ARS | Publication request: Searching for a One-Step Bioprocess for the Production of Hydroxyl Fatty Acids and Hydroxyl Oils from Soybean Oil

Submitted to: Meeting Abstract
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: November 19, 2010
Publication Date: November 19, 2010
Citation: Hou, C.T. 2010. Searching for a one-step bioprocess for the production of hydroxyl fatty acids and hydroxyl oils from soybean oil [abstract]. International Society of Biocatalysis and Biotechnology. E-1. p. 69.

Technical Abstract: Soybean oil is produced domestically in large supply, averaging over 20 billion pounds per year with an annual carryover of more than one billion pounds. It is important to find new uses for this surplus soybean oil. Hydroxyl fatty acids and hydroxyl oils are platform materials for specialty chemicals and oil industries. Recinoleic acid and castor oil are the major plant hydroxyl fatty acids/oil and have higher value than soybean oil. Many years ago we started a research project to convert soybean oil and its component fatty acids to value-added products such as recinoleic acid. We successfully found many microbes that can convert fatty acids to recinoleic acid-type mono hydroxyl fatty acids. We also discovered microbial production of di- and trihydroxy fatty acids. Many of these new products exhibit biological activities such as antibacterial, antifungal and physiological activities. Now we are exploring potential biological activities of these new hydroxyl fatty acid products. Scientists who are interested in testing applications of our novel hydroxyfatty acids products are welcome to contact me. Soy polyols (hydroxyl triacylglycerols) are important starting materials for the manufacture of polymers such as polyurethane. In order to produce our novel hydroxyfatty acids and soy polyol oil in a more economic way, we are searching for a one-step bioprocess for the production of hydrooxyfatty acids and polyol oil from soybean oil.