The research activity at the Department of Biology and Biotechnology “Lazzaro Spallanzani” (DBB) of the University of Pavia, covers many scientific areas: microbial genetics, plant, animal and human genetics, microbiology, biochemistry, biocrystallography and molecular biology.
C. Calvio is member of a DBB team involved in microbial genetics having Bacillus subtilis as a core research topic since 1970. In fact since 1970s a collection of strains has been maintained in-house and now includes more than 1200 strains with different mutations. Bacillus has a well-established reputation in industrial context because of its simple growth requirements, high secretion capability and the ease of genetic manipulation; furthermore, being as soil organism, it is endowed with inherent cellulolytic functions.
In the Microbial Genetics laboratory of the DBB genetic engineering strategies and fermentation activities are aimed at optimizing the expression of commercially relevant degradative enzymes, particularly for biomass treatment, in this G.R.A.S. organism. Furthermore, the Lab applies its considerable experience in genetic manipulation to rationally modify the microbial metabolism in order to exploit agro-industrial waste as feedstock for microbial fermentations. The goal is the economic obtainment of fermentation commodities relevant in the bioeconomy market.
Presently, the optimization of the yield of γ-PGA, a cutting-edge biopolymer, is under analysis. γ-PGA is a high molecular weight natural polymer secreted by Bacilli endowed with several attractive characteristics: it is non-toxic, non-immunogenic, protease-resistant, highly anionic, hydro-soluble and superassorbant. It can be derivatized with other biological/chemical partners to produce advanced biomaterials.

Country: Italy

Organization Type: University

Phone: +390382985559

Email: cinzia.calvio@unipv.it

City: Pavia ,Via Ferrata 1 Google map

Areas of Activities