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Tanaka K, Lan JCW, Kondo A, Hasunuma T. Metabolic engineering and cultivation strategies for efficient production of fucoxanthin and related carotenoids. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2025; 109:57. [PMID: 40035874 PMCID: PMC11880063 DOI: 10.1007/s00253-025-13441-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2024] [Revised: 02/12/2025] [Accepted: 02/18/2025] [Indexed: 03/06/2025]
Abstract
Fucoxanthin, a bioactive carotenoid derived from algae, has attracted considerable attention for its applications in health, cosmetics, and nutrition. Advances in metabolic engineering, such as the overexpression of pathway-specific enzymes and enhancement of precursor availability, have shown promising results in improving production efficiency. However, despite its high value, the biosynthetic pathway of fucoxanthin remains only partially elucidated, posing significant challenges for metabolic engineering efforts. Recent studies have identified previously unknown enzymes and regulatory elements within the pathway, providing opportunities for further productivity enhancements through targeted metabolic modifications. Additionally, adaptive evolution, mutagenesis-driven strain development, and optimized cultivation conditions have demonstrated significant potential to boost fucoxanthin yields. This review consolidates the latest insights into the biosynthetic pathway of fucoxanthin and highlights metabolic engineering strategies aimed at enhancing the production of fucoxanthin and related carotenoids, offering approaches to design high-yielding strains. Furthermore, recent advancements in random mutagenesis and cultivation technology are discussed. By integrating these developments, more economically viable and environmentally sustainable fucoxanthin production systems can be achieved. KEY POINTS : • Insights into fucoxanthin biosynthesis enable targeted metabolic engineering. • ALE and cultivation strategies complement metabolic engineering efforts. • Balanced push-pull-block strategies improve fucoxanthin production efficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenya Tanaka
- Engineering Biology Research Center, Kobe University, 1-1 Rokkodai, Nada, Kobe, 657-8501, Japan
- Graduate School of Science, Innovation and Technology, Kobe University, 1-1 Rokkodai, Nada, Kobe, 657-8501, Japan
- Research Center for Solar Energy Chemistry, Graduate School of Engineering Science, Osaka University, Toyonaka, Osaka, 560-8531, Japan
| | - John Chi-Wei Lan
- Biorefinery and Bioprocessing Engineering Laboratory, Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, Yuan Ze University, Chungli, Taoyuan, 320, Taiwan
- Graduate School of Biotechnology and Bioengineering, Yuan Ze University, Chungli, Taoyuan, 320, Taiwan
| | - Akihiko Kondo
- Engineering Biology Research Center, Kobe University, 1-1 Rokkodai, Nada, Kobe, 657-8501, Japan
- Graduate School of Science, Innovation and Technology, Kobe University, 1-1 Rokkodai, Nada, Kobe, 657-8501, Japan
- RIKEN Center for Sustainable Resource Science, 1-7-22 Suehiro, Tsurumi, Yokohama, Kanagawa, 230-0045, Japan
- Department of Chemical Science and Engineering, Graduate School of Engineering, Kobe University, 1-1 Rokkodai, Nada, Kobe, 657-8501, Japan
| | - Tomohisa Hasunuma
- Engineering Biology Research Center, Kobe University, 1-1 Rokkodai, Nada, Kobe, 657-8501, Japan.
- Graduate School of Science, Innovation and Technology, Kobe University, 1-1 Rokkodai, Nada, Kobe, 657-8501, Japan.
- Graduate School of Biotechnology and Bioengineering, Yuan Ze University, Chungli, Taoyuan, 320, Taiwan.
- RIKEN Center for Sustainable Resource Science, 1-7-22 Suehiro, Tsurumi, Yokohama, Kanagawa, 230-0045, Japan.
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Takaichi S. Distribution, Biosynthesis, and Function of Carotenoids in Oxygenic Phototrophic Algae. Mar Drugs 2025; 23:62. [PMID: 39997186 PMCID: PMC11857680 DOI: 10.3390/md23020062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2024] [Revised: 01/23/2025] [Accepted: 01/26/2025] [Indexed: 02/26/2025] Open
Abstract
For photosynthesis, oxygenic phototrophic organisms necessarily contain not only chlorophylls but also carotenoids. Various carotenoids have been identified in algae and taxonomic studies of algae have been conducted. In this review, the relationship between the distribution of chlorophylls and carotenoids and the phylogeny of sea and freshwater oxygenic phototrophs, including cyanobacteria, red algae, brown algae, and green algae, is summarized. These phototrophs contain division- or class-specific chlorophylls and carotenoids, such as fucoxanthin, peridinin, diadinoxanthin, and siphonaxanthin. The distribution of β-carotene and its derivatives, including β-carotene, zeaxanthin, violaxanthin, neoxanthin, diadinoxanthin, fucoxanthin, and peridinin (β-branch carotenoids), are limited to divisions of a part of Rhodophyta, Cryptophyta, Heterokontophyta, Haptophyta, and Dinophyta. Meanwhile, the distribution of α-carotene and its derivatives, such as lutein, loroxanthin, and siphonaxanthin (α-branch carotenoids), are limited to divisions of a part of Rhodophyta (macrophytic type), Cryptophyta, Euglenophyta, Chlorarachniophyta, and Chlorophyta. In addition, carotenogenesis pathways are also discussed based on the chemical structures of carotenoids and the known characteristics of carotenogenesis enzymes in other organisms. The specific genes and enzymes for carotenogenesis in algae are not yet known. Most carotenoids bind to membrane-bound pigment-protein complexes, such as reaction centers and light-harvesting complexes. Some carotenoids function in photosynthesis and are briefly summarized. Water-soluble peridinin-chlorophyll a-protein (PCP) and orange carotenoid protein (OCP) have also been characterized. This review is a summary and update from the previous review on the distribution of major carotenoids, primary carotenogenesis pathways, and the characteristics of carotenogenesis enzymes and genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shinichi Takaichi
- Department of Molecular Microbiology, Faculty of Life Sciences, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Sakuragaoka, Setagaya, Tokyo 156-8502, Japan
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3
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Ware MA, Paton AJ, Bai Y, Kassaw T, Lohr M, Peers G. Identifying the gene responsible for non-photochemical quenching reversal in Phaeodactylum tricornutum. THE PLANT JOURNAL : FOR CELL AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2024; 120:2113-2126. [PMID: 39476224 PMCID: PMC11629738 DOI: 10.1111/tpj.17104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2024] [Revised: 10/10/2024] [Accepted: 10/14/2024] [Indexed: 12/11/2024]
Abstract
Algae such as diatoms and haptophytes have distinct photosynthetic pigments from plants, including a novel set of carotenoids. This includes a primary xanthophyll cycle comprised of diadinoxanthin and its de-epoxidation product diatoxanthin that enables the switch between light harvesting and non-photochemical quenching (NPQ)-mediated dissipation of light energy. The enzyme responsible for the reversal of this cycle was previously unknown. Here, we identified zeaxanthin epoxidase 3 (ZEP3) from Phaeodactylum tricornutum as the candidate diatoxanthin epoxidase. Knocking out the ZEP3 gene caused a loss of rapidly reversible NPQ following saturating light exposure. This correlated with the maintenance of high concentrations of diatoxanthin during recovery in low light. Xanthophyll cycling and NPQ relaxation were restored via complementation of the wild-type ZEP3 gene. The zep3 knockout strains showed reduced photosynthetic rates at higher light fluxes and reduced specific growth rate in variable light regimes, likely due to the mutant strains becoming locked in a light energy dissipation state. We were able to toggle the level of NPQ capacity in a time and dose dependent manner by placing the ZEP3 gene under the control of a β-estradiol inducible promoter. Identification of this gene provides a deeper understanding of the diversification of photosynthetic control in algae compared to plants and suggests a potential target to improve the productivity of industrial-scale cultures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maxwell A. Ware
- Department of BiologyColorado State UniversityFort CollinsColorado80523USA
- Fachbereich PhysikFreie Universität BerlinBerlin14195Germany
| | - Andrew J. Paton
- Department of BiologyColorado State UniversityFort CollinsColorado80523USA
| | - Yu Bai
- Department of BiologyColorado State UniversityFort CollinsColorado80523USA
| | - Tessema Kassaw
- Department of BiologyColorado State UniversityFort CollinsColorado80523USA
| | - Martin Lohr
- Institut für Molekulare PhysiologieJohannes Gutenberg‐UniversityMainz55099Germany
| | - Graham Peers
- Department of BiologyColorado State UniversityFort CollinsColorado80523USA
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4
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Canini D, Ceschi E, Perozeni F. Toward the Exploitation of Sustainable Green Factory: Biotechnology Use of Nannochloropsis spp. BIOLOGY 2024; 13:292. [PMID: 38785776 PMCID: PMC11117969 DOI: 10.3390/biology13050292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2024] [Revised: 04/19/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
Securing food, energy, and raw materials for a growing population is one of the most significant challenges of our century. Algae play a central role as an alternative to plants. Wastewater and flue gas can secure nutrients and CO2 for carbon fixation. Unfortunately, algae domestication is necessary to enhance biomass production and reduce cultivation costs. Nannochloropsis spp. have increased in popularity among microalgae due to their ability to accumulate high amounts of lipids, including PUFAs. Recently, the interest in the use of Nannochloropsis spp. as a green bio-factory for producing high-value products increased proportionally to the advances of synthetic biology and genetic tools in these species. In this review, we summarized the state of the art of current nuclear genetic manipulation techniques and a few examples of their application. The industrial use of Nannochloropsis spp. has not been feasible yet, but genetic tools can finally lead to exploiting this full-of-potential microalga.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Federico Perozeni
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Verona, 37134 Verona, Italy; (D.C.); (E.C.)
