Core Viewpoint - The SynBioCon 2025 conference will focus on the integration of AI with biomanufacturing, green chemistry, new materials, future food, and agriculture, aiming to explore the development trends of the biomanufacturing industry during the 14th Five-Year Plan period [1][2]. Group 1: Conference Overview - The conference will take place from August 20-22, 2025, at the Sheraton Hotel in Ningbo, Zhejiang [1]. - It will feature various activities including a youth forum, high-level discussions, and a closed-door seminar on the "2025 AI Empowering Biomanufacturing Industry Innovation Development Blue Book" [1][2]. Group 2: Organizing Institutions - The event is organized by Ningbo Detaizhong Research Information Technology Co., Ltd. (DT New Materials) and supported by several academic and industry institutions, including Peking University Ningbo Institute of Ocean Medicine and Ningbo Enzyme Science Biotechnology Co., Ltd. [2]. Group 3: Agenda Highlights - Day 1 will include registration, a high-level discussion on biomanufacturing, and a youth forum focused on innovation [5][9]. - Day 2 will feature an opening ceremony, macro forums on biomanufacturing, and specialized discussions on green chemistry and new materials [6][12]. - Day 3 will focus on AI applications in biomanufacturing and future food and agriculture discussions [27][30]. Group 4: Key Publications - The conference will announce the "China Synthetic Biology Industry Distribution Map (2025 Edition)" which includes a list of over 500 representative companies in the biomanufacturing sector [33].

Group 1 - The core viewpoint emphasizes the importance of promoting biotechnology in the food industry to expand agricultural development space and ensure food security [1] - The "14th Five-Year Plan for Biotechnology Development" aims to transition from "solving hunger" to "diverse nutrition," focusing on modernizing agriculture and meeting higher consumer expectations for food [1] - Key areas of focus include biological breeding, bio-fertilizers, bio-feed, and bio-pesticides, with the goal of launching new agricultural bio-products and establishing a demonstration and promotion system for bio-agriculture [1] Group 2 - Recent policies from the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology and the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs support crop improvement and innovation in agricultural inputs [2] - The future of food is expected to leverage synthetic biology, artificial intelligence, and smart manufacturing, addressing global food supply and safety issues while promoting factory-based production [2] - Investment interest is growing in alternative proteins, functional ingredients, and synthetic biology foods, driven by breakthroughs in biomanufacturing technologies and rising health and sustainability demands [2]

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the development of humanized "4D" collagen protein based on natural collagen, aiming to address the immunogenicity and pathogenic risks associated with traditional animal-derived collagen [1]. Group 1: Research and Development - The research team led by Professor Li Shuang from South China University of Technology focuses on biomimetic "honeycomb" porous structures for molecular construction, optimizing collagen triple helix sequences through gene editing [1]. - The team combines computer simulation design with cross-scale self-assembly templates to achieve a synergistic optimization of high specific surface area, strong mechanical strength, and biological activity [1]. - Techniques such as transmission electron microscopy are utilized to analyze the hierarchical structure, and in vitro cell experiments validate the biocompatibility and regenerative efficacy of the developed materials [1]. Group 2: Industry Applications - The innovative collagen material is expected to provide new biological materials for regenerative medicine, promoting upgrades in industries such as medical aesthetics and bone repair [1]. - Professor Li Shuang will present a talk titled "Molecular Design of Humanized '4D' Collagen Protein" at the SynBioCon 2025 conference, which focuses on synthetic biology and green biological manufacturing [1][14]. Group 3: Conference Details - The SynBioCon 2025 conference will be held from August 20-22 in Ningbo, Zhejiang, focusing on the intersection of AI and biological manufacturing, as well as advancements in green chemistry, new materials, future food, and agriculture [14]. - The conference will feature various activities, including a youth forum on biological manufacturing, high-level discussions on the industry, and a closed-door seminar on the "2025 Artificial Intelligence Empowering Biological Manufacturing Industry Innovation Development Blue Book" [14][15].

Core Viewpoint - The article emphasizes the significance of high-value compounds, such as amino acids and pharmaceutical intermediates, in the field of biomanufacturing, highlighting China's role as a major producer supporting global industry development [1]. Group 1: Biomanufacturing and Synthetic Biology - High-value compounds are crucial in biomanufacturing, with China being a leading producer in this sector [1]. - A major bottleneck in synthetic biology is the insufficient availability of biological components, which can be addressed through breakthroughs in enzyme design and gene editing technologies [1]. - The research team led by Professor Feng Yan from Shanghai Jiao Tong University focuses on developing efficient biocatalysts and new synthetic pathways for artificial compounds, surpassing natural evolution [1][3]. Group 2: Research Innovations - The research team utilizes second-generation sequencing for functional analysis of large mutation libraries, enabling rapid identification of important protein scenarios [1]. - The team has developed methods to create new proteins with over 50% sequence variation, which can be applied in the production of industrial enzymes [1]. Group 3: Upcoming Conference - The SynBioCon 2025 conference will be held from August 20-22 in Ningbo, focusing on AI and biomanufacturing, as well as opportunities in green chemistry, new materials, future food, and agriculture [6]. - The conference will feature various activities, including a macro forum on biomanufacturing, youth forums, and discussions on the 2025 Blue Book for AI-enabled biomanufacturing innovation [6][7].

