1
|
Song Y, Wang F, Chen L, Zhang W. Engineering Fatty Acid Biosynthesis in Microalgae: Recent Progress and Perspectives. Mar Drugs 2024; 22:216. [PMID: 38786607 PMCID: PMC11122798 DOI: 10.3390/md22050216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2024] [Revised: 05/06/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Microalgal lipids hold significant potential for the production of biodiesel and dietary supplements. To enhance their cost-effectiveness and commercial competitiveness, it is imperative to improve microalgal lipid productivity. Metabolic engineering that targets the key enzymes of the fatty acid synthesis pathway, along with transcription factor engineering, are effective strategies for improving lipid productivity in microalgae. This review provides a summary of the advancements made in the past 5 years in engineering the fatty acid biosynthetic pathway in eukaryotic microalgae. Furthermore, this review offers insights into transcriptional regulatory mechanisms and transcription factor engineering aimed at enhancing lipid production in eukaryotic microalgae. Finally, the review discusses the challenges and future perspectives associated with utilizing microalgae for the efficient production of lipids.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yanhui Song
- Laboratory of Synthetic Microbiology, School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300350, China; (Y.S.); (L.C.)
- Key Laboratory of Systems Bioengineering (Ministry of Education), Tianjin University, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Fangzhong Wang
- Laboratory of Synthetic Microbiology, School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300350, China; (Y.S.); (L.C.)
- Key Laboratory of Systems Bioengineering (Ministry of Education), Tianjin University, Tianjin 300350, China
- Center for Biosafety Research and Strategy, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China
| | - Lei Chen
- Laboratory of Synthetic Microbiology, School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300350, China; (Y.S.); (L.C.)
- Key Laboratory of Systems Bioengineering (Ministry of Education), Tianjin University, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Weiwen Zhang
- Laboratory of Synthetic Microbiology, School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300350, China; (Y.S.); (L.C.)
- Key Laboratory of Systems Bioengineering (Ministry of Education), Tianjin University, Tianjin 300350, China
- Center for Biosafety Research and Strategy, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Kobayashi I, Imamura S, Hirota R, Kuroda A, Tanaka K. Expression of bacterial phosphite dehydrogenase confers phosphite availability in a unicellular red alga Cyanidioschyzon merolae. J GEN APPL MICROBIOL 2024; 69:287-291. [PMID: 37587047 DOI: 10.2323/jgam.2023.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/18/2023]
Abstract
Microalgae are promising cell factories for producing value-added products. Large-scale microalgal cultivation suffers from invasion by contaminating microorganisms. Since most contaminating organisms cannot utilize phosphite as a unique phosphorus source, phosphite-utilizing ability may provide a growth advantage against contaminating organisms and solve this problem. Studies showed that microorganisms, typically unable to metabolize phosphite, can utilize phosphite by expressing exogenous phosphite dehydrogenase. Here, we constructed Cyanidioschyzon merolae strains introduced with the phosphite dehydrogenase gene, ptxD, from Ralstonia sp. 4506. The ptxD-introduced strains grew in a phosphite-dependent manner, with the phosphite-related growth rate almost matching that with phosphate as sole phosphorus source.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ikki Kobayashi
- Laboratory for Chemistry and Life Science, Institute of Innovative Research, Tokyo Institute of Technology
| | - Sousuke Imamura
- Space Environment and Energy Laboratories, Nippon Telegraph and Telephone Corporation
| | - Ryuichi Hirota
- Unit of Biotechnology, Graduate School of Integrated Sciences for Life, Hiroshima University
| | - Akio Kuroda
- Unit of Biotechnology, Graduate School of Integrated Sciences for Life, Hiroshima University
| | - Kan Tanaka
- Laboratory for Chemistry and Life Science, Institute of Innovative Research, Tokyo Institute of Technology
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Gupta A, Kang K, Pathania R, Saxton L, Saucedo B, Malik A, Torres-Tiji Y, Diaz CJ, Dutra Molino JV, Mayfield SP. Harnessing genetic engineering to drive economic bioproduct production in algae. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2024; 12:1350722. [PMID: 38347913 PMCID: PMC10859422 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2024.1350722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 02/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Our reliance on agriculture for sustenance, healthcare, and resources has been essential since the dawn of civilization. However, traditional agricultural practices are no longer adequate to meet the demands of a burgeoning population amidst climate-driven agricultural challenges. Microalgae emerge as a beacon of hope, offering a sustainable and renewable source of food, animal feed, and energy. Their rapid growth rates, adaptability to non-arable land and non-potable water, and diverse bioproduct range, encompassing biofuels and nutraceuticals, position them as a cornerstone of future resource management. Furthermore, microalgae's ability to capture carbon aligns with environmental conservation goals. While microalgae offers significant benefits, obstacles in cost-effective biomass production persist, which curtails broader application. This review examines microalgae compared to other host platforms, highlighting current innovative approaches aimed at overcoming existing barriers. These approaches include a range of techniques, from gene editing, synthetic promoters, and mutagenesis to selective breeding and metabolic engineering through transcription factors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Abhishek Gupta
- Mayfield Laboratory, Department of Molecular Biology, School of Biological Sciences, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, United States
| | - Kalisa Kang
- Mayfield Laboratory, Department of Molecular Biology, School of Biological Sciences, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, United States
| | - Ruchi Pathania
