Industrial riboflavin (vitamin B2) biosynthesis: Which microorganism is noted for greater stability and robustness of riboflavin-producing capacity in industrial fermentations?

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: Ashbya gossypii

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
Riboflavin is produced at scale via microbial fermentation. Strain stability across many generations is essential for consistent titers, simplified seed trains, and reliable downstream processing.



Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Candidates include classic riboflavin producers and unrelated yeasts.
  • We are selecting the organism recognized for stable, high-level production.
  • Industrial criteria: genetic stability, productivity, and manageable morphology.



Concept / Approach:
Ashbya gossypii, a filamentous fungus, has been widely adopted for riboflavin manufacture because engineered strains maintain robust overproduction phenotypes, with stable riboflavin biosynthetic gene expression over extended runs. Although Eremothecium ashbyii also produces riboflavin, industrial practice shifted toward A. gossypii for consistency and process performance.



Step-by-Step Solution:
Compare historical and modern producers.Note the stability and yields reported for A. gossypii.Select ‘‘Ashbya gossypii’’ as the most stable, industry-preferred option.



Verification / Alternative check:
Patents and process descriptions cite A. gossypii strains with sustained titers and improved control versus legacy producers.



Why Other Options Are Wrong:

  • E. ashbyii: Valid producer but generally less favored for stability.
  • Candida flareri/S. cerevisiae: Not standard riboflavin overproducers at industrial scale.
  • None: Incorrect; a well-known stable producer exists.



Common Pitfalls:
Equating any riboflavin-positive microbe with an optimal industrial chassis; stability under production pressure is decisive.



Final Answer:
Ashbya gossypii.


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