Core Insights - The State-owned Assets Supervision and Administration Commission (SASAC) is focusing on exploring effective ways for investors to promote technological and industrial innovation, enhancing the "innovation resilience" of central enterprises [1][3] - Central enterprises are encouraged to accelerate the cultivation of new productive forces and shift from "sweat-type growth" driven by substantial input to "wisdom-type growth" driven by technological innovation [1][2] Group 1: Strategic Focus - SASAC emphasizes the importance of strategic orientation and long-termism, balancing traditional and emerging industries while expanding strategic emerging industries and future industries [1][3] - Central enterprises are urged to enhance their technological innovation capabilities and apply these innovations to specific industries and supply chains, transforming traditional industries and nurturing emerging ones [3][4] Group 2: Investment Trends - In 2022, central enterprises completed investments in strategic emerging industries totaling 2.7 trillion yuan, a year-on-year increase of 21.8%, with these investments accounting for over 40% of total investments for the first time [6][7] - In the first quarter of 2023, investments in strategic emerging industries by central enterprises grew by 6.6% year-on-year, with 79 future industry-related enterprises established [7] Group 3: Sectoral Development - Central enterprises are focusing on sectors such as artificial intelligence, quantum technology, and biomanufacturing, aiming to enhance their core competitiveness and development momentum [6][8] - SASAC is promoting a stable growth mechanism for investments in emerging industries, with a focus on high-quality investments that lead to high-value growth [5][7]

Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the journey and contributions of Qi Qingsheng in the field of microbiology, emphasizing his role in synthetic biology, biomanufacturing, and resource recycling, as well as his commitment to education and nurturing future talents in the discipline [1][9][19]. Group 1: Academic Journey - Qi Qingsheng's interest in microbiology was sparked by a chance encounter with microbiologist Wang Zunong, leading him to excel in the field at Shandong University [3][4]. - He faced challenges during his undergraduate studies due to the extensive memorization required in microbiology, which later helped him guide students in overcoming academic hurdles [5]. - After completing his master's degree in 1992, he joined the team to establish the National Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology, overcoming initial hardships to lay a solid foundation for future research [6][9]. Group 2: Research Contributions - Upon returning from Germany with a PhD in molecular microbiology, Qi recognized the potential of synthetic biology in China and began promoting its application domestically in 2008 [9][11]. - He led significant projects focusing on the biodegradation of waste plastics, securing 15 million in funding for international collaboration in 2018, demonstrating the integration of synthetic biology with circular economy principles [11][19]. Group 3: Educational Impact - Qi has mentored over 160 students, emphasizing the importance of mutual effort between mentors and students in achieving academic success [13][14]. - He encourages students to engage in research projects to enhance their practical skills and understanding of theoretical concepts, advocating for a balance between hard work and awareness of scientific trends [15][19]. Group 4: Future of Microbiology - Qi expresses confidence in the broad applications of microbiology across various sectors, including food fermentation, environmental protection, and biomanufacturing, urging young scholars to explore unknown fields [18][19]. - He stresses the need for microbiology to align with national strategic demands and to bridge the gap between fundamental research and industrial application [19][21].

Core Insights - The article highlights the upcoming SynBioCon 2025, focusing on advancements in synthetic biology and green manufacturing, scheduled for August 20-22, 2025, in Ningbo, Zhejiang [6][2]. Group 1: Event Overview - SynBioCon 2025 is organized by DT New Materials, with support from various institutions including Peking University Ningbo Institute of Oceanography and Enzyme Bioengineering [6]. - The conference aims to explore the integration of AI in biological manufacturing, advancements in green chemistry, new materials, future food, and agriculture [6]. Group 2: Key Themes and Discussions - The event will cover the "1+3" theme, focusing on AI and biological manufacturing, and will discuss the industrialization progress and opportunities in related fields [6]. - It will feature discussions on the development trends of the biological manufacturing industry during the 14th Five-Year Plan, innovations that sustain the industry, and the transfer of technological achievements [6]. Group 3: Agenda Highlights - The agenda includes a high-level roundtable on biological manufacturing, a youth forum, and several specialized forums on green chemistry, AI in biological manufacturing, and future food and agriculture [7]. - Notable activities include a welcome dinner and a technology achievement exhibition, aimed at fostering collaboration and innovation within the industry [7].

