Itaconic acid - A biotechnological process in change

► Itaconic acid is a platform chemical currently produced by Aspergillus terreus. ► The itaconic acid biosynthesis pathway and gene region have been finally identified. ► Current optimisation targets: space-time yield, new substrates, final concentration. ► New microbial production platforms are developed which might replace A. terreus. ► Reliable small scale screening platforms are mandatory for further improvement.