- Mayfield Laboratory, Department of Molecular Biology, School of Biological Sciences, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, United States
| | - Lisa Saxton
- Mayfield Laboratory, Department of Molecular Biology, School of Biological Sciences, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, United States
| | - Barbara Saucedo
- Mayfield Laboratory, Department of Molecular Biology, School of Biological Sciences, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, United States
| | - Ashleyn Malik
- Mayfield Laboratory, Department of Molecular Biology, School of Biological Sciences, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, United States
| | - Yasin Torres-Tiji
- Mayfield Laboratory, Department of Molecular Biology, School of Biological Sciences, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, United States
| | - Crisandra J. Diaz
- Mayfield Laboratory, Department of Molecular Biology, School of Biological Sciences, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, United States
| | - João Vitor Dutra Molino
- Mayfield Laboratory, Department of Molecular Biology, School of Biological Sciences, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, United States
| | - Stephen P. Mayfield
- Mayfield Laboratory, Department of Molecular Biology, School of Biological Sciences, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, United States
- California Center for Algae Biotechnology, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, United States
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Zhao J, Ge Y, Liu K, Yamaoka Y, Zhang D, Chi Z, Akkaya M, Kong F. Overexpression of a MYB1 Transcription Factor Enhances Triacylglycerol and Starch Accumulation and Biomass Production in the Green Microalga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2023; 71:17833-17841. [PMID: 37934701 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.3c05290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2023]
Abstract
Microalgae are promising platforms for biofuel production. Transcription factors (TFs) are emerging as key regulators of lipid metabolism for biofuel production in microalgae. We previously identified a novel TF MYB1, which mediates lipid accumulation in the green microalga Chlamydomonas under nitrogen depletion. However, the function of MYB1 on lipid metabolism in microalgae under standard growth conditions remains poorly understood. Here, we examined the effects of MYB1 overexpression (MYB1-OE) on lipid metabolism and physiological changes in Chlamydomonas. Under standard growth conditions, MYB1-OE transformants accumulated 1.9 to 3.2-fold more triacylglycerols (TAGs) than that in the parental line (PL), and total fatty acids (FAs) also significantly increased. Moreover, saturated FA (C16:0) was enriched in TAGs and total FAs in MYB1-OE transformants. Notably, starch and protein content and biomass production also significantly increased in MYB1-OE transformants compared with that in PL. Furthermore, RT-qPCR results showed that the expressions of key genes involved in TAG, FA, and starch biosynthesis were upregulated. In addition, MYB1-OE transformants showed higher biomass production without a compromised cell growth rate and photosynthetic activity. Overall, our results indicate that MYB1 overexpression not only enhanced lipid content but also improved starch and protein content and biomass production under standard growth conditions. TF MYB1 engineering is a promising genetic engineering tool for biofuel production in microalgae.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jilong Zhao
- School of Bioengineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, China
| | - Yunlong Ge
- School of Bioengineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, China
| | - Keqing Liu
- School of Bioengineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, China
| | - Yasuyo Yamaoka
- Division of Biotechnology, The Catholic University of Korea, Bucheon 14662, Korea
| | - Di Zhang
- School of Bioengineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, China
| | - Zhanyou Chi
- School of Bioengineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, China
| | - Mahinur Akkaya
- School of Bioengineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, China
| | - Fantao Kong
- School of Bioengineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, China
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Sustainable Microalgae and Cyanobacteria Biotechnology. APPLIED SCIENCES-BASEL 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/app12146887] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/10/2022]
Abstract
Marine organisms are a valuable source of new compounds, many of which have remarkable biotechnological properties, such as microalgae and cyanobacteria, which have attracted special attention to develop new industrial production routes. These organisms are a source of many biologically active molecules in nature, including antioxidants, immunostimulants, antivirals, antibiotics, hemagglutinates, polyunsaturated fatty acids, peptides, proteins, biofuels, and pigments. The use of several technologies to improve biomass production, in the first step, industrial processes schemes have been addressed with different accomplishments. It is critical to consider all steps involved in producing a bioactive valuable compound, such as species and strain selection, nutrient supply required to support productivity, type of photobioreactor, downstream processes, namely extraction, recovery, and purification. In general, two product production schemes can be mentioned; one for large amounts of product, such as biodiesel or any other biofuel and the biomass for feeding purposes; the other for when the product will be used in the human health domain, such as antivirals, antibiotics, antioxidants, etc. Several applications for microalgae have been documented. In general, the usefulness of an application for each species of microalgae is determined by growth and product production. Furthermore, the use of OMICS technologies enabled the development of a new design for human therapeutic recombinant proteins, including strain selection based on previous proteomic profiles, gene cloning, and the development of expression networks. Microalgal expression systems have an advantage over traditional microbial, plant, and mammalian expression systems for new and sustainable microalga applications, for responsible production and consumption.