Core Insights - National Investment Group's subsidiary, Guotou Juli, has completed a strategic investment of 450 million RMB in the synthetic biology company Yikolei Biotech, marking another significant investment in the biomanufacturing sector following a previous investment of 300 million RMB in Muen Biotech in 2024 [1][2]. Company Overview - Yikolei Biotech, established in 2015, has developed a comprehensive synthetic biology technology pathway and industrial production capabilities, focusing on enzyme-biosynthesis routes and intelligent cell design [3]. - The company has a diverse product matrix and has become a strategic partner for several industry giants, maintaining a leading position in biomedicine and green agriculture, with recent breakthroughs in the nutrition and health sector [5]. Product Innovations - Yikolei Biotech is the first company in China to receive approval for several functional food ingredients, including HMOs (human milk oligosaccharides), steviol glycosides, and sialic acid [5]. Industry Event - The 2025 Synthetic Biology and Green Biomanufacturing Conference (SynBioCon 2025) will be held from August 20-22 in Ningbo, Zhejiang, focusing on AI and biomanufacturing, green chemicals, new materials, future food, and agriculture [7]. - The conference aims to explore the development trends of the biomanufacturing industry during the 14th Five-Year Plan, emphasizing technology transfer, product scaling, and talent acquisition [7].

Core Insights - Astaxanthin is recognized as one of the strongest natural antioxidants, with activity exceeding that of vitamin E by over 500 times. It has significant health benefits including antioxidant, anti-cancer, cardiovascular protection, and immune enhancement, and is widely used in animal feed, health supplements, cosmetics, and medical formulations [1] - The global market for astaxanthin is substantial, with a value of $3.7 billion in 2022 and projected to reach $11 billion by 2032, reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 11.9%. It has received regulatory approvals in multiple countries including the EU, FDA, and China [1] - The primary natural sources of astaxanthin are Haematococcus pluvialis and Xanthophyllomyces dendrorhous, with the latter recognized for its advantages in industrial production [1] Summary by Sections Industrial Production Challenges - The low-temperature fermentation process (20-22°C) of Xanthophyllomyces dendrorhous has been a major bottleneck in the industrial production of astaxanthin, accounting for 30-50% of the total production energy consumption [3] Research Breakthroughs - A research team from Nanjing University of Technology has developed a mutant strain LX6 of Xanthophyllomyces dendrorhous that can efficiently synthesize astaxanthin at room temperature (25°C). This breakthrough lays the foundation for low-cost industrial production [3][5] - The mutant strain LX6 shows a 2.5-fold increase in biomass and a 6.1-fold increase in astaxanthin yield compared to the original strain, with astaxanthin content increasing by 2.5 times [5] Mechanism of Temperature Tolerance - The study provided a comprehensive analysis of the temperature tolerance mechanisms of the mutant strain LX6, revealing that it has a more intact cell structure and increased membrane fluidity due to a 2.8-fold increase in unsaturated fatty acids [7] - Significant changes in intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, ATP, and NADPH concentrations were observed, providing sufficient energy supply and a favorable redox state for astaxanthin synthesis [7] Genetic Insights - Four core mutation genes were identified through comparative genomics: IDH2, HMGR, CRTYB, and FAD3, which enhance the astaxanthin synthesis pathway [8] - Molecular docking analysis indicated that mutations in HMGR and CRTYB lead to favorable conformational changes in their substrate binding pockets, significantly strengthening the astaxanthin synthesis pathway [8] Industrial Validation - The LX6 strain achieved a record production of 1120 mg/L of astaxanthin in a 200-L bioreactor using sweet sorghum juice as a substrate, with a production cost reduction of 34.2% [12] - This research not only created a milestone strain for high-yield astaxanthin production but also provides a technical reference for the energy-efficient and low-carbon industrial bio-manufacturing of high-value natural products [12]

Group 1 - The first Global Technology Innovation Competition was launched in Hangzhou on July 22, focusing on attracting top global innovation teams and quality technology projects to Zhejiang, promoting the integration of technological and industrial innovation [1][2] - The competition will last approximately four months and is centered around four thematic tracks: humanoid robots, biomanufacturing, AI + eye health, and aerospace, with different districts in Hangzhou and other cities hosting each track [1][2] - The aerospace track will address key technological challenges in the rapid development of commercial aerospace, selecting innovative technology projects with significant market application potential [1][2] Group 2 - Zhujiajian City, as the host for the aerospace track, will provide support in terms of funding, talent, and project implementation, including a talent science and technology fund of up to 20 million yuan for qualifying projects [2] - Financial support policies for quality projects include the establishment of a future industry fund alliance, dedicated credit limits, and cross-border financing policy support [2] - The expert advisory committee for the competition consists of 188 authoritative experts, including 18 academicians, ensuring the competition's professionalism, foresight, and fairness [2]