Project Number: 1935-41440-012-00
Project Type: Appropriated

Start Date: Oct 01, 2002
End Date: Aug 31, 2004

Objective:
1. Characterize structural and functional properties of proteinaceous rendering byproducts. 2. Develop chemoenzymatic approaches to modification for added value of meat, bone, and blood meal from rendering processes. 3. Develop new technologies for the conversion of proteinaceous rendering byproducts into biomaterials.

Approach:
Methods already in use for characterizing processed agricultural proteins will be adapted for use with the protein recovered from rendering processes. Transglutaminase and other crosslinking enzymes will be investigated for their ability to attach functional amines to this protein substrate as well as to catalyze the formation of intermolecular crosslinks. Computer simulations, chemical and biochemical modifications, spectroscopic, physical and biochemical studies, will be used to predict and evaluate potential and actual enzymatic crosslinking or modification of the proteins. Once crosslinking or modification is demonstrated, the functionality of these new materials will be evaluated for their potential for use in industrial applications. Optimization of the processes will be developed in collaboration with industrial partners.

Project Team

Marmer, William Garcia, Rafael Taylor, Maryann Brown, Eleanor

Project Annual Reports

FY 2003