Collapse
|
6
|
Shi M, Yu L, Shi J, Liu J. A conserved MYB transcription factor is involved in regulating lipid metabolic pathways for oil biosynthesis in green algae. THE NEW PHYTOLOGIST 2022; 235:576-594. [PMID: 35342951 DOI: 10.1111/nph.18119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Green algae can accumulate high levels of triacylglycerol (TAG), yet knowledge remains fragmented on the regulation of lipid metabolic pathways by transcription factors (TFs). Here, via bioinformatics and in vitro and in vivo analyses, we revealed the roles of a myeloblastosis (MYB) TF in regulating TAG accumulation in green algae. CzMYB1, an R2R3-MYB from Chromochloris zofingiensis, was transcriptionally upregulated upon TAG-inducing conditions and correlated well with many genes involved in the de novo fatty acid synthesis, fatty acid activation and desaturation, membrane lipid turnover, and TAG assembly. Most promoters of these genes were transactivated by CzMYB1 in the yeast one-hybrid assay and contained the binding elements CNGTTA that were recognized by CzMYB1 through the electrophoretic mobility shift assay. CrMYB1, a close homologue of CzMYB1 from Chlamydomonas reinhardtii that recognized similar elements for binding, also transcriptionally correlated with many lipid metabolic genes. Insertional disruption of CrMYB1 severely suppressed the transcriptional expression of CrMYB1, as well as of key lipogenic genes, and impaired TAG level considerably under stress conditions. Our results reveal that this MYB, conserved in green algae, is involved in regulating global lipid metabolic pathways for TAG biosynthesis and accumulation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Meicheng Shi
- Laboratory for Algae Biotechnology & Innovation, College of Engineering, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Lihua Yu
- Laboratory for Algae Biotechnology & Innovation, College of Engineering, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Jianan Shi
- Laboratory for Algae Biotechnology & Innovation, College of Engineering, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Jin Liu
- Laboratory for Algae Biotechnology & Innovation, College of Engineering, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Choi BY, Shim D, Kong F, Auroy P, Lee Y, Li-Beisson Y, Lee Y, Yamaoka Y. The Chlamydomonas transcription factor MYB1 mediates lipid accumulation under nitrogen depletion. THE NEW PHYTOLOGIST 2022; 235:595-610. [PMID: 35383411 DOI: 10.1111/nph.18141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2022] [Accepted: 03/29/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Microalgae accumulate high levels of oil under stress, but the underlying biosynthetic pathways are not fully understood. We sought to identify key regulators of lipid metabolism under stress conditions. We found that the Chlamydomonas reinhardtii gene encoding the MYB-type transcription factor MYB1 is highly induced under stress conditions. Two myb1 mutants accumulated less total fatty acids and storage lipids than their parental strain upon nitrogen (N) depletion. Transcriptome analysis revealed that genes involved in lipid metabolism are highly enriched in the wild-type but not in the myb1-1 mutant after 4 h of N depletion. Among these genes were several involved in the transport of fatty acids from the chloroplast to the endoplasmic reticulum (ER): acyl-ACP thioesterase (FAT1), Fatty Acid EXporters (FAX1, FAX2), and long-chain acyl-CoA synthetase1 (LACS1). Furthermore, overexpression of FAT1 in the chloroplast increased lipid production. These results suggest that, upon N depletion, MYB1 promotes lipid accumulation by facilitating fatty acid transport from the chloroplast to the ER. This study identifies MYB1 as an important positive regulator of lipid accumulation in C. reinhardtii upon N depletion, adding another player to the established regulators of this process, including NITROGEN RESPONSE REGULATOR 1 (NRR1) and TRIACYLGLYCEROL ACCUMULATION REGULATOR 1 (TAR1).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bae Young Choi
- Department of Life Science, Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH), Pohang, 37673, Korea
| | - Donghwan Shim
- Department of Biological Sciences, Chungnam National University, Daejeon, 34134, Korea
| | - Fantao Kong
- Department of Life Science, Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH), Pohang, 37673, Korea
- School of Bioengineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, 116024, China
| | - Pascaline Auroy
- CEA, CNRS, BIAM, Institut de Biosciences et Biotechnologies Aix-Marseille, Aix Marseille Université, CEA Cadarache, Saint Paul-Lez-Durance, 13108, France
| | - Yuree Lee
- School of Biological Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, Korea
- Research Center for Plant Plasticity, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, Korea
- Plant Genomics and Breeding Institute, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, Korea
| | - Yonghua Li-Beisson
- CEA, CNRS, BIAM, Institut de Biosciences et Biotechnologies Aix-Marseille, Aix Marseille Université, CEA Cadarache, Saint Paul-Lez-Durance, 13108, France
| | - Youngsook Lee
- Department of Life Science, Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH), Pohang, 37673, Korea
| | - Yasuyo Yamaoka
- Division of Biotechnology, The Catholic University of Korea, Bucheon, 420-743, Korea
