Volume 2 · Issue 6 (2025)
Fundamental Study on De Novo Biosynthesis of Dopamine in Escherichia Coli
Emily Qixuan Wang
Tsinghua International School, Beijing, China
Abstract: Dopamine is an important endogenous organic compound that exerts its unique and crucial functions in the body through various mechanisms. Advancements in biotechnology have accelerated the shift toward biosynthetic production of functional compounds like dopamine. Although de novo dopamine synthesis has been achieved via molecular biology approaches, current production strains remain constrained by low yields and suboptimal efficiency, limiting broader applications. To address these limitations, this study implemented systematic molecular modifications in E. coli targeting three critical aspects: (i) key dopamine synthetic genes, (ii) precursor-supplying genes governing metabolic flux, and (iii) glucose transport systems regulating substrate uptake. These interventions achieved measurable enhancement of dopamine titers. Subsequent screening of the rate-limiting enzyme gene ddc coupled with temporal optimization of inducer administration further elevated dopamine production to 608 mg/L in shake-flask fermentation. This work thus provides actionable guidance for advancing microbial dopamine biosynthesis platforms.
Keywords: Dopamine; Biosynthesis; Synthetic biology
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