Researchers at the University of Nottingham’s School of Biosciences have advanced vaccine development for Chagas disease by expressing and purifying a key enzyme target, TcPOP, in E. coli using the INFORS HT Techfors-S pilot bioreactor. The purified protein enabled structural and immunological characterization, showing parasite-neutralizing activity in mouse models and providing insights into the conformational dynamics of the enzyme. These findings offer a strong foundation for the development of a targeted, protein-based vaccine candidate for a globally neglected tropical disease.

Researchers from Adamo Foods and the University of Nottingham investigated how nutritional manipulation of fermentation media, specifically the addition of iron (Fe III) and Vitamin B12, impacts the yield, texture, and nutritional profile of fungal mycelium grown for alternative meat applications. Using the INFORS HT Techfors-S pilot bioreactor, the team scaled up production from shake flasks and observed significant increases in bioaccumulation of iron and B12, with up to 97% terephthalic acid yield sustained across multiple cycles. Sensory testing of biomass processed into steaks also revealed changes in texture and flavor, highlighting the importance of bioreactor-based media optimization for developing high-quality, reproducible mycelium-based products.