High-value-added PHA applications should be developed simultaneously,
especially the implant biomaterials that have begun to be recognized by the FDA.
In addition, chiral monomers should be further exploited for medical usages
(Fig. 7). So far, only 3HB and its derivatives have been studied and have revealed
obvious therapeutic efforts, more monomers should be tested for medical efficacy.
The PHA surface binding proteins, including PhaP, PhaZ, and PhaC, can be
developed into a protein purification system or specific drug delivery tools. More
applications based on these proteins should be developed.
Applications of PHA
• Bioplastics for packaging
• Heat sensitive adhesives
• Latex
• Smart gel
• Chiral intermediates for fine chemicals
• Biofuels
• Bio-implant materials
• Drug delivery carriers
• Chiral monomers as drugs
• Oligo-HA as nutrition supplements
• PHA synthesis as a metabolic regulator
• PHA synthesis to increase robustness of
industrial microorganisms
• PHA granule binding protein Phasin for
– Protein purification
– Specific drug delivery
O
R
-[O-C*H-(CH2)m-C-]n-
Material
Industry
Fuel Industry
Medical Industry
Fig. 7