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Græsholt C, Brembu T, Volpe C, Bartosova Z, Serif M, Winge P, Nymark M. Zeaxanthin epoxidase 3 Knockout Mutants of the Model Diatom Phaeodactylum tricornutum Enable Commercial Production of the Bioactive Carotenoid Diatoxanthin. Mar Drugs 2024; 22:185. [PMID: 38667802 PMCID: PMC11051370 DOI: 10.3390/md22040185] [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: 03/29/2024] [Revised: 04/14/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Carotenoids are pigments that have a range of functions in human health. The carotenoid diatoxanthin is suggested to have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and chemo-preventive properties. Diatoxanthin is only produced by a few groups of microalgae, where it functions in photoprotection. Its large-scale production in microalgae is currently not feasible. In fact, rapid conversion into the inactive pigment diadinoxanthin is triggered when cells are removed from a high-intensity light source, which is the case during large-scale harvesting of microalgae biomass. Zeaxanthin epoxidase (ZEP) 2 and/or ZEP3 have been suggested to be responsible for the back-conversion of high-light accumulated diatoxanthin to diadinoxanthin in low-light in diatoms. Using CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing technology, we knocked out the ZEP2 and ZEP3 genes in the marine diatom Phaeodactylum tricornutum to investigate their role in the diadinoxanthin-diatoxanthin cycle and determine if one of the mutant strains could function as a diatoxanthin production line. Light-shift experiments proved that ZEP3 encodes the enzyme converting diatoxanthin to diadinoxanthin in low light. Loss of ZEP3 caused the high-light-accumulated diatoxanthin to be stable for several hours after the cultures had been returned to low light, suggesting that zep3 mutant strains could be suitable as commercial production lines of diatoxanthin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cecilie Græsholt
- Department of Biology, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, 7491 Trondheim, Norway (T.B.); (Z.B.); (M.S.); (P.W.)
| | - Tore Brembu
- Department of Biology, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, 7491 Trondheim, Norway (T.B.); (Z.B.); (M.S.); (P.W.)
| | - Charlotte Volpe
- Department of Fisheries and New Biomarine Industry, SINTEF Ocean, 7010 Trondheim, Norway;
| | - Zdenka Bartosova
- Department of Biology, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, 7491 Trondheim, Norway (T.B.); (Z.B.); (M.S.); (P.W.)
| | - Manuel Serif
- Department of Biology, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, 7491 Trondheim, Norway (T.B.); (Z.B.); (M.S.); (P.W.)
| | - Per Winge
- Department of Biology, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, 7491 Trondheim, Norway (T.B.); (Z.B.); (M.S.); (P.W.)
| | - Marianne Nymark
- Department of Biology, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, 7491 Trondheim, Norway (T.B.); (Z.B.); (M.S.); (P.W.)
- Department of Fisheries and New Biomarine Industry, SINTEF Ocean, 7010 Trondheim, Norway;
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Li C, Pan Y, Yin W, Liu J, Hu H. A key gene, violaxanthin de-epoxidase-like 1, enhances fucoxanthin accumulation in Phaeodactylum tricornutum. BIOTECHNOLOGY FOR BIOFUELS AND BIOPRODUCTS 2024; 17:49. [PMID: 38566219 PMCID: PMC10986045 DOI: 10.1186/s13068-024-02496-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Fucoxanthin has been widely investigated owing to its beneficial biological properties, and the model diatom Phaeodactylum tricornutum, possessing fucoxanthin (Fux) chlorophyll proteins as light-harvesting systems, is considered to have the potential to become a commercial cell factory for the pigment production. RESULTS Here, we compared the pigment contents in 10 different P. tricornutum strains from the globe, and found that strain CCMP631 (Pt6) exhibited the highest Fux content but with a low biomass. Comparison of mRNA levels revealed that higher Fux content in Pt6 was related with the higher expression of gene violaxanthin de-epoxidase-like (VDL) protein 1 (VDL1), which encodes the enzyme catalyzing the tautomerization of violaxanthin to neoxanthin in Fux biosynthesis pathway. Single nucleotide variants of VDL1 gene and allele-specific expression in strains Pt1 (the whole genome sequenced strain CCMP632) and Pt6 were analyzed, and overexpressing of each of the 4 VDL1 alleles, two from Pt1 and two from Pt6, in strain Pt1 leads to an increase in downstream product diadinoxanthin and channels the pigments towards Fux biosynthesis. All the 8 VDL1 overexpression (OE) lines showed significant increases by 8.2 to 41.7% in Fux content without compromising growth, and VDL1 Allele 2 OE lines even exhibited the higher cell density on day 8, with an increase by 24.2-28.7% in two Pt1VDL1-allele 2 OE lines and 7.1-11.1% in two Pt6VDL1-allele 2 OE lines, respectively. CONCLUSIONS The results reveal VDL1, localized in the plastid stroma, plays a key role in Fux over-accumulation in P. tricornutum. Overexpressing VDL1, especially allele 2, improved both the Fux content and growth rate, which provides a new strategy for the manipulation of Fux production in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenjie Li
- Key Laboratory of Algal Biology, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, 430072, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Yufang Pan
- Key Laboratory of Algal Biology, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, 430072, China
| | - Wenxiu Yin
- Key Laboratory of Algal Biology, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, 430072, China
| | - Jin Liu
- Key Laboratory of Poyang Lake Environment and Resource Utilization, Ministry of Education, and Center for Algae Innovation & Engineering Research, School of Resources and Environment, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330031, China
| | - Hanhua Hu
- Key Laboratory of Algal Biology, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, 430072, China.
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7
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Zhang F, Li Y, Miao X. Quantum dot-based light conversion strategy for customized cultivation of microalgae. BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY 2024; 397:130489. [PMID: 38403170 DOI: 10.1016/j.biortech.2024.130489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2023] [Revised: 02/19/2024] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/27/2024]
Abstract
Microalgae are photosynthetic microorganisms with the potential to mitigate the atmospheric greenhouse effect by carbon fixation. However, their growth is typically limited by light availability. A wavelength converter utilizing red, blue, and green quantum dots (QDs) was developed to optimize light quality for enhancing microalgal production. The growth, lipid content, and eicosapentaenoic acid titer of Nannochloropsis increased by 11.2%, 9.5%, and 15.5% with red QDs, respectively. The biomass and triacylglycerol content of Phaeodactylum tricornutum increased by 8.6% and 35.0%, respectively. Simultaneously, biodiesel production was accelerated in Nannochloropsis (20.2%) and P. tricornutum (11.6%), and improved with increased cetane number and reduced iodine value. Furthermore, red QDs increased the growth and biomass accumulation of Nannochloropsis under low light, while green QDs shielded Nannochloropsis from photoinhibition under high light. This customizable QD-based methodology overcomes microalgal light limitations, demonstrating a universally applicable approach to improve microalgal cultivation and biochemical component production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Metabolism, School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Metabolic & Developmental Sciences, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China; Biomass Energy Research Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Yulu Li
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Metabolism, School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Metabolic & Developmental Sciences, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China; Biomass Energy Research Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Xiaoling Miao
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Metabolism, School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Metabolic & Developmental Sciences, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China; Biomass Energy Research Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China.
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8
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Jinkerson RE, Poveda-Huertes D, Cooney EC, Cho A, Ochoa-Fernandez R, Keeling PJ, Xiang T, Andersen-Ranberg J. Biosynthesis of chlorophyll c in a dinoflagellate and heterologous production in planta. Curr Biol 2024; 34:594-605.e4. [PMID: 38157859 DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2023.12.068] [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] [Received: 11/10/2023] [Revised: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
Chlorophyll c is a key photosynthetic pigment that has been used historically to classify eukaryotic algae. Despite its importance in global photosynthetic productivity, the pathway for its biosynthesis has remained elusive. Here we define the CHLOROPHYLL C SYNTHASE (CHLCS) discovered through investigation of a dinoflagellate mutant deficient in chlorophyll c. CHLCSs are proteins with chlorophyll a/b binding and 2-oxoglutarate-Fe(II) dioxygenase (2OGD) domains found in peridinin-containing dinoflagellates; other chlorophyll c-containing algae utilize enzymes with only the 2OGD domain or an unknown synthase to produce chlorophyll c. 2OGD-containing synthases across dinoflagellate, diatom, cryptophyte, and haptophyte lineages form a monophyletic group, 8 members of which were also shown to produce chlorophyll c. Chlorophyll c1 to c2 ratios in marine algae are dictated in part by chlorophyll c synthases. CHLCS heterologously expressed in planta results in the accumulation of chlorophyll c1 and c2, demonstrating a path to augment plant pigment composition with algal counterparts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert E Jinkerson
- Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, CA 92521, USA; Center for Plant Cell Biology, Department of Botany and Plant Sciences, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, CA 92521, USA.
