New Developments at Evonik

Evonik’s objective is to bring new innovations and share new findings within the ceramide research field on a regular basis, according to the company. Therefore, as opposed to chemical synthesis, Evonik has developed a patented biotechnological green production process based on the fermentation of a non-conventional yeast called Wickerhamomyces ciferrii (formerly known as Pichia ciferrii). This yeast produces high amounts of the ceramide precursor phytosphingosine, which is secreted into the growth medium, extracted and further converted into a range of ceramides marketed as valuable cosmetic ingredients. The ceramide biosynthesis pathway is conserved from yeast to man. So, Evonik’s ceramides have the same stereochemical conformation as the ceramides in our skin; i.e. they are truly skin-identical, according to the company.

The next step was to analyze the genome sequence of Wickerhamomyces ciferrii, which will help to get valuable information for the general understanding of sphingolipid biosynthesis. This will likely pave the way for the development of tailor-made yeast strains with improved sphingolipid production capabilities.

Tegosoft AC is an emollient with a non-oily skin feel.

Scientists from Evonik’s Consumer Specialties business unit, together with colleagues from the Science-to-Business Center Biotechnology and collaboration partners from academia, recently determined the draft Wickerhamomyces ciferrii genome sequence. The project was funded by the Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF).

In other news, a noticeable trend across all segments is the demand for natural based products. In addition, there is a development toward lighter textures in the skin care segment. Tegosoft AC is an emollient combining these trends with a non-oily skin feel. It is also 100% vegetable based as well as NaTrue and Cosmos certified.

More info: www.evonik.com