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Çakirsoy I, Miyamoto T, Ohtake N. Physiology of microalgae and their application to sustainable agriculture: A mini-review. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2022; 13:1005991. [PMID: 36466259 PMCID: PMC9712798 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2022.1005991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
Concern that depletion of fertilizer feedstocks, which are a finite mineral resource, threatens agricultural sustainability has driven the exploration of sustainable methods of soil fertilization. Given that microalgae, which are unicellular photosynthetic organisms, can take up nutrients efficiently from water systems, their application in a biological wastewater purification system followed by the use of their biomass as a fertilizer alternative has attracted attention. Such applications of microalgae would contribute to the accelerated recycling of nutrients from wastewater to farmland. Many previous reports have provided information on the physiological characteristics of microalgae that support their utility. In this review, we focus on recent achievements of studies on microalgal physiology and relevant applications and outline the prospects for the contribution of microalgae to the establishment of sustainable agricultural practices.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Iffet Çakirsoy
- Graduate School of Science and Technology, Niigata University, Niigata, Japan
| | - Takuji Miyamoto
- Sakeology Center, Niigata University, Niigata, Japan
- *Correspondence: Takuji Miyamoto, ; Norikuni Ohtake,
| | - Norikuni Ohtake
- Graduate School of Science and Technology, Niigata University, Niigata, Japan
- *Correspondence: Takuji Miyamoto, ; Norikuni Ohtake,
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Phosphorus Dynamics in the Soil–Plant–Environment Relationship in Cropping Systems: A Review. APPLIED SCIENCES-BASEL 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/app112311133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
This work performs a review of the relevant aspects of agronomic dynamics of phosphorus (P) in the soil–plant relationship as a community (crop ecophysiology), the effect of environmental conditions and global warming on the redistribution and translocation of P in some crop, and the use of good agricultural practices with the aim of improving the efficiency of the element. The research focuses on Northern Europe, North-Eastern Asia, Oceania, North America, and the tropical area of Latin America. This review covers general research and specific works on P found in the literature, 70% of which date from the last 10 years, as well as some older studies that have been of great relevance as references and starting points for more recent investigations. The dynamics of P in a system implies taking into account genetic aspects of the plant, component of the soil–plant–fertilizer–environment relationship, and use of technologies at the molecular level. In addition, in a climate change scenario, the availability of this element can significantly change depending on whether it is labile or non-labile.
Collapse
|
10
|
Thiriet-Rupert S, Gain G, Jadoul A, Vigneron A, Bosman B, Carnol M, Motte P, Cardol P, Nouet C, Hanikenne M. Long-term acclimation to cadmium exposure reveals extensive phenotypic plasticity in Chlamydomonas. PLANT PHYSIOLOGY 2021; 187:1653-1678. [PMID: 34618070 PMCID: PMC8566208 DOI: 10.1093/plphys/kiab375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2021] [Accepted: 07/17/2021] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Increasing industrial and anthropogenic activities are producing and releasing more and more pollutants in the environment. Among them, toxic metals are one of the major threats for human health and natural ecosystems. Because photosynthetic organisms play a critical role in primary productivity and pollution management, investigating their response to metal toxicity is of major interest. Here, the green microalga Chlamydomonas (Chlamydomonas reinhardtii) was subjected to short (3 d) or chronic (6 months) exposure to 50 µM cadmium (Cd), and the recovery from chronic exposure was also examined. An extensive phenotypic characterization and transcriptomic analysis showed that the impact of Cd on biomass production of short-term (ST) exposed cells was almost entirely abolished by long-term (LT) acclimation. The underlying mechanisms were initiated at ST and further amplified after LT exposure resulting in a reversible equilibrium allowing biomass production similar to control condition. This included modification of cell wall-related gene expression and biofilm-like structure formation, dynamics of metal ion uptake and homeostasis, photosynthesis efficiency recovery and Cd acclimation through metal homeostasis adjustment. The contribution of the identified coordination of phosphorus and iron homeostasis (partly) mediated by the main phosphorus homeostasis regulator, Phosphate Starvation Response 1, and a basic Helix-Loop-Helix transcription factor (Cre05.g241636) was further investigated. The study reveals the highly dynamic physiological plasticity enabling algal cell growth in an extreme environment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stanislas Thiriet-Rupert
- InBioS-PhytoSystems, Functional Genomics and Plant Molecular Imaging, University of Liège, 4000 Liège, Belgium
- Present address: Unité de Génétique des Biofilms, Département Microbiologie, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France
| | - Gwenaëlle Gain
- InBioS-PhytoSystems, Functional Genomics and Plant Molecular Imaging, University of Liège, 4000 Liège, Belgium