| | - Daniel Poveda-Huertes
- Department of Plant and Environmental Science, University of Copenhagen, 1871 Frederiksberg C, Denmark
| | - Elizabeth C Cooney
- Department of Botany, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Anna Cho
- Department of Botany, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Rocio Ochoa-Fernandez
- Department of Plant and Environmental Science, University of Copenhagen, 1871 Frederiksberg C, Denmark
| | - Patrick J Keeling
- Department of Botany, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Tingting Xiang
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, CA 92521, USA.
| | - Johan Andersen-Ranberg
- Department of Plant and Environmental Science, University of Copenhagen, 1871 Frederiksberg C, Denmark
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9
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Seo S, Chang KS, Choi MS, Jin E. Overexpression of PtVDL1 in Phaeodactylum tricornutum Increases Fucoxanthin Content under Red Light. J Microbiol Biotechnol 2024; 34:198-206. [PMID: 37957112 PMCID: PMC10840463 DOI: 10.4014/jmb.2309.09018] [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] [Received: 09/14/2023] [Revised: 10/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
Phaeodactylum tricornutum is a model diatom with significant biotechnological applications, including enhancing biomass, biofuel, and carotenoid production. Specifically, owing to the capacity of this organism to serve as a valuable source of essential raw materials for pharmaceuticals and nutraceuticals, ongoing research is actively focused on enhancing its productivity. One of the genes involved in various stages of fucoxanthin (Fx) biosynthesis, violaxanthin de-epoxidase like 1 (VDL1), has recently been identified. To validate the intracellular function of this gene and boost Fx production through overexpression, we established and examined three transgenic P. tricornutum lines characterized by elevated P. tricortunum VDL1 ( PtVDL1) expression and evaluate their cell growth and Fx productivity. These transgenic lines exhibited substantially increased PtVDL1 mRNA and protein levels compared to the wild type (WT). Notably, the enzyme substrate violaxanthin was entirely depleted and could not be detected in the transformants, whereas it remained at constant levels in the WT. Interestingly, under standard white light conditions, Fx productivity in the transformants remained unchanged; however, but after 48 h of exposure to red light, it increased by up to 15%. These results indicate that PtVDL1-overexpressing P. tricornutum has industrial potential, particularly for enhancing Fx production under red light conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seungbeom Seo
- Department of Life Science, Research Institute for Natural Sciences, Hanyang University, Seoul 04763, Republic of Korea
| | - Kwang Suk Chang
- Department of Life Science, Research Institute for Natural Sciences, Hanyang University, Seoul 04763, Republic of Korea
| | - Min Sun Choi
- Korea Radio-Isotope Center for Pharmaceuticals, Korea Institute of Radiological and Medical Sciences, Seoul 01812, Republic of Korea
| | - EonSeon Jin
- Department of Life Science, Research Institute for Natural Sciences, Hanyang University, Seoul 04763, Republic of Korea
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10
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Ye Y, Liu M, Yu L, Sun H, Liu J. Nannochloropsis as an Emerging Algal Chassis for Light-Driven Synthesis of Lipids and High-Value Products. Mar Drugs 2024; 22:54. [PMID: 38393025 PMCID: PMC10890015 DOI: 10.3390/md22020054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2023] [Revised: 01/14/2024] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
In light of the escalating global energy crisis, microalgae have emerged as highly promising producers of biofuel and high-value products. Among these microalgae, Nannochloropsis has received significant attention due to its capacity to generate not only triacylglycerol (TAG) but also eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and valuable carotenoids. Recent advancements in genetic tools and the field of synthetic biology have revolutionized Nannochloropsis into a powerful biofactory. This comprehensive review provides an initial overview of the current state of cultivation and utilization of the Nannochloropsis genus. Subsequently, our review examines the metabolic pathways governing lipids and carotenoids, emphasizing strategies to enhance oil production and optimize carbon flux redirection toward target products. Additionally, we summarize the utilization of advanced genetic manipulation techniques in Nannochloropsis. Together, the insights presented in this review highlight the immense potential of Nannochloropsis as a valuable model for biofuels and synthetic biology. By effectively integrating genetic tools and metabolic engineering, the realization of this potential becomes increasingly feasible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Ye
- Laboratory for Algae Biotechnology & Innovation, College of Engineering, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China; (Y.Y.); (M.L.); (L.Y.)
| | - Meijing Liu
- Laboratory for Algae Biotechnology & Innovation, College of Engineering, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China; (Y.Y.); (M.L.); (L.Y.)
- Key Laboratory of Poyang Lake Environment and Resource Utilization, Ministry of Education, Center for Algae Innovation & Engineering Research, School of Resources and Environment, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330031, China
| | - Lihua Yu
- Laboratory for Algae Biotechnology & Innovation, College of Engineering, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China; (Y.Y.); (M.L.); (L.Y.)
| | - Han Sun
- Institute for Advanced Study, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China
| | - Jin Liu
- Laboratory for Algae Biotechnology & Innovation, College of Engineering, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China; (Y.Y.); (M.L.); (L.Y.)
- Key Laboratory of Poyang Lake Environment and Resource Utilization, Ministry of Education, Center for Algae Innovation & Engineering Research, School of Resources and Environment, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330031, China
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11
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Parida S, Jena M, Behera AK, Mandal AK, Nayak R, Patra S. A Novel Phytocolorant, Neoxanthin, as a Potent Chemopreventive: Current Progress and Future Prospects. Curr Med Chem 2024; 31:5149-5164. [PMID: 38173069 DOI: 10.2174/0109298673273106231208102105] [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] [Received: 07/19/2023] [Revised: 10/18/2023] [Accepted: 11/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
Cancer is a general term for a group of similar diseases. It is a combined process that results from an accumulation of abnormalities at different biological levels, which involves changes at both genetic and biochemical levels in the cells. Several modifiable risk factors for each type of cancer include heredity, age, and institutional screening guidelines, including colonoscopy, mammograms, prostate-specific antigen testing, etc., which an individual cannot modify. Although a wide range of resources is available for cancer drugs and developmental studies, the cases are supposed to increase by about 70% in the next two decades due to environmental factors commonly driven by the way of living. The drugs used in cancer prevention are not entirely safe, have potential side effects and are generally unsuitable owing to substantial monetary costs. Interventions during the initiation and progression of cancer can prevent, diminish, or stop the transformation of healthy cells on the way to malignancy. Diet modifications are one of the most promising lifestyle changes that can decrease the threat of cancer development by nearly 40%. Neoxanthin is a xanthophyll pigment found in many microalgae and macroalgae, having significant anti-cancer, antioxidant and chemo-preventive activity. In this review, we have focused on the anti-cancer activity of neoxanthin on different cell lines and its cancer-preventive activity concerning obesity and oxidative stress. In addition to this, the preclinical studies and future perspectives are also discussed in this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sudhamayee Parida
- Algal Biotechnology and Molecular Systematics Laboratory, Post Graduate Department of Botany, Berhampur University, Berhampur, 760007, India
| | - Mrutyunjay Jena
- Algal Biotechnology and Molecular Systematics Laboratory, Post Graduate Department of Botany, Berhampur University, Berhampur, 760007, India
| | - Akshaya Kumar Behera
- Algal Biotechnology and Molecular Systematics Laboratory, Post Graduate Department of Botany, Berhampur University, Berhampur, 760007, India
| | - Amiya Kumar Mandal
- Algal Biotechnology and Molecular Systematics Laboratory, Post Graduate Department of Botany, Berhampur University, Berhampur, 760007, India
| | - Rabindra Nayak
- Algal Biotechnology and Molecular Systematics Laboratory, Post Graduate Department of Botany, Berhampur University, Berhampur, 760007, India
| | - Srimanta Patra
- Department of Life Science, NIT Rourkela, Rourkela, India
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12
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Bo Y, Wang S, Ma F, Yurevich Manyakhin A, Zhang G, Li X, Zhou C, Ge B, Yan X, Ruan R, Cheng P. The influence of spermidine on the build-up of fucoxanthin in Isochrysis sp. Acclimated to varying light intensities. BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY 2023; 387:129688. [PMID: 37595805 DOI: 10.1016/j.biortech.2023.129688] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2023] [Revised: 08/12/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 08/20/2023]
Abstract
Spermidine is a type of important growth regulator, which involved in the biosynthesis of photosynthetic pigments, and has the function of promoting cell proliferation. In this study, Isochrysis sp. was selected as the research object to explore the effects of spermidine supplementation on the growth of algal cells and fucoxanthin synthesis under different light intensities. The results showed that the cell density (5.40 × 106 cells/mL) of algae were the highest at 11 days under the light intensity of 200 μmol·m-2·s-1 and spermidine content of 150 μM. The contents of diadinoxanthin (1.09 mg/g) and fucoxanthin (6.11 mg/g) were the highest when spermidine was added under low light intensity, and the growth of algal cells and fucoxanthin metabolism were the most significant. In the carotenoid synthesis pathway, PDS (phytoene desaturase) was up-regulated by 1.96 times and VDE (violaxanthin de-epoxidase) was down-regulated by 0.95 times, which may promote fucoxanthin accumulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yahui Bo
- College of Food and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315211, China
| | - Shanshan Wang
- The first affiliated hospital of Ningbo university, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315211, China
| | - Feifei Ma
- College of Food and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315211, China
| | - Artem Yurevich Manyakhin
- Far Eastern Branch, Russian Academy of Sciences, Federal Scientific Center of East Asian Terrestrial Biodiversity, 100-letiya Vladivostoka Prospect, 159, Vladivostok 690022, Russia
| | - Guilin Zhang
- Lianxi Ecological Environment Bureau of Jiujiang City, Jiujiang, Jiangxi 332005, China
| | - Xiaohui Li
- College of Food and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315211, China
| | - Chengxu Zhou
- College of Food and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315211, China
| | - Baosheng Ge
- State Key Laboratory of Heavy Oil Processing and Center for Bioengineering and Biotechnology, China University of Petroleum (East China), Qingdao 266580, China
| | - Xiaojun Yan
- Key Laboratory of Marine Biotechnology of Zhejiang Province, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315211, China
| | - Roger Ruan
- Center for Biorefining, and Department of Bioproducts and Biosystems Engineering, University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, Saint Paul, MN 55108, USA
| | - Pengfei Cheng
- College of Food and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315211, China; Center for Biorefining, and Department of Bioproducts and Biosystems Engineering, University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, Saint Paul, MN 55108, USA.
