Biosynthesis of 1,4-butanediol from erythritol using whole-cell catalysis

1,4-Butanediol (BDO) biosynthesis from renewable resources is of increasing interest because of global energy and environmental problems. We have previously demonstrated the production of BDO from erythritol by whole-cell catalysis. Here, the effects of several variables on BDO production were investigated, including cell density, temperature, substrate concentration and pH. It was found that the maximum BDO production was obtained at cell density (OD600) of 30. Low temperature and weak alkaline environment were beneficial for the biotransformation. Regarding substrate concentration, 80 g/L of erythritol was found to be optimum for the bioconversion. Under the optimal conditions, the highest concentration of BDO reached 34.5 mg/L, resulting in 5.8-fold increment after optimization. These results will provide useful guidance for enhancing the bioconversion of erythritol to BDO.