- InBioS-PhytoSystems, Genetics and Physiology of Microalgae, University of Liège, 4000 Liège, Belgium
| | - Alice Jadoul
- InBioS-PhytoSystems, Functional Genomics and Plant Molecular Imaging, University of Liège, 4000 Liège, Belgium
| | - Amandine Vigneron
- InBioS-PhytoSystems, Functional Genomics and Plant Molecular Imaging, University of Liège, 4000 Liège, Belgium
| | - Bernard Bosman
- InBioS-PhytoSystems, Laboratory of Plant and Microbial Ecology, University of Liège, 4000 Liège, Belgium
| | - Monique Carnol
- InBioS-PhytoSystems, Laboratory of Plant and Microbial Ecology, University of Liège, 4000 Liège, Belgium
| | - Patrick Motte
- InBioS-PhytoSystems, Functional Genomics and Plant Molecular Imaging, University of Liège, 4000 Liège, Belgium
| | - Pierre Cardol
- InBioS-PhytoSystems, Genetics and Physiology of Microalgae, University of Liège, 4000 Liège, Belgium
| | - Cécile Nouet
- InBioS-PhytoSystems, Functional Genomics and Plant Molecular Imaging, University of Liège, 4000 Liège, Belgium
| | - Marc Hanikenne
- InBioS-PhytoSystems, Functional Genomics and Plant Molecular Imaging, University of Liège, 4000 Liège, Belgium
- Author for communication:
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Iwai M, Yamada-Oshima Y, Asami K, Kanamori T, Yuasa H, Shimojima M, Ohta H. Recycling of the major thylakoid lipid MGDG and its role in lipid homeostasis in Chlamydomonas reinhardtii. PLANT PHYSIOLOGY 2021; 187:1341-1356. [PMID: 34618048 PMCID: PMC8566231 DOI: 10.1093/plphys/kiab340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2021] [Accepted: 06/24/2021] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Monogalactosyldiacylglycerol (MGDG), the most abundant lipid in thylakoid membranes, is involved in photosynthesis and chloroplast development. MGDG lipase has an important role in lipid remodeling in Chlamydomonas reinhardtii. However, the process related to turnover of the lysogalactolipid that results from MGDG degradation, monogalactosylmonoacylglycerol (MGMG), remains to be clarified. Here we identified a homolog of Arabidopsis thaliana lysophosphatidylcholine acyltransferase (LPCAT) and characterized two independent knockdown (KD) alleles in C. reinhardtii. The enzyme designated as C. reinhardtiiLysolipid Acyltransferase 1 (CrLAT1) has a conserved membrane-bound O-acyl transferase domain. LPCAT from Arabidopsis has a key role in deacylation of phosphatidylcholine (PC). Chlamydomonas reinhardtii, however, lacks PC, and thus we hypothesized that CrLAT1 has some other important function in major lipid flow in this organism. In the CrLAT1 KD mutants, the amount of MGMG was increased, but triacylglycerols (TAGs) were decreased. The proportion of more saturated 18:1 (9) MGDG was lower in the KD mutants than in their parental strain, CC-4533. In contrast, the proportion of MGMG has decreased in the CrLAT1 overexpression (OE) mutants, and the proportion of 18:1 (9) MGDG was higher in the OE mutants than in the empty vector control cells. Thus, CrLAT1 is involved in the recycling of MGDG in the chloroplast and maintains lipid homeostasis in C. reinhardtii.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Masako Iwai
- School of Life Science and Technology, Tokyo Institute of Technology, Yokohama 226-8501, Japan
| | - Yui Yamada-Oshima
- School of Life Science and Technology, Tokyo Institute of Technology, Yokohama 226-8501, Japan
| | - Kota Asami
- School of Life Science and Technology, Tokyo Institute of Technology, Yokohama 226-8501, Japan
| | - Takashi Kanamori
- School of Life Science and Technology, Tokyo Institute of Technology, Yokohama 226-8501, Japan
| | - Hideya Yuasa
- School of Life Science and Technology, Tokyo Institute of Technology, Yokohama 226-8501, Japan
| | - Mie Shimojima
- School of Life Science and Technology, Tokyo Institute of Technology, Yokohama 226-8501, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Ohta
- School of Life Science and Technology, Tokyo Institute of Technology, Yokohama 226-8501, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Cecchin M, Paloschi M, Busnardo G, Cazzaniga S, Cuine S, Li‐Beisson Y, Wobbe L, Ballottari M. CO 2 supply modulates lipid remodelling, photosynthetic and respiratory activities in Chlorella species. PLANT, CELL & ENVIRONMENT 2021; 44:2987-3001. [PMID: 33931891 PMCID: PMC8453743 DOI: 10.1111/pce.14074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2021] [Revised: 04/20/2021] [Accepted: 04/23/2021] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Microalgae represent a potential solution to reduce CO2 emission exploiting their photosynthetic activity. Here, the physiologic and metabolic responses at the base of CO2 assimilation were investigated in conditions of high or low CO2 availability in two of the most promising algae species for industrial cultivation, Chlorella sorokiniana and Chlorella vulgaris. In both species, high CO2 availability increased biomass accumulation with specific increase of triacylglycerols in C. vulgaris and polar lipids and proteins in C. sorokiniana. Moreover, high CO2 availability caused only in C. vulgaris a reduced NAD(P)H/NADP+ ratio and reduced mitochondrial respiration, suggesting a CO2 dependent increase of reducing power consumption in the chloroplast, which in turn influences the redox state of the mitochondria. Several rearrangements of the photosynthetic machinery were observed in both species, differing from those described for the model organism Chlamydomonas reinhardtii, where adaptation to carbon availability is mainly controlled by the translational repressor NAB1. NAB1 homologous protein could be identified only in C. vulgaris but lacked the regulation mechanisms previously described in C. reinhardtii. Acclimation strategies to cope with a fluctuating inorganic carbon supply are thus diverse among green microalgae, and these results suggest new biotechnological strategies to boost CO2 fixation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michela Cecchin
