synthetic biology, Metabolic Engineering
The Dueber lab engineers metabolic pathways into microbes for producing chemicals of interest. In particular, they are interested in designing strategies for gaining programmable control over metabolic and signaling pathways.
A research team led by UC Berkeley bioengineers has completed key steps needed to turn sugar-fed yeast into a microbial factory for producing morphine and potentially other drugs, including antibiotics and anticancer agents.
John Dueber is working to employ metabolite protecting groups for a sustainable indigo dyeing process. The new technology has the potential to transform the Jeans (and related textile) dyeing industry into a "green business" using dye processes that would comply with modern regulations ensuring environmental safeguards.
