This proposal seeks to address the critical need for biofuels by developing a crispr-based research and training program at aamu

The Department of Agriculture National Institute of Food and Agriculture awarded Alabama A & M University $300,000 on January 1, 2026, under the 1890 Institution Capacity Building Grants program (CFDA 10.216) to develop a CRISPR-based research and training initiative in biofuels production.

The project establishes a long-term bioenergy platform centered on genetic enhancement of the oleaginous yeast Yarrowia lipolytica through CRISPR-CAS9 gene editing to optimize lipid accumulation and improve biofuel yield and quality. The research targets genes involved in phospholipid biosynthesis pathways—specifically the Kennedy pathway, which remains largely uncharted in Y. lipolytica—to identify modifications that enhance lipid production for commercial-scale biofuel applications. Concurrently, the award funds student workforce development and training in CRISPR technology, aligning with national agricultural initiatives and supporting Executive Order 14154 on unleashing American energy.

Work is performed in Normal and Huntsville, Alabama, through December 31, 2028. The 1890 Institution Capacity Building Grants program strengthens research, Extension, and teaching capacity at historically Black land-grant universities established under the Second Morrill Act of 1890.

This proposal aims to develop a long-term bioenergy platform using the oleaginous yeast yarrowia lipolytica. By genetically enhancing this lipid-producing yeast, we seek to bridge the GAP between research and commercial-scale biofuel production. Leveraging the precision of crispr-based gene editing we will identify genes involved in lipid biosynthesis through targeted genome modifications. Concurrently, we will train a student body in crispr technology supporting workforce development and aligning with national agricultural initiatives. Successful implementation of this project is expected to advance biofuel production, unleashother energy sources and elevate aamu's research standing. Phospholipids are synthesized primarily through the CDP-DAG pathway in yeasts. However, an alternative route, the kennedy pathway also contributes to phospholipid biosynthesis. This pathway has been extensively studied in saccharomyces cerevisiae but its role in y. Lipolytica remains largely uncharted. By employing crispr-CAS9 technology we will generate mutants targeting key genes in the kennedy pathway. A comprehensive understanding of the lipid biosynthetic machinery is crucial for optimizing y. Lipolytica as a platform for biofuel production. By manipulating key genes in the phospholipid synthesis pathways, we can potentially enhance lipid accumulation modify lipid composition and improve biofuel yield and quality. This project supports EO 14154 unleashing american energy.