- Dipartimento di BiotecnologieUniversità di VeronaVeronaItaly
| | - Matteo Paloschi
- Dipartimento di BiotecnologieUniversità di VeronaVeronaItaly
| | | | | | - Stephan Cuine
- Aix‐Marseille Univ., CEA, CNRSInstitute of Biosciences and Biotechnologies of Aix‐Marseille, UMR7265, CEA CadaracheSaint‐Paul‐lez DuranceFrance
| | - Yonghua Li‐Beisson
- Aix‐Marseille Univ., CEA, CNRSInstitute of Biosciences and Biotechnologies of Aix‐Marseille, UMR7265, CEA CadaracheSaint‐Paul‐lez DuranceFrance
| | - Lutz Wobbe
- Bielefeld UniversityCenter for Biotechnology (CeBiTec), Faculty of BiologyBielefeldGermany
| | | |
Collapse
|
13
|
Huang G, Kawabe Y, Shirakawa K, Akiyama T, Kamihira M. Novel transgenic Chlamydomonas reinhardtii strain with retargetable genomic transgene integration using Cre-loxP system. J Biosci Bioeng 2021; 132:469-478. [PMID: 34420898 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiosc.2021.07.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2021] [Revised: 07/18/2021] [Accepted: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The use of Chlamydomonas for biofuel and biopharmaceutical production has been anticipated. However, the genetic engineering technology for Chlamydomonas is not as advanced as that for other organisms. Here, we established transgenic Chlamydomonas strains capable of high and stable transgene expression. The established cells exhibited stable reporter gene expression at a high level throughout long-term culture (∼60 days), even in the absence of drug pressure. The transgene insertion sites in the cell genome that may be suitable for exogenous gene expression were identified. Because the transgene contains a loxP site, the cells can be used as founders for retargeting other transgenes using the Cre-loxP system to generate transgenic Chlamydomonas producing useful substances. As a model biopharmaceutical gene, an interferon expression cassette was integrated into the genomic locus of the cells using Cre recombinase. The transgenic cells stably produced interferon protein in medium for 12 passages under non-selective conditions. These results indicate that the Chlamydomonas cells established in this study can serve as valuable and powerful tools not only for basic research on microalgae but also for the rapid establishment of cell lines expressing exogenous genes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Guan Huang
- Graduate School of Systems Life Sciences, Kyushu University, 744 Motooka, Nishi-ku, Fukuoka 819-0395, Japan
| | - Yoshinori Kawabe
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Kyushu University, 744 Motooka, Nishi-ku, Fukuoka 819-0395, Japan
| | - Kazuki Shirakawa
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Kyushu University, 744 Motooka, Nishi-ku, Fukuoka 819-0395, Japan
| | - Tatsuki Akiyama
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Kyushu University, 744 Motooka, Nishi-ku, Fukuoka 819-0395, Japan
| | - Masamichi Kamihira
- Graduate School of Systems Life Sciences, Kyushu University, 744 Motooka, Nishi-ku, Fukuoka 819-0395, Japan; Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Kyushu University, 744 Motooka, Nishi-ku, Fukuoka 819-0395, Japan.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Mochdia K, Tamaki S. Transcription Factor-Based Genetic Engineering in Microalgae. PLANTS 2021; 10:plants10081602. [PMID: 34451646 PMCID: PMC8399792 DOI: 10.3390/plants10081602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2021] [Revised: 07/16/2021] [Accepted: 07/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Sequence-specific DNA-binding transcription factors (TFs) are key components of gene regulatory networks. Advances in high-throughput sequencing have facilitated the rapid acquisition of whole genome assembly and TF repertoires in microalgal species. In this review, we summarize recent advances in gene discovery and functional analyses, especially for transcription factors in microalgal species. Specifically, we provide examples of the genome-scale identification of transcription factors in genome-sequenced microalgal species and showcase their application in the discovery of regulators involved in various cellular functions. Herein, we highlight TF-based genetic engineering as a promising framework for designing microalgal strains for microalgal-based bioproduction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Keiichi Mochdia
- RIKEN Center for Sustainable Resource Science, Tsurumi-ku, Yokohama 230-0045, Japan
- Kihara Institute for Biological Research, Yokohama City University, Totsuka-ku, Yokohama 244-0813, Japan
- RIKEN Baton Zone Program, Tsurumi-ku, Yokohama 230-0045, Japan;
- School of Information and Data Sciences, Nagasaki University, Bunkyo-machi, Nagasaki 852-8521, Japan
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +81-045-503-9111
| | - Shun Tamaki
- RIKEN Baton Zone Program, Tsurumi-ku, Yokohama 230-0045, Japan;
