In the collaboration, existing production processes will be optimised using highly developed micro-organisms or "designer bugs" with a goal of achieving higher yields using less energy.
Wolfgang Plischke, responsible for innovation, technology and environment within the managing board of Bayer, said the company expected the optimisation programme planned for the complete group to result in a 10% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions.
"The industrial use of biotechnologically optimised micro-organisms will help us to improve the processes for the conversion of steroidal intermediates and to save resources," added Dr Simone Kardinahl, head of microbiological production and development at Bayer Schering Pharma's Bergkamen plant.
Photo courtesy of Brain AG
