Unlocking the potential of one-carbon gases (CO2, CO) for concomitant bioproduction of β-carotene and lipids.

This study investigates the use of a Yarrowia lipolytica strain for the bioconversion of syngas-derived acetic acid into β-carotene and lipids. A two-stage process was employed, starting with the acetogenic fermentation of syngas by Clostridium aceticum , metabolising CO, CO 2 , H 2 , to produce acetic acid, which is then utilized by Y. lipolytica for simultaneous lipid and β-carotene synthesis. The research demonstrates that acetic acid concentration plays a pivotal role in modulating lipid profiles and enhancing β-carotene production, with increased acetic acid consumption leading to higher yields of these compounds. This approach showcases the potential of using one-carbon gases as substrates in bioprocesses for generating valuable bioproducts, providing a sustainable and cost-effective alternative to more conventional feedstocks and substrates, such as sugars. • Syngas can be used as feedstock for producing lipids and β-carotene. • Y. lipolytica showed efficient conversion of acetic acid from syngas bioconversion. • High β-carotene production was observed with acetic acid from syngas valorization. • Syngas has eco-friendly potential for industrial production of biobased products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]