Using algae to produce medium-chain-length fatty acids

摘要

Scientists at Kao Corp. (KAO; Tokyo, Japan; chemical.kao.com) have discovered an enzyme that has the potential for producing large quantities of medium-chain (C12) fatty acids (FAs), which are the main components of natural oils, such as palm-kernel and coconut-palm oils. Such FAs are precursors to surfactants used in shampoos and detergents. The discovery could lead to an alternative route to such FAs, without competing with natural, edible oils.