Minrui Ren has been a PhD student in the Schada von Borzyskowski lab since September 2022, who is always fascinated by the natural world.

More information about Minrui Ren

Research

My research focuses on the innovative field of plastic upcycling, specifically targeting the conversion of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) waste into valuable products. By studying the metabolic pathways in the bacterium Paracoccus denitrificans, we aim to understand and enhance the processes involved in breaking down ethylene glycol (EG), a major byproduct of PET degradation. This work has the potential to significantly reduce plastic pollution and contribute to sustainable development.

To achieve our goals, we are investigating the roles of various enzymes within the ethylene glycol assimilation pathway. Our research not only identifies the key enzymes involved but also explores the regulatory mechanisms that control these pathways. In addition to my primary research, I am involved in several side projects. One notable project is the first characterization and conservation needs of a large maternity colony of lesser horseshoe bats (Rhinolophus hipposideros) in Aljezur, Portugal. This study highlights the importance of preserving bat habitats and understanding their ecological roles (read more).

Another exciting project is the development of an orthogonal T7 expression system in Klebsiella pneumoniae. This work focuses on enhancing gene expression systems for better protein production and biotechnological applications (read more). Currently, I am engaged in the screening and library work, as well as protein structure analysis for these projects.

We are looking for enthusiastic and motivated internship students to join our team. This is a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in a cutting-edge research environment, contribute to meaningful environmental solutions, and develop valuable skills in biotechnology, metabolic engineering, and conservation biology. If you are interested in joining our study, please reach out for more information.

Brief biography

As a researcher, she believes that a positive and inclusive atmosphere is essential for innovative and effective research. She is actively looking for enthusiastic and motivated students to join her team.

Key publications

Zhao, P., Ren, M., Ge, X., Tian, P., & Tan, T. (2020). Development of orthogonal T7 expression system in Klebsiella pneumoniae. Biotechnology and Bioengineering, 117(8), 2446-2459..

Calderoni, G., Krzemińska, S., Górska, M., Paladini, M., Ren, M., Apoznański, G., ... & Kokurewicz, T. (2024). First characterisation and conservation needs of a large maternity colony of lesser horseshoe bats (Rhinolophus hipposideros) in Aljezur, Portugal. The European Zoological Journal, 91(1), 235-244.

Zhao, Peng, et al. "Development of orthogonal T7 expression system in Klebsiella pneumoniae." Biotechnology and Bioengineering 117.8 (2020): 2446-2459.

Website on research

Natural and Synthetic Microbial Biochemistry | The SvB Lab (svb-lab.com)