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13
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Cao T, Bai Y, Buschbeck P, Tan Q, Cantrell MB, Chen Y, Jiang Y, Liu RZ, Ries NK, Shi X, Sun Y, Ware MA, Yang F, Zhang H, Han J, Zhang L, Huang J, Lohr M, Peers G, Li X. An unexpected hydratase synthesizes the green light-absorbing pigment fucoxanthin. THE PLANT CELL 2023; 35:3053-3072. [PMID: 37100425 PMCID: PMC10396388 DOI: 10.1093/plcell/koad116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2022] [Revised: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 04/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
The ketocarotenoid fucoxanthin and its derivatives can absorb blue-green light enriched in marine environments. Fucoxanthin is widely adopted by phytoplankton species as a main light-harvesting pigment, in contrast to land plants that primarily employ chlorophylls. Despite its supreme abundance in the oceans, the last steps of fucoxanthin biosynthesis have remained elusive. Here, we identified the carotenoid isomerase-like protein CRTISO5 as the diatom fucoxanthin synthase that is related to the carotenoid cis-trans isomerase CRTISO from land plants but harbors unexpected enzymatic activity. A crtiso5 knockout mutant in the model diatom Phaeodactylum tricornutum completely lacked fucoxanthin and accumulated the acetylenic carotenoid phaneroxanthin. Recombinant CRTISO5 converted phaneroxanthin into fucoxanthin in vitro by hydrating its carbon-carbon triple bond, instead of functioning as an isomerase. Molecular docking and mutational analyses revealed residues essential for this activity. Furthermore, a photophysiological characterization of the crtiso5 mutant revealed a major structural and functional role of fucoxanthin in photosynthetic pigment-protein complexes of diatoms. As CRTISO5 hydrates an internal alkyne physiologically, the enzyme has unique potential for biocatalytic applications. The discovery of CRTISO5 illustrates how neofunctionalization leads to major diversification events in evolution of photosynthetic mechanisms and the prominent brown coloration of most marine photosynthetic eukaryotes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianjun Cao
- Key Laboratory of Growth Regulation and Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou 310024, China
- Institute of Biology, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou 310024, China
| | - Yu Bai
- Department of Biology, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA
| | - Paul Buschbeck
- Institut für Molekulare Physiologie, Johannes Gutenberg-University, 55099 Mainz, Germany
| | - Qiaozhu Tan
- Key Laboratory of Structural Biology of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou 310024, China
| | - Michael B Cantrell
- Department of Biology, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA
| | - Yinjuan Chen
- Key Laboratory of Precise Synthesis of Functional Molecules of Zhejiang Province, School of Science, Instrumentation and Service Center for Molecular Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou 310024, China
| | - Yanyou Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Growth Regulation and Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou 310024, China
| | - Run-Zhou Liu
- Key Laboratory of Precise Synthesis of Functional Molecules of Zhejiang Province, School of Science, Westlake University, Hangzhou 310024, China
| | - Nana K Ries
- Institut für Molekulare Physiologie, Johannes Gutenberg-University, 55099 Mainz, Germany
| | - Xiaohuo Shi
- Key Laboratory of Precise Synthesis of Functional Molecules of Zhejiang Province, School of Science, Instrumentation and Service Center for Molecular Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou 310024, China
| | - Yan Sun
- College of Food and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315211, China
| | - Maxwell A Ware
- Department of Biology, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA
| | - Fenghua Yang
- Key Laboratory of Structural Biology of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou 310024, China
| | - Huan Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Growth Regulation and Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou 310024, China
- Institute of Biology, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou 310024, China
| | - Jichang Han
- College of Food and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315211, China
| | - Lihan Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Precise Synthesis of Functional Molecules of Zhejiang Province, School of Science, Westlake University, Hangzhou 310024, China
- Institute of Natural Sciences, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou 310024, China
| | - Jing Huang
- Institute of Biology, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou 310024, China
- Key Laboratory of Structural Biology of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou 310024, China
- Westlake Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Hangzhou 310024, China
| | - Martin Lohr
- Institut für Molekulare Physiologie, Johannes Gutenberg-University, 55099 Mainz, Germany
| | - Graham Peers
- Department of Biology, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA
| | - Xiaobo Li
- Key Laboratory of Growth Regulation and Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou 310024, China
- Institute of Biology, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou 310024, China
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14
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Chini Zittelli G, Lauceri R, Faraloni C, Silva Benavides AM, Torzillo G. Valuable pigments from microalgae: phycobiliproteins, primary carotenoids, and fucoxanthin. Photochem Photobiol Sci 2023; 22:1733-1789. [PMID: 37036620 DOI: 10.1007/s43630-023-00407-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Accepted: 03/03/2023] [Indexed: 04/11/2023]
Abstract
Phycobiliproteins, carotenoids and fucoxanthin are photosynthetic pigments extracted from microalgae and cyanobacteria with great potential biotechnological applications, as healthy food colorants and cosmetics. Phycocyanin possesses a brilliant blue color, with fluorescent properties making it useful as a reagent for immunological essays. The most important source of phycocyanin is the cyanobacterium Arthrospira platensis, however, recently, the Rhodophyta Galdieria sulphuraria has also been identified as such. The main obstacle to the commercialization of phycocyanin is represented by its chemical instability, strongly reducing its shelf-life. Moreover, the high level of purity needed for pharmaceutical applications requires several steps which increase both the production time and cost. Microalgae (Chlorella, Dunaliella, Nannochloropsis, Scenedesmus) produce several light harvesting carotenoids, and are able to manage with oxidative stress, due to their free radical scavenging properties, which makes them suitable for use as source of natural antioxidants. Many studies focused on the selection of the most promising strains producing valuable carotenoids and on their extraction and purification. Among carotenoids produced by marine microalgae, fucoxanthin is the most abundant, representing more than 10% of total carotenoids. Despite the abundance and diversity of fucoxanthin producing microalgae only a few species have been studied for commercial production, the most relevant being Phaeodactylum tricornutum. Due to its antioxidant activity, fucoxanthin can bring various potential benefits to the prevention and treatment of lifestyle-related diseases. In this review, we update the main results achieved in the production, extraction, purification, and commercialization of these important pigments, motivating the cultivation of microalgae as a source of natural pigments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Graziella Chini Zittelli
- Istituto per la Bioeconomia, CNR, Via Madonna del Piano 10, 50019, Sesto Fiorentino, Florence, Italy
| | - Rosaria Lauceri
- Istituto di Ricerca sulle Acque, CNR, Sede Di Verbania, Largo Tonolli 50, 28922, Verbania, Italy
| | - Cecilia Faraloni
- Istituto per la Bioeconomia, CNR, Via Madonna del Piano 10, 50019, Sesto Fiorentino, Florence, Italy
| | - Ana Margarita Silva Benavides
- Centro de Investigación en Ciencias del Mar Y Limnologίa, Universidad de Costa Rica, San Pedro, San José, 2060, Costa Rica
- Escuela de Biologia, Universidad de Costa Rica, San Pedro, San José, 2060, Costa Rica
| | - Giuseppe Torzillo
- Istituto per la Bioeconomia, CNR, Via Madonna del Piano 10, 50019, Sesto Fiorentino, Florence, Italy.
- Centro de Investigación en Ciencias del Mar Y Limnologίa, Universidad de Costa Rica, San Pedro, San José, 2060, Costa Rica.
