BASF, the Austrian Research Centre of Industrial Biotechnology (ACIB) and the University of Graz in Austria have co-developed a computer-assisted regression model to improve enzyme performance and enable biocatalytic processes to be scaled up faster. With this model, they said, “it becomes easier to determine the optimal combination as only a few preliminary lab tests, such as determining the unfolding curve of the enzyme, are necessary”.

Through its own venture capital fund of Solvay Ventures, Solvay has made an unspecified investment in US-based DMC (Dynamic Metabolic Control) Biotechnologies. The $34-million Series B funding round also included Cibus Enterprise, Capricorn Partners, Sofinnova Partners, Breakthrough Energy Ventures, SCG, Boulder Ventures and Michelin.

Enzymatic biocatalyst specialist Enzymaster is to create a formal presence in the US, aided by business management consultancy Haig Barrett, which specialises in the life sciences and speciality chemicals. This will soon include facilities in the US, the company said.

Enzymaster is now launching business relationship models to address the specific needs of the North American market. These include fee-for-service models with client-centric IP constructs, development programmes including commercial manufacturing of engineered enzymes and collaborative engineering partnerships.