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Grinko A, Alqoubaili R, Lapina T, Ermilova E. Truncated hemoglobin 2 modulates phosphorus deficiency response by controlling of gene expression in nitric oxide-dependent pathway in Chlamydomonas reinhardtii. PLANTA 2021; 254:39. [PMID: 34319485 DOI: 10.1007/s00425-021-03691-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2021] [Accepted: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Truncated hemoglobin 2 is involved in fine-tuning of PSR1-regulated gene expression during phosphorus deprivation. Truncated hemoglobins form a large family found in all domains of life. However, a majority of physiological functions of these proteins remain to be elucidated. In the model alga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii, macro-nutritional deprivation is known to elevate truncated hemoglobin 2 (THB2). This study investigated the role of THB2 in the regulation of a subset of phosphorus (P) limitation-responsive genes in cells suffering from P-deficiency. Underexpression of THB2 in amiTHB2 strains resulted in downregulation of a suite of P deprivation-induced genes encoding proteins with different subcellular location and functions (e.g., PHOX, LHCSR3.1, LHCSR3.2, PTB2, and PTB5). Moreover, our results provided primary evidence that the soluble guanylate cyclase 12 gene (CYG12) is a component of the P deprivation regulation. Furthermore, the transcription of PSR1 gene for the most critical regulator in the acclimation process under P restriction was repressed by nitric oxide (NO). Collectively, the results indicated a tight regulatory link between the THB2-controlled NO levels and PSR1-dependent induction of several P deprivation responsive genes with various roles in cells during P-limitation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Grinko
- Biological Faculty, Saint-Petersburg State University, Saint-Petersburg, 199034, Russia
| | - Reem Alqoubaili
- Biological Faculty, Saint-Petersburg State University, Saint-Petersburg, 199034, Russia
| | - Tatiana Lapina
- Biological Faculty, Saint-Petersburg State University, Saint-Petersburg, 199034, Russia
| | - Elena Ermilova
- Biological Faculty, Saint-Petersburg State University, Saint-Petersburg, 199034, Russia.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Murakami H, Kakutani N, Kuroyanagi Y, Iwai M, Hori K, Shimojima M, Ohta H. MYB-like transcription factor NoPSR1 is crucial for membrane lipid remodeling under phosphate starvation in the oleaginous microalga Nannochloropsis oceanica. FEBS Lett 2020; 594:3384-3394. [PMID: 32770739 DOI: 10.1002/1873-3468.13902] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2020] [Revised: 08/03/2020] [Accepted: 08/03/2020] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Membrane lipid remodeling under phosphate (Pi) limitation, a process that replaces structural membrane phospholipids with nonphosphorus lipids, is a widely observed adaptive response in plants and algae. Here, we identified the transcription factor phosphorus starvation response 1 (NoPSR1) as an indispensable player for regulating membrane lipid conversion during Pi starvation in the microalga Nannochloropsis oceanica. Knocking out NoPSR1 scarcely perturbed membrane lipid composition under Pi-sufficient conditions but significantly impaired dynamic alteration in membrane lipids during Pi starvation. In contrast, the absence of NoPSR1 led to no obvious change in cell proliferation or storage lipid accumulation under either nutrient-sufficient or Pi-deficient conditions. Our results demonstrate a key factor controlling the membrane lipid profile during the Pi starvation response in N. oceanica.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hiroki Murakami
- School of Life Science and Technology, Tokyo Institute of Technology, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Natsue Kakutani
- School of Life Science and Technology, Tokyo Institute of Technology, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Yunato Kuroyanagi
- School of Life Science and Technology, Tokyo Institute of Technology, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Masako Iwai
- School of Life Science and Technology, Tokyo Institute of Technology, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Koichi Hori
- School of Life Science and Technology, Tokyo Institute of Technology, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Mie Shimojima
- School of Life Science and Technology, Tokyo Institute of Technology, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Ohta
- School of Life Science and Technology, Tokyo Institute of Technology, Yokohama, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Shi TQ, Wang LR, Zhang ZX, Sun XM, Huang H. Stresses as First-Line Tools for Enhancing Lipid and Carotenoid Production in Microalgae. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2020; 8:610. [PMID: 32850686 PMCID: PMC7396513 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2020.00610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2020] [Accepted: 05/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Microalgae can produce high-value-added products such as lipids and carotenoids using light or sugars, and their biosynthesis mechanism can be triggered by various stress conditions. Under nutrient deprivation or environmental stresses, microalgal cells accumulate lipids as an energy-rich carbon storage battery and generate additional amounts of carotenoids to alleviate the oxidative damage induced by stress conditions. Though stressful conditions are unfavorable for biomass accumulation and can induce oxidative damage, stress-based strategies are widely used in this field due to their effectiveness and economy. For the overproduction of different target products, it is required and meaningful to deeply understand the effects and mechanisms of various stress conditions so as to provide guidance on choosing the appropriate stress conditions. Moreover, the underlying molecular mechanisms under stress conditions can be clarified by omics technologies, which exhibit enormous potential in guiding rational genetic engineering for improving lipid and carotenoid biosynthesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tian-Qiong Shi
