Biosynthesis of commodity chemicals

Abstract

Methods, enzymes, recombinant microorganism, and microbial systems are provided for converting suitable monosaccharides or oligosaccharides, such as those derived from biomass, as well as various aldehydes and/or ketones, into commodity chemicals, such as biofuels. Commodity chemicals produced by the methods described herein are also provided. Commodity chemical enriched, refinery-produced petroleum products are also provided, as well as methods for producing the same.

1 . A recombinant microorganism, comprising:
 a) isobutyraldehyde;   b) 3-hydroxy-2,2,4-trimethylpentanal and   c) recombinant DNA encoding an aldolase   wherein said aldolase is expressed in said microorganism and said isobutyraldehyde is converted to 3-hydroxy-2,2,4-trimethylpentanal by said aldolase.   
     
     
         2 . The microorganism of  claim 1 , wherein the microorganism is yeast. 
     
     
         3 . The microorganism of  claim 1  wherein the microorganism is  E. coli.    
     
     
         4 . The microorganism of  claim 1 , wherein said aldolase is derived from  Thermotoga maritima.