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15
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Ding W, Ye Y, Yu L, Liu M, Liu J. Physiochemical and molecular responses of the diatom Phaeodactylum tricornutum to illumination transitions. BIOTECHNOLOGY FOR BIOFUELS AND BIOPRODUCTS 2023; 16:103. [PMID: 37328885 DOI: 10.1186/s13068-023-02352-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2023] [Accepted: 05/29/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Light is a key regulatory factor for photosynthesis and metabolism of microalgae. The diatom Phaeodactylum tricornutum is capable of exhibiting metabolic flexibility in response to light fluctuations. However, the metabolic switching and underlying molecular mechanisms upon illumination transitions remain poorly understood for this industrially relevant marine alga. To address these, the physiochemical and molecular responses of P. tricornutum upon high light (HL) and recovery (HLR) were probed. RESULTS Upon HL, P. tricornutum exhibited quick responses, including decreases in cell division, major light harvesting pigments (e.g., chlorophyll a, β-carotene, and fucoxanthin), chloroplastidic membrane lipids (e.g., monogalactosyldiacylglycerol, digalactosyldiacylglycerol, and sulfoquinovosyldiacylglycerol), and long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (e.g., C20:5), as well as increases in carbohydrates and neutral lipids particularly triacylglycerol. During HLR stage when the stress was removed, these physiochemical phenotypes were generally recovered, indicative of a rapid and reversible changes of P. tricornutum to cope with illumination transitions for survival and growth. Through the integrated analysis with time-resolved transcriptomics, we revealed the transcriptional control of photosynthesis and carbon metabolism in P. tricornutum responding to HL, which could be reversed more or less during the HLR stage. Furthermore, we highlighted key enzymes involved in carotenoid biosynthesis and lipid metabolism of P. tricornutum and identified monooxygenases putatively responsible for catalyzing the ketolation step towards fucoxanthin synthesis from neoxanthin. CONCLUSIONS The detailed profiling of physiochemical and transcriptional responses of P. tricornutum to HL-HLR treatments advances our understanding on the adaption of the alga to illumination transitions and provides new insights into engineering of the alga for improved production of value-added carotenoids and lipids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Ding
- Laboratory for Algae Biotechnology & Innovation, College of Engineering, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Ying Ye
- 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
| | - Meijing Liu
- 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.
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16
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Liu M, Ding W, Pan Y, Hu H, Liu J. Zeaxanthin epoxidase is involved in the carotenoid biosynthesis and light-dependent growth of the marine alga Nannochloropsis oceanica. BIOTECHNOLOGY FOR BIOFUELS AND BIOPRODUCTS 2023; 16:74. [PMID: 37138328 PMCID: PMC10157934 DOI: 10.1186/s13068-023-02326-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2023] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The marine alga Nannochloropsis oceanica, an emerging model belonging to Heterokont, is considered as a promising light-driven eukaryotic chassis for transforming carbon dioxide to various compounds including carotenoids. Nevertheless, the carotenogenic genes and their roles in the alga remain less understood and to be further explored. RESULTS Here, two phylogenetically distant zeaxanthin epoxidase (ZEP) genes from N. oceanica (NoZEP1 and NoZEP2) were functionally characterized. Subcellular localization experiment demonstrated that both NoZEP1 and NoZEP2 reside in the chloroplast yet with differential distribution patterns. Overexpression of NoZEP1 or NoZEP2 led to increases of violaxanthin and its downstream carotenoids at the expense of zeaxanthin in N. oceanica, with the extent of changes mediated by NoZEP1 overexpression being greater as compared to NoZEP2 overexpression. Suppression of NoZEP1 or NoZEP2, on the other hand, caused decreases of violaxanthin and its downstream carotenoids as well as increases of zeaxanthin; similarly, the extent of changes mediated by NoZEP1 suppression was larger than that by NoZEP2 suppression. Interestingly, chlorophyll a dropped following violaxanthin decrease in a well-correlated manner in response to NoZEP suppression. The thylakoid membrane lipids including monogalactosyldiacylglycerol also correlated with the violaxanthin decreases. Accordingly, NoZEP1 suppression resulted in more attenuated algal growth than NoZEP2 suppression did under either normal light or high light stage. CONCLUSIONS The results together support that both NoZEP1 and NoZEP2, localized in the chloroplast, have overlapping roles in epoxidating zeaxanthin to violaxanthin for the light-dependent growth, yet with NoZEP1 being more functional than NoZEP2 in N. oceanica. Our study provides implications into the understanding of carotenoid biosynthesis and future manipulation of N. oceanica for carotenoid production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meijing Liu
- Laboratory for Algae Biotechnology & Innovation, College of Engineering, Peking University, Beijing, 100871 China
| | - Wei Ding
- Laboratory for Algae Biotechnology & Innovation, College of Engineering, Peking University, Beijing, 100871 China
| | - Yufang Pan
- Key Laboratory of Algal Biology, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, 430072 China
| | - Hanhua Hu
- Key Laboratory of Algal Biology, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, 430072 China
| | - Jin Liu
- Laboratory for Algae Biotechnology & Innovation, College of Engineering, Peking University, Beijing, 100871 China
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17
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Higuchi Y, Iha M, Maoka T, Misawa N, Takemura M. Synthetic-biological approach for production of neoxanthin in Escherichia coli. PLANT BIOTECHNOLOGY (TOKYO, JAPAN) 2023; 40:15-20. [PMID: 38213917 PMCID: PMC10777127 DOI: 10.5511/plantbiotechnology.22.1130a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2022] [Accepted: 11/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2024]
Abstract
Carotenoids are isoprenoid pigments produced typically in plants, algae, and part of bacteria and fungi. Violaxanthin, neoxanthin, and lutein are xanthophylls biosynthesized specifically in land plants and part of algae. Nowadays, it is feasible to produce violaxanthin and lutein in Escherichia coli by pathway engineering, whereas there is no report to synthesize neoxanthin in E. coli. So far, several genes have been reported to code for neoxanthin synthases, e.g., NSY (NXS), ABA4 and VDL, which were assigned to catalyze a reaction for forming neoxanthin from violaxanthin. However, neither gene of these was common in plants or algae that biosynthesize neoxanthin, nor was confirmed by the E. coli complementation system. This study showed that the algal VDL gene (PtVDL1) was functional in recombinant E. coli cells accumulating violaxanthin to produce neoxanthin, whereas the E. coli cells failed to generate neoxanthin, when the NSY or ABA4 gene was introduced there instead of VDL. This result notes that VDL is one of veritable neoxanthin synthase genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuki Higuchi
- Research Institute for Bioresources and Biotechnology, Ishikawa Prefectural University, 1-308 Suematsu, Nonoichi, Ishikawa 921-8836, Japan
| | - Masahiko Iha
- SOUTH PRODUCT Ltd, 5184-71 Katsuren-haebaru, Uruma, Okinawa 904-2311, Japan
| | - Takashi Maoka
- Research Institute for Production Development, 15 Shimogamo-morimoto-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, Kyoto 606-0805, Japan
| | - Norihiko Misawa
- Research Institute for Bioresources and Biotechnology, Ishikawa Prefectural University, 1-308 Suematsu, Nonoichi, Ishikawa 921-8836, Japan
| | - Miho Takemura
- Research Institute for Bioresources and Biotechnology, Ishikawa Prefectural University, 1-308 Suematsu, Nonoichi, Ishikawa 921-8836, Japan
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18
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Zarekarizi A, Hoffmann L, Burritt DJ. The potential of manipulating light in the commercial production of carotenoids from algae. ALGAL RES 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.algal.2023.103047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/11/2023]
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19
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The Functions of Chloroplastic Ascorbate in Vascular Plants and Algae. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24032537. [PMID: 36768860 PMCID: PMC9916717 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24032537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2022] [Revised: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Ascorbate (Asc) is a multifunctional metabolite essential for various cellular processes in plants and animals. The best-known property of Asc is to scavenge reactive oxygen species (ROS), in a highly regulated manner. Besides being an effective antioxidant, Asc also acts as a chaperone for 2-oxoglutarate-dependent dioxygenases that are involved in the hormone metabolism of plants and the synthesis of various secondary metabolites. Asc also essential for the epigenetic regulation of gene expression, signaling and iron transport. Thus, Asc affects plant growth, development, and stress resistance via various mechanisms. In this review, the intricate relationship between Asc and photosynthesis in plants and algae is summarized in the following major points: (i) regulation of Asc biosynthesis by light, (ii) interaction between photosynthetic and mitochondrial electron transport in relation to Asc biosynthesis, (iii) Asc acting as an alternative electron donor of photosystem II, (iv) Asc inactivating the oxygen-evolving complex, (v) the role of Asc in non-photochemical quenching, and (vi) the role of Asc in ROS management in the chloroplast. The review also discusses differences in the regulation of Asc biosynthesis and the effects of Asc on photosynthesis in algae and vascular plants.
