Synthetic Genomics Inc. and BP to Explore Bioconversion of Hydrocarbons into Cleaner Fuels

ROCKVILLE, Md., June 13 /PRNewswire/ -- Synthetic Genomics Inc., a privately-held company dedicated to commercializing synthetic genomic processes and naturally occurring processes for alternative energy solutions, today announced a significant, long-term research and development deal with BP.

The deal between BP and Synthetic Genomics is centered on developing biological conversion processes for subsurface hydrocarbons that could lead to cleaner energy production and improved recovery rates. As part of the agreement, BP has also made an equity investment in Synthetic Genomics.

Microbes are key components in sustaining and maintaining life on Earth, and genomics is leading to an enhanced understanding of these organisms. In the first phase of the BP/Synthetic Genomics program, the research will focus on gaining a better understanding of microbial communities in various hydrocarbon formations such as oil, natural gas, coal and shale. Synthetic Genomics, which was founded by genome pioneer J Craig Venter, Ph.D., will use its expertise in environmental DNA sequencing and microbial cell culturing to produce the first comprehensive genomic study of microbial populations living in these environments. Once the basic science research phases are complete, BP and Synthetic Genomics will seek to jointly commercialize the technologies developed.

"We believe that one of the most promising solutions to producing cleaner fuels will be found through genomic-driven advances," said Dr. Venter. "Through our research collaboration with BP, we will achieve a new and better understanding of the subsurface hydrocarbon bioconversion process which we are confident will yield substantial cleaner energy sources."

The overall goal of Synthetic Genomics is to discover and/or design new genomes that will code for new types of cells with desired properties for bioenergy or specific chemical production. In this project, Synthetic Genomics scientists hope to better understand hydrocarbon metabolism by sequencing the genomes and culturing the cells of the naturally occurring microbes that thrive in subsurface hydrocarbons.

Tony Meggs, Group Vice President of Technology at BP, adds: "This collaboration is an exciting development that could lead to an unprecedented understanding of the microbial activity in the subsurface; and eventually to the development of more environmentally-friendly and efficient energy production and recovery techniques."

About Synthetic Genomics Inc.

Synthetic Genomics Inc., a privately-held company founded in 2005 and located in Rockville, Maryland and La Jolla, California, is dedicated to developing and commercializing synthetic genomic and naturally occurring processes for the production of clean, renewable alternative energy solutions. Recent advances in the field of synthetic genomics present seemingly limitless applications that could revolutionize production of energy, chemicals and pharmaceuticals and enable carbon sequestration and environmental remediation. For more information, visit http://www.syntheticgenomics.com/.

About BP

BP is of one of the world's largest energy companies, providing its customers with fuel for transportation, energy for heat and light, retail services and petrochemicals products for everyday items. BP is one of the world's largest purveyors of biofuels, blending more than 700 million gallons of biofuels globally in 2006. In June 2006 BP announced it would establish the Energy Biosciences Institute and in November 2006 announced the formation of its biofuels business. BP's decision to devote significant resources to widening the availability of biofuels is part of its strategy of identifying low carbon or renewable energy sources for the future. BP spends significant amounts every year on university technology programs around the world, spanning every aspect of its current business, and is now seeking to foster further innovation in the industry through selected collaborations with innovative technology companies. For more information, visit http://www.bp.com/.