Advances in biotechnological production of β-alanine

β-Alanine (3-aminopropionic acid) is the only naturally occurring β-type amino acid. Although it not incorporated into proteins, has important physiological functions in metabolism of animals, plants and microorganisms. Furthermore, attracted great interest due to its wide usage as a precursor many significant industrial chemicals for medicine, feed, food, environmental applications other fields. With depletion fossil fuels concerns regarding issues, biological production β-alanine more attention relative chemical methods. In this review, we first summarize pathways through which natural microorganisms synthesize β-alanine. Then, current research progress synthesis also elaborated. Finally, discuss main problems challenges optimizing pathways, offering perspectives on promising new approaches.