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20
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Bai Y, Cao T, Dautermann O, Buschbeck P, Cantrell MB, Chen Y, Lein CD, Shi X, Ware MA, Yang F, Zhang H, Zhang L, Peers G, Li X, Lohr M. Green diatom mutants reveal an intricate biosynthetic pathway of fucoxanthin. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2022; 119:e2203708119. [PMID: 36095219 PMCID: PMC9499517 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2203708119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2022] [Accepted: 08/08/2022] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Fucoxanthin is a major light-harvesting pigment in ecologically important algae such as diatoms, haptophytes, and brown algae (Phaeophyceae). Therefore, it is a major driver of global primary productivity. Species of these algal groups are brown colored because the high amounts of fucoxanthin bound to the proteins of their photosynthetic machineries enable efficient absorption of green light. While the structure of these fucoxanthin-chlorophyll proteins has recently been resolved, the biosynthetic pathway of fucoxanthin is still unknown. Here, we identified two enzymes central to this pathway by generating corresponding knockout mutants of the diatom Phaeodactylum tricornutum that are green due to the lack of fucoxanthin. Complementation of the mutants with the native genes or orthologs from haptophytes restored fucoxanthin biosynthesis. We propose a complete biosynthetic path to fucoxanthin in diatoms and haptophytes based on the carotenoid intermediates identified in the mutants and in vitro biochemical assays. It is substantially more complex than anticipated and reveals diadinoxanthin metabolism as the central regulatory hub connecting the photoprotective xanthophyll cycle and the formation of fucoxanthin. Moreover, our data show that the pathway evolved by repeated duplication and neofunctionalization of genes for the xanthophyll cycle enzymes violaxanthin de-epoxidase and zeaxanthin epoxidase. Brown algae lack diadinoxanthin and the genes described here and instead use an alternative pathway predicted to involve fewer enzymes. Our work represents a major step forward in elucidating the biosynthesis of fucoxanthin and understanding the evolution, biogenesis, and regulation of the photosynthetic machinery in algae.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Bai
- Department of Biology, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523-1878
| | - Tianjun Cao
- Key Laboratory of Growth Regulation and Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou 310024, China
- Institute of Biology, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou 310024, China
| | - Oliver Dautermann
- Institut für Molekulare Physiologie, Johannes Gutenberg-Universität, 55099 Mainz, Germany
| | - Paul Buschbeck
- Institut für Molekulare Physiologie, Johannes Gutenberg-Universität, 55099 Mainz, Germany
| | - Michael B. Cantrell
- Department of Biology, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523-1878
| | - Yinjuan Chen
- Key Laboratory of Precise Synthesis of Functional Molecules of Zhejiang Province, School of Science, Instrumentation and Service Center for Molecular Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou 310024, China
| | - Christopher D. Lein
- Institut für Molekulare Physiologie, Johannes Gutenberg-Universität, 55099 Mainz, Germany
| | - Xiaohuo Shi
- Key Laboratory of Precise Synthesis of Functional Molecules of Zhejiang Province, School of Science, Instrumentation and Service Center for Molecular Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou 310024, China
| | - Maxwell A. Ware
- Department of Biology, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523-1878
| | - Fenghua Yang
- Key Laboratory of Structural Biology of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou 310024, China
| | - Huan Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Growth Regulation and Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou 310024, China
- Institute of Biology, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou 310024, China
| | - Lihan Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Precise Synthesis of Functional Molecules of Zhejiang Province, School of Science, Westlake University, Hangzhou 310024, China
- Institute of Natural Sciences, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou 310024, China
| | - Graham Peers
- Department of Biology, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523-1878
| | - Xiaobo Li
- Key Laboratory of Growth Regulation and Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou 310024, China
- Institute of Biology, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou 310024, China
| | - Martin Lohr
- Institut für Molekulare Physiologie, Johannes Gutenberg-Universität, 55099 Mainz, Germany
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21
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Liu M, Ding W, Yu L, Shi Y, Liu J. Functional characterization of carotenogenic genes provides implications into carotenoid biosynthesis and engineering in the marine alga Nannochloropsis oceanica. ALGAL RES 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.algal.2022.102853] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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22
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Sun Y, Xin Y, Zhang L, Wang Y, Liu R, Li X, Zhou C, Zhang L, Han J. Enhancement of violaxanthin accumulation in Nannochloropsis oceanica by overexpressing a carotenoid isomerase gene from Phaeodactylum tricornutum. Front Microbiol 2022; 13:942883. [PMID: 36118188 PMCID: PMC9471142 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.942883] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2022] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Nannochloropsis has been considered as a promising feedstock for the industrial production of violaxanthin. However, a rational breeding strategy for the enhancement of violaxanthin content in this microalga is still vacant, thereby limiting its industrial application. All-trans-lycopene locates in the first branch point of carotenogenesis. The carotenoid isomerase (CRTISO), catalyzing the lycopene formation, is thus regarded as a key enzyme for carotenogenesis. Phaeodactylum tricornutum can accumulate high-level carotenoids under optimal conditions. Therefore, it is feasible to improve violaxanthin level in Nannochloropsis by overexpression of PtCRTISO. Protein targeting analysis of seven PtCRTISO candidates (PtCRTISO1–6 and PtCRTISO-like) demonstrated that PtCRTISO4 was most likely the carotenoid isomerase of P. tricornutum. Moreover, the transcriptional pattern of PtCRTISO4 at different cultivation periods was quite similar to other known carotenogenesis genes. Thus, PtCRTISO4 was transformed into N. oceanica. Compared to the wild type (WT), all three transgenic lines (T1–T3) of N. oceanica exhibited higher levels of total carotenoid and violaxanthin. Notably, T3 exhibited the peak violaxanthin content of 4.48 mg g–1 dry cell weight (DCW), which was 1.68-folds higher than WT. Interestingly, qRT-polymerase chain reaction (PCR) results demonstrated that phytoene synthase (NoPSY) rather than ζ-carotene desaturase (NoZDS) and lycopene β-cyclase (NoLCYB) exhibited the highest upregulation, suggesting that PtCRTISO4 played an additional regulatory role in terms of carotenoid accumulation. Moreover, PtCRTISO4 overexpression increased C18:1n-9 but decreased C16:1n-7, implying that C18:1 may serve as a main feedstock for xanthophyll esterification in Nannochloropsis. Our results will provide valuable information for the violaxanthin production from Nannochloropsis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Sun
- College of Food and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Yi Xin
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Resource Utilization in the South China Sea, College of Oceanology, Hainan University, Haikou, China
| | - Luyao Zhang
- College of Food and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Ying Wang
- College of Food and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Ruolan Liu
- College of Food and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Xiaohui Li
- College of Food and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Chengxu Zhou
- College of Food and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Lin Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Applied Marine Biotechnology of Ministry of Education of China, School of Marine Science, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
- *Correspondence: Lin Zhang,
| | - Jichang Han
- College of Food and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
- College of Marine Life Science, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, China
- Jichang Han,
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23
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Yao R, Fu W, Du M, Chen ZX, Lei AP, Wang JX. Carotenoids Biosynthesis, Accumulation, and Applications of a Model Microalga Euglenagracilis. Mar Drugs 2022; 20:496. [PMID: 36005499 PMCID: PMC9409970 DOI: 10.3390/md20080496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2022] [Revised: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 07/29/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The carotenoids, including lycopene, lutein, astaxanthin, and zeaxanthin belong to the isoprenoids, whose basic structure is made up of eight isoprene units, resulting in a C40 backbone, though some of them are only trace components in Euglena. They are essential to all photosynthetic organisms due to their superior photoprotective and antioxidant properties. Their dietary functions decrease the risk of breast, cervical, vaginal, and colorectal cancers and cardiovascular and eye diseases. Antioxidant functions of carotenoids are based on mechanisms such as quenching free radicals, mitigating damage from reactive oxidant species, and hindering lipid peroxidation. With the development of carotenoid studies, their distribution, functions, and composition have been identified in microalgae and higher plants. Although bleached or achlorophyllous mutants of Euglena were among the earliest carotenoid-related microalgae under investigation, current knowledge on the composition and biosynthesis of these compounds in Euglena is still elusive. This review aims to overview what is known about carotenoid metabolism in Euglena, focusing on the carotenoid distribution and structure, biosynthesis pathway, and accumulation in Euglena strains and mutants under environmental stresses and different culture conditions. Moreover, we also summarize the potential applications in therapy preventing carcinogenesis, cosmetic industries, food industries, and animal feed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - An-Ping Lei
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Marine Bioresource and Eco-Environmental Science, Shenzhen Engineering Laboratory for Marine Algal Biotechnology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory for Plant Epigenetics, College of Life Sciences and Oceanography, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China; (R.Y.); (W.F.); (M.D.); (Z.-X.C.)
| | - Jiang-Xin Wang
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Marine Bioresource and Eco-Environmental Science, Shenzhen Engineering Laboratory for Marine Algal Biotechnology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory for Plant Epigenetics, College of Life Sciences and Oceanography, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China; (R.Y.); (W.F.); (M.D.); (Z.-X.C.)
