Systems-level analysis provides insights on methanol-based production of l-glutamate and its decarboxylation product γ-aminobutyric acid by Bacillus methanolicus

Abstract

Bacillus methanolicus is the next workhorse in biotechnology using methanol, an alternative and economical one-carbon feedstock that can be obtained directly from carbon dioxide, as both carbon and energy source for the production of value-added chemicals. The wild-type strain B. methanolicus MGA3 naturally overproduces l-glutamate in methanol-based fed-batch fermentations. Here we generated a B. methanolicus strain exhibiting enhanced l-glutamate production capability through induced mutagenesis. To showcase the potential of this mutant strain, further metabolic engineering enabled the production of γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) directly from l-glutamate during methanol fed-batch fermentations. Using a systems-level analysis, encompassing whole-genome sequencing, RNA sequencing, fluxome analysis and genome-scale metabolic modelling, we were able to elucidate the metabolic and regulatory adaptations that sustain the biosynthesis of these products. The metabolism of the mutant strain specifically evolved to prioritize energy conservation and efficient carbon utilization, culminating in increased product formation. These results and insights provide a foundation for further rational metabolic engineering and bioprocess optimization, enhancing the industrial viability of B. methanolicus for sustainable production of l-glutamate and its derivatives.