Microfluidics for High-Throughput Screening and Directed Evolution in Agrochemical R&D

Abstract

Directed evolution (DE) optimizes biomolecules through natural selection principles, revolutionizing the development of proteins, nucleic acids, and strains for various applications. However, conventional DE methods face limitations in screening throughput, which can prevent the identification of rare but optimal variants within a population. Droplet-based microfluidics enable the transfer of conventional screening methods into nanolitre- scale droplets, enabling high-throughput screening while preserving genotype-phenotype connections. This technology allows rapid screening of millions of variants, opening new possibilities for microbial strain engineering and metabolite production optimization. We discuss the integration of microfluidics into DE workflows and reflect on its potential applications in agrochemical research, including enzyme evolution, crop trait improvement, and natural product biosynthesis.