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Potential for the Production of Carotenoids of Interest in the Polar Diatom Fragilariopsis cylindrus. Mar Drugs 2022; 20:md20080491. [PMID: 36005496 PMCID: PMC9409807 DOI: 10.3390/md20080491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2022] [Revised: 07/15/2022] [Accepted: 07/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Carotenoid xanthophyll pigments are receiving growing interest in various industrial fields due to their broad and diverse bioactive and health beneficial properties. Fucoxanthin (Fx) and the inter-convertible couple diadinoxanthin–diatoxanthin (Ddx+Dtx) are acknowledged as some of the most promising xanthophylls; they are mainly synthesized by diatoms (Bacillariophyta). While temperate strains of diatoms have been widely investigated, recent years showed a growing interest in using polar strains, which are better adapted to the natural growth conditions of Nordic countries. The aim of the present study was to explore the potential of the polar diatom Fragilariopsis cylindrus in producing Fx and Ddx+Dtx by means of the manipulation of the growth light climate (daylength, light intensity and spectrum) and temperature. We further compared its best capacity to the strongest xanthophyll production levels reported for temperate counterparts grown under comparable conditions. In our hands, the best growing conditions for F. cylindrus were a semi-continuous growth at 7 °C and under a 12 h light:12 h dark photoperiod of monochromatic blue light (445 nm) at a PUR of 11.7 μmol photons m−2 s−1. This allowed the highest Fx productivity of 43.80 µg L−1 day−1 and the highest Fx yield of 7.53 µg Wh−1, more than two times higher than under ‘white’ light. For Ddx+Dtx, the highest productivity (4.55 µg L−1 day−1) was reached under the same conditions of ‘white light’ and at 0 °C. Our results show that F. cylindrus, and potentially other polar diatom strains, are very well suited for Fx and Ddx+Dtx production under conditions of low temperature and light intensity, reaching similar productivity levels as model temperate counterparts such as Phaeodactylum tricornutum. The present work supports the possibility of using polar diatoms as an efficient cold and low light-adapted bioresource for xanthophyll pigments, especially usable in Nordic countries.
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Sørensen M, Andersen-Ranberg J, Hankamer B, Møller BL. Circular biomanufacturing through harvesting solar energy and CO 2. TRENDS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2022; 27:655-673. [PMID: 35396170 DOI: 10.1016/j.tplants.2022.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2021] [Revised: 02/16/2022] [Accepted: 03/01/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Using synthetic biology, it is now time to expand the biosynthetic repertoire of plants and microalgae by utilizing the chloroplast to augment the production of desired high-value compounds and of oil-, carbohydrate-, or protein-enriched biomass based on direct harvesting of solar energy and the consumption of CO2. Multistream product lines based on separate commercialization of the isolated high-value compounds and of the improved bulk products increase the economic potential of the light-driven production system and accelerate commercial scale up. Here we outline the scientific basis for the establishment of such green circular biomanufacturing systems and highlight recent results that make this a realistic option based on cross-disciplinary basic and applied research to advance long-term solutions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mette Sørensen
- Plant Biochemistry Laboratory, Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Johan Andersen-Ranberg
- Plant Biochemistry Laboratory, Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Ben Hankamer
- Institute of Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Birger Lindberg Møller
- Plant Biochemistry Laboratory, Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.
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Cecchin M, Cazzaniga S, Martini F, Paltrinieri S, Bossi S, Maffei ME, Ballottari M. Astaxanthin and eicosapentaenoic acid production by S4, a new mutant strain of Nannochloropsis gaditana. Microb Cell Fact 2022; 21:117. [PMID: 35710482 PMCID: PMC9204945 DOI: 10.1186/s12934-022-01847-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2022] [Accepted: 06/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Astaxanthin is a ketocarotenoid with high antioxidant power used in different fields as healthcare, food/feed supplementation and as pigmenting agent in aquaculture. Primary producers of astaxanthin are some species of microalgae, unicellular photosynthetic organisms, as Haematococcus lacustris. Astaxanthin production by cultivation of Haematococcus lacustris is costly due to low biomass productivity, high risk of contamination and the requirement of downstream extraction processes, causing an extremely high price on the market. Some microalgae species are also primary producers of omega-3 fatty acids, essential nutrients for humans, being related to cardiovascular wellness, and required for visual and cognitive development. One of the main well-known producers of omega-3 fatty eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) is the marine microalga Nannochloropsis gaditana (named also Microchloropsis gaditana): this species has been already approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for human consumption and it is characterized by a fast grow phenotype. RESULTS Here we obtained by chemical mutagenesis a Nannochloropsis gaditana mutant strain, called S4, characterized by increased carotenoid to chlorophyll ratio. S4 strain showed improved photosynthetic activity, increased lipid productivity and increased ketocarotenoids accumulation, producing not only canthaxanthin but also astaxanthin, usually found only in traces in the WT strain. Ketocarotenoids produced in S4 strain were extractible in different organic solvents, with the highest efficiency observed upon microwaves pre-treatment followed by methanol extraction. By cultivation of S4 strain at different irradiances it was possible to produce up to 1.3 and 5.2 mgL-1 day-1 of ketocarotenoids and EPA respectively, in a single cultivation phase, even in absence of stressing conditions. Genome sequencing of S4 strain allowed to identify 199 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP): among the mutated genes, mutations in a carotenoid oxygenase gene and in a glutamate synthase gene could explain the different carotenoids content and the lower chlorophylls content, respectively. CONCLUSIONS By chemical mutagenesis and selection of strain with increased carotenoids to chlorophyll ratio it was possible to isolate a new Nannochloropsis gaditana strain, called S4 strain, characterized by increased lipids and ketocarotenoids accumulation. S4 strain can thus be considered as novel platform for ketocarotenoids and EPA production for different industrial applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michela Cecchin
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie, Università degli Studi di Verona, Strada le Grazie 15, 37134, Verona, Italy
| | - Stefano Cazzaniga
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie, Università degli Studi di Verona, Strada le Grazie 15, 37134, Verona, Italy
| | - Flavio Martini
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie, Università degli Studi di Verona, Strada le Grazie 15, 37134, Verona, Italy
| | - Stefania Paltrinieri
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie, Università degli Studi di Verona, Strada le Grazie 15, 37134, Verona, Italy
| | - Simone Bossi
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Vita e Biologia dei Sistemi, Unità di Fisiologia Vegetale, Università di Torino, Via Quarello 15/a, 10135, Turin, Italy
| | - Massimo E Maffei
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Vita e Biologia dei Sistemi, Unità di Fisiologia Vegetale, Università di Torino, Via Quarello 15/a, 10135, Turin, Italy
| | - Matteo Ballottari
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie, Università degli Studi di Verona, Strada le Grazie 15, 37134, Verona, Italy.
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Chen J, Huang Y, Shu Y, Hu X, Wu D, Jiang H, Wang K, Liu W, Fu W. Recent Progress on Systems and Synthetic Biology of Diatoms for Improving Algal Productivity. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2022; 10:908804. [PMID: 35646842 PMCID: PMC9136054 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2022.908804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 04/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Microalgae have drawn much attention for their potential applications as a sustainable source for developing bioactive compounds, functional foods, feeds, and biofuels. Diatoms, as one major group of microalgae with high yields and strong adaptability to the environment, have shown advantages in developing photosynthetic cell factories to produce value-added compounds, including heterologous bioactive products. However, the commercialization of diatoms has encountered several obstacles that limit the potential mass production, such as the limitation of algal productivity and low photosynthetic efficiency. In recent years, systems and synthetic biology have dramatically improved the efficiency of diatom cell factories. In this review, we discussed first the genome sequencing and genome-scale metabolic models (GEMs) of diatoms. Then, approaches to optimizing photosynthetic efficiency are introduced with a focus on the enhancement of biomass productivity in diatoms. We also reviewed genome engineering technologies, including CRISPR (clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats) gene-editing to produce bioactive compounds in diatoms. Finally, we summarized the recent progress on the diatom cell factory for producing heterologous compounds through genome engineering to introduce foreign genes into host diatoms. This review also pinpointed the bottlenecks in algal engineering development and provided critical insights into the future direction of algal production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiwei Chen
- Department of Marine Science, Ocean College, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yifan Huang
- Department of Marine Science, Ocean College, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yuexuan Shu
- Department of Marine Science, Ocean College, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiaoyue Hu
- Center for Data Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- School of Mathematical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Di Wu
- Department of Marine Science, Ocean College, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Hangjin Jiang
- Center for Data Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Kui Wang
- Department of Marine Science, Ocean College, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Weihua Liu
- School of Mathematical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Weiqi Fu
- Department of Marine Science, Ocean College, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Center for Systems Biology and Faculty of Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering and Computer Science, School of Engineering and Natural Sciences, University of Iceland, Reykjavik, Iceland
- *Correspondence: Weiqi Fu,
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28
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Pajot A, Hao Huynh G, Picot L, Marchal L, Nicolau E. Fucoxanthin from Algae to Human, an Extraordinary Bioresource: Insights and Advances in up and Downstream Processes. Mar Drugs 2022; 20:md20040222. [PMID: 35447895 PMCID: PMC9027613 DOI: 10.3390/md20040222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2022] [Revised: 03/21/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Fucoxanthin is a brown-colored pigment from algae, with great potential as a bioactive molecule due to its numerous properties. This review aims to present current knowledge on this high added-value pigment. An accurate analysis of the biological function of fucoxanthin explains its wide photon absorption capacities in golden-brown algae. The specific chemical structure of this pigment also leads to many functional activities in human health. They are outlined in this work and are supported by the latest studies in the literature. The scientific and industrial interest in fucoxanthin is correlated with great improvements in the development of algae cultures and downstream processes. The best fucoxanthin producing algae and their associated culture parameters are described. The light intensity is a major influencing factor, as it has to enable both a high biomass growth and a high fucoxanthin content. This review also insists on the most eco-friendly and innovative extraction methods and their perspective within the next years. The use of bio-based solvents, aqueous two-phase systems and the centrifugal partition chromatography are the most promising processes. The analysis of the global market and multiple applications of fucoxanthin revealed that Asian companies are major actors in the market with macroalgae. In addition, fucoxanthin from microalgae are currently produced in Israel and France, and are mostly authorized in the USA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Pajot
- Ifremer, GENALG Laboratory, Unité PHYTOX, F-44000 Nantes, France; (G.H.H.); (E.N.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Gia Hao Huynh
- Ifremer, GENALG Laboratory, Unité PHYTOX, F-44000 Nantes, France; (G.H.H.); (E.N.)
| | - Laurent Picot
- Unité Mixte de Recherche CNRS 7266 Littoral Environnement et Sociétés (LIENSs), Université La Rochelle, F-17042 La Rochelle, France;
| | - Luc Marchal
- Génie des Procédés Environnement (GEPEA), Université Nantes, F-44000 Saint Nazaire, France;
| | - Elodie Nicolau
- Ifremer, GENALG Laboratory, Unité PHYTOX, F-44000 Nantes, France; (G.H.H.); (E.N.)
