CHAPTER 4: Chemical Biotechnology of In Vitro Synthetic Biosystems for Biomanufacturing

Increasing demands for green technologies and bio-based products are driving a revolution in modern biomanufacturing. There could be a new paradigm shift in biomanufacturing n from whole cell fermentation to in vitro biosystems comprised of numerous enzymes and/or (biomimetic) coenzymes. Such in vitro biosystems feature numerous bioprocessing merits, such as high product yields, fast reaction rates, easy product separation, easy process and control, tolerance of toxic compounds, capability of performing non-natural reactions, and in some cases shifting the reaction equilibrium. In this chapter, the background to in vitro biosystems is introduced, followed by its numerous benefits, each of which is accompanied with supporting examples. The latest advances in chemically promoted biomimetic cofactors are highlighted. Remaining challenges and possible solutions are further illustrated, suggesting that in vitro biosystems will become a disruptive technology in the production of not only high-value chemicals but also high-impact low-value biocommodities (e.g., biofuels, food, and value-added chemicals)