The Strain Engineering Platform at the Joint Genome Institute (JGI)

To understand the molecular mechanisms of the relationship between individual microbes and their community, and their interactions with the environment, we need time-and cost-efficient technologies for efficient genetic manipulation of diverse microbes. To address this challenge, the JGI strain engineering platform focuses on both classical and novel genetic tools development in diverse microbes. First, we adopted Golden-Gate Assembly approach using standard genetic parts to enable fast plasmid vector engineering. Second, we develop novel conjugation transformation donor strains to bypass host restriction-modification systems for efficient DNA delivery. Third, we continuously expand heterologous expression hosts using the chassis-independent recombinase-assisted genome engineering (CRAGE) technology, to enable easy chromosomal integration of large pathways into diverse hosts. As a DOE-funded user facility, we provide various capabilities to users. One major route is to submit a proposal through our Community Science Program (CSP) Annual Call, and there is no cost to the user and no granting of funds.