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29
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Pajot A, Lavaud J, Carrier G, Garnier M, Saint-Jean B, Rabilloud N, Baroukh C, Bérard JB, Bernard O, Marchal L, Nicolau E. The Fucoxanthin Chlorophyll a/c-Binding Protein in Tisochrysis lutea: Influence of Nitrogen and Light on Fucoxanthin and Chlorophyll a/c-Binding Protein Gene Expression and Fucoxanthin Synthesis. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2022; 13:830069. [PMID: 35251102 PMCID: PMC8891753 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2022.830069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2021] [Accepted: 01/20/2022] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
We observed differences in lhc classification in Chromista. We proposed a classification of the lhcf family with two groups specific to haptophytes, one specific to diatoms, and one specific to seaweeds. Identification and characterization of the Fucoxanthin and Chlorophyll a/c-binding Protein (FCP) of the haptophyte microalgae Tisochrysis lutea were performed by similarity analysis. The FCP family contains 52 lhc genes in T. lutea. FCP pigment binding site candidates were characterized on Lhcf protein monomers of T. lutea, which possesses at least nine chlorophylls and five fucoxanthin molecules, on average, per monomer. The expression of T. lutea lhc genes was assessed during turbidostat and chemostat experiments, one with constant light (CL) and changing nitrogen phases, the second with a 12 h:12 h sinusoidal photoperiod and changing nitrogen phases. RNA-seq analysis revealed a dynamic decrease in the expression of lhc genes with nitrogen depletion. We observed that T. lutea lhcx2 was only expressed at night, suggesting that its role is to protect \cells from return of light after prolonged darkness exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Pajot
- IFREMER, Physiology and Biotechnology of Algae Laboratory, Nantes, France
| | - Johann Lavaud
- LEMAR-Laboratoire des Sciences de l’Environnement Marin, UMR 6539, CNRS/Univ Brest/Ifremer/IRD, Institut Universitaire Européen de la Mer, Technopôle Brest-Iroise, Plouzané, France
| | - Gregory Carrier
- IFREMER, Physiology and Biotechnology of Algae Laboratory, Nantes, France
| | - Matthieu Garnier
- IFREMER, Physiology and Biotechnology of Algae Laboratory, Nantes, France
| | - Bruno Saint-Jean
- IFREMER, Physiology and Biotechnology of Algae Laboratory, Nantes, France
| | - Noémie Rabilloud
- IFREMER, Physiology and Biotechnology of Algae Laboratory, Nantes, France
| | - Caroline Baroukh
- IFREMER, Physiology and Biotechnology of Algae Laboratory, Nantes, France
| | | | - Olivier Bernard
- Université Côte d’Azur, Biocore, INRIA, CNRS, Sorbonne Université (LOV, UMR 7093), Sophia-Antipolis, France
| | | | - Elodie Nicolau
- IFREMER, Physiology and Biotechnology of Algae Laboratory, Nantes, France
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30
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Leonelli L. An in vivo plant platform to assess genes encoding native and synthetic enzymes for carotenoid biosynthesis. Methods Enzymol 2022; 671:489-509. [DOI: 10.1016/bs.mie.2022.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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31
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A review on the progress, challenges and prospects in commercializing microalgal fucoxanthin. Biotechnol Adv 2021; 53:107865. [PMID: 34763051 DOI: 10.1016/j.biotechadv.2021.107865] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2021] [Revised: 10/22/2021] [Accepted: 11/02/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Fucoxanthin, the most abundant but nearly untapped carotenoid resource, is in the spotlight in the last decade from various perspectives due to a wide range of bioactivities and healthy benefits. The exploitation of fucoxanthin for nutraceutical and pharmaceutical purposes encompasses enormous scientific and economic potentials. Traditional production of fucoxanthin from brown algae (macroalgae) is constrained by limited yield and prohibitively high cost. Microalgae, as the most diverse photoautotrophs, hold the promises as sustainable sources and ideal cell factories for commercial fucoxanthin production, owing to their rich fucoxanthin content and excellent biomass productivity. In this work, the recent progress in upstream (microalgae selection, optimization of culture conditions, trophic modes, cultivation strategies and biosynthesis pathway) as well as downstream processes (extraction) of fucoxanthin production has been comprehensively and critically reviewed. The major bottlenecks, such as screening of fucoxanthin-producers, conflict between biomass and fucoxanthin accumulation under high light condition, unclear steps in biosynthesis pathway and limited evaluation of outdoor scale-up cultivation and extraction, have been pinpointed. Most importantly, the applications of emerging and conventional techniques facilitating commercialization of microalgal fucoxanthin are highlighted. The reviewed and evaluated include breeding and high-throughput screening methods of elite strains; flashing light effect inducing concurrent biomass and fucoxanthin accumulation; fucoxanthin biosynthesis and the regulatory mechanisms associating with its accumulation elucidated with the development of genetic engineering and omics techniques; and photobioreactors, harvesting and extraction techniques suitable for scaling up fucoxanthin production. In conclusion, the prospects of microalgal fucoxanthin commercialization can be expected with the joint development of fundamental phycology and biotechnology.
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32
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Wakao S, Niyogi KK. Chlamydomonas as a model for reactive oxygen species signaling and thiol redox regulation in the green lineage. PLANT PHYSIOLOGY 2021; 187:687-698. [PMID: 35237823 PMCID: PMC8491031 DOI: 10.1093/plphys/kiab355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2021] [Accepted: 07/13/2021] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
One-sentence summary: Advances in proteomic and transcriptomic studies have made Chlamydomonas a powerful research model in redox and reactive oxygen species regulation with unique and overlapping mechanisms with plants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Setsuko Wakao
- Division of Molecular Biophysics and Integrated Bioimaging, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, California 94720, USA
- Department of Plant and Microbial Biology, University of California, Berkeley, California 94720, USA
- Author for communication: Senior author
| | - Krishna K. Niyogi
- Division of Molecular Biophysics and Integrated Bioimaging, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, California 94720, USA
- Department of Plant and Microbial Biology, University of California, Berkeley, California 94720, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of California, Berkeley, California 94720, USA
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33
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Anderson CM, Mattoon EM, Zhang N, Becker E, McHargue W, Yang J, Patel D, Dautermann O, McAdam SAM, Tarin T, Pathak S, Avenson TJ, Berry J, Braud M, Niyogi KK, Wilson M, Nusinow DA, Vargas R, Czymmek KJ, Eveland AL, Zhang R. High light and temperature reduce photosynthetic efficiency through different mechanisms in the C 4 model Setaria viridis. Commun Biol 2021; 4:1092. [PMID: 34531541 PMCID: PMC8446033 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-021-02576-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2021] [Accepted: 08/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
C4 plants frequently experience high light and high temperature conditions in the field, which reduce growth and yield. However, the mechanisms underlying these stress responses in C4 plants have been under-explored, especially the coordination between mesophyll (M) and bundle sheath (BS) cells. We investigated how the C4 model plant Setaria viridis responded to a four-hour high light or high temperature treatment at photosynthetic, transcriptomic, and ultrastructural levels. Although we observed a comparable reduction of photosynthetic efficiency in high light or high temperature treated leaves, detailed analysis of multi-level responses revealed important differences in key pathways and M/BS specificity responding to high light and high temperature. We provide a systematic analysis of high light and high temperature responses in S. viridis, reveal different acclimation strategies to these two stresses in C4 plants, discover unique light/temperature responses in C4 plants in comparison to C3 plants, and identify potential targets to improve abiotic stress tolerance in C4 crops.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Erin M Mattoon
- Donald Danforth Plant Science Center, St. Louis, MO, USA.,Plant and Microbial Biosciences Program, Division of Biology and Biomedical Sciences, Washington University in Saint Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Ningning Zhang
- Donald Danforth Plant Science Center, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Eric Becker
- Donald Danforth Plant Science Center, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | | | - Jiani Yang
- Donald Danforth Plant Science Center, