A propionate-inducible expression system based on the Corynebacterium glutamicum prpD2 promoter and PrpR activator and its application for the redirection of amino acid biosynthesis pathways

► A novel C. glutamicum expression system, inducible by propionate, was developed. ► The system is sensitive and cheap, since only 1 mg l−1 is sufficient for full induction. ► The system works in minimal and complex media, ideal for industrial application. ► The system was employed for the redirection of metabolites in a production strain.