A process-based dynamic model for succinic acid production by Actinobacillus succinogenes: regulatory role of ATP/ADP balance

Model simulations accurately reproduce microbial growth and succinic acid production in anaerobic batch cultures at different initial glucose concentrations. Results reveal that the main limitations to maximal succinic acid production are glucose uptake restrictions and energy homeostasis costs (ATP/ADP balance) of the microbial population. The process-based modeling approach effectively describes the main metabolic processes and their regulation, providing a useful tool to define working conditions and overcome the criticalities of the SA fermentation process.