Development of a CRISPR activation system for targeted gene upregulation in Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803.

ABSTRACT: The photosynthetic cyanobacterium Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803 offers a promising sustainable solution for simultaneous CO₂ fixation and compound bioproduction. While various heterologous products have now been synthesised in Synechocystis, limited genetic tools hinder further strain engineering for efficient production. Here, we present a versatile CRISPR activation (CRISPRa) system for Synechocystis, enabling robust multiplexed activation of both heterologous and endogenous targets. Following tool characterisation, we applied CRISPRa to explore targets influencing biofuel production, specifically isobutanol (IB) and 3-methyl-1-butanol (3M1B), demonstrating a proof-of-concept approach to identify key reactions constraining compound biosynthesis. Notably, individual upregulation o

SUBMITTER: Bourgade B 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12095680 | biostudies-literature | 2025 May

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature