About Metagenome Screening for Enzymes

In enzyme discovery, metagenomics allows the analysis of DNA sequences from the environment in a high-throughput way. Genomic databases could be explored for information on the species and the enzymatic activities present in the sample. For non-culturable microorganisms, as culture is not necessary in metagenomics, this opens the possibility of exploring a huge reservoir of new enzymes unknown to date, for example, with known activities but uncommon properties and/or with unknown activities toward specific substrates. Metagenomics has been successfully used to explore novel enzymes from different natural sources, such as soil and marine environments. As a typical example, α-xylosidase was screened, identified, and characterized from a soil metagenome. In this study, the metagenomic DNA was first extracted from the soil sample. A metagenomic library was constructed and transformed into E. coli, followed by screening for activity. In another example, genes for secondary metabolite production were identified from fungal strains collected from natural sources. With the help of genomic DNA sequencing, the gene was targeted by gene deletion or disruption, followed by the detection of loss of target compound production. The targeted gene cluster was validated and characterized by heterologous expression.

Creative Enzymes is a leading company specializing in enzyme-related solutions. We are committed to providing innovative enzyme products and services to our customers worldwide. In the field of Metagenome Screening, we apply our advanced technology and expertise to the discovery and development of novel enzymes with unique functions and potential for a wide range of applications.

Our Service Process

1. Sample collection and processing

We provide professional guidance and support to ensure that you collect samples suitable for screening. Samples can come from different microbial environments, such as terrestrial, aquatic, parasitic, artificial, and other specialized environments.

2. DNA extraction and library construction

We use advanced DNA extraction techniques to extract the total DNA of microbial communities from the samples using direct and indirect extraction methods, followed by ligating the extracted genomic DNA into suitable vectors and transforming the host bacteria to construct macro-genomic libraries for subsequent screening analyses.

3. Enzyme screening

Matagenome mining of novel biocatalysts includes activity-based screening and sequence-based screening.

• Sequence-based screening (no need to rely on the expression of recombinant genes in exogenous hosts)
  By designing sequence probes or PCR primers for known functional genes, we rely on the DNA sequence of the conserved region of the target gene for hybridization or PCR amplification screening to obtain the target gene, and then heterologous expression of the target gene to obtain biologically active metabolites.
• Function-based screening (not dependent on any known sequence information)
  We screen directly based on the traits expressed by the target clones in the library on selective media.

4. Molecular and biochemical characterization

We look for ORF, catalytic activity substrate specificity, tolerance, and other properties by sequencing.

Why Choose Our Service?

• Leading technology: With advanced macro-genomics technology and professional enzyme screening experience, we can provide high-quality and high-efficiency services.
• Diversified resources: We can screen samples for different environments and obtain diversified enzyme resources, providing more choices for your research and application.
• Individualized customization: We develop individualized experimental plans and strategies according to your project needs and goals to achieve the best screening results.
• Professional team: We have a professional team of scientists with rich experience in enzyme screening and molecular biology, able to provide comprehensive technical support and solutions.
• Confidentiality and Reliability: We strictly observe the confidentiality requirements of our clients and ensure the safety and reliability of data.

We offer enzyme metagenome screening services aimed at discovering novel enzymes with specific catalytic activities and functions from a variety of environmental samples. If you are interested in metagenome screening for enzyme services or other enzyme-related needs, please contact our customer service team. We look forward to working with you to provide excellent support and service for your research and applications.

Figure 1 Construction and screening of metagenomic libraries.
(Microbiology and Molecular Biology Reviews 2004)