Seminar: Dr. Guanqun Chen (University of Alberta, Canada)

Title: Unraveling the Potential of Acyl-CoA:Diacylglycerol Acyltransferases (DGATs) for Lipid Biochemistry and Biotechnology in the Green Lineage

Speaker: Dr. Guanqun (Gavin) Chen

Host: Dr. Yantao Li

Contact imetdirectorsoffice@umces.edu for meeting information.

Abstract:  Triacylglycerol is the primary component of vegetable oil, with acyl-CoA:diacylglycerol acyltransferase (DGAT) catalyzing the last step in its biosynthesis. This seminar will discuss plant and microalgal DGATs, highlighting their biochemical properties and biotechnological applications. Beginning with insights into canola DGAT1, the world's second-largest oilseed crop, the presentation will then progress to the development of high-performance DGAT variants through directed evolution for biotechnological applications. The discussion will subsequently shift to the characterization and improvement of microalgal DGATs. The seminar will also discuss a biotechnological case study integrating DGAT with other enzymes to enhance seed quality and wrap up with future perspectives of plant and microalgal DGAT research.