as the integration of multiple disciplines, bio-manufacturing is expected to promote the advancement of more intelligent processes to realize sustainable and green industrial development.