- School of Food Science and Pharmaceutical Engineering, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing, China
| | - Ling-Ru Wang
- School of Food Science and Pharmaceutical Engineering, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing, China
| | - Zi-Xu Zhang
- School of Food Science and Pharmaceutical Engineering, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiao-Man Sun
- School of Food Science and Pharmaceutical Engineering, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing, China
| | - He Huang
- School of Food Science and Pharmaceutical Engineering, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing, China
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Slocombe SP, Zúñiga-Burgos T, Chu L, Wood NJ, Camargo-Valero MA, Baker A. Fixing the Broken Phosphorus Cycle: Wastewater Remediation by Microalgal Polyphosphates. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2020; 11:982. [PMID: 32695134 PMCID: PMC7339613 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2020.00982] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2020] [Accepted: 06/16/2020] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Phosphorus (P), in the form of phosphate derived from either inorganic (Pi) or organic (Po) forms is an essential macronutrient for all life. P undergoes a biogeochemical cycle within the environment, but anthropogenic redistribution through inefficient agricultural practice and inadequate nutrient recovery at wastewater treatment works have resulted in a sustained transfer of P from rock deposits to land and aquatic environments. Our present and near future supply of P is primarily mined from rock P reserves in a limited number of geographical regions. To help ensure that this resource is adequate for humanity's food security, an energy-efficient means of recovering P from waste and recycling it for agriculture is required. This will also help to address excess discharge to water bodies and the resulting eutrophication. Microalgae possess the advantage of polymeric inorganic polyphosphate (PolyP) storage which can potentially operate simultaneously with remediation of waste nitrogen and phosphorus streams and flue gases (CO2, SOx, and NOx). Having high productivity in photoautotrophic, mixotrophic or heterotrophic growth modes, they can be harnessed in wastewater remediation strategies for biofuel production either directly (biodiesel) or in conjunction with anaerobic digestion (biogas) or dark fermentation (biohydrogen). Regulation of algal P uptake, storage, and mobilization is intertwined with the cellular status of other macronutrients (e.g., nitrogen and sulphur) in addition to the manufacture of other storage products (e.g., carbohydrate and lipids) or macromolecules (e.g., cell wall). A greater understanding of controlling factors in this complex interaction is required to facilitate and improve P control, recovery, and reuse from waste streams. The best understood algal genetic model is Chlamydomonas reinhardtii in terms of utility and shared resources. It also displays mixotrophic growth and advantageously, species of this genus are often found growing in wastewater treatment plants. In this review, we focus primarily on the molecular and genetic aspects of PolyP production or turnover and place this knowledge in the context of wastewater remediation and highlight developments and challenges in this field.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stephen P. Slocombe
- Centre for Plant Sciences and Astbury Centre for Structural Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, School of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Tatiana Zúñiga-Burgos
- Centre for Plant Sciences and Astbury Centre for Structural Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, School of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom
- BioResource Systems Research Group, School of Civil Engineering, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Lili Chu
- Centre for Plant Sciences and Astbury Centre for Structural Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, School of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Nicola J. Wood
- Centre for Plant Sciences and Astbury Centre for Structural Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, School of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom
- Centre for Doctoral Training in Bioenergy, School of Chemical and Process Engineering, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Miller Alonso Camargo-Valero
- BioResource Systems Research Group, School of Civil Engineering, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom
- Departamento de Ingeniería Química, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Manizales, Colombia
| | - Alison Baker
- Centre for Plant Sciences and Astbury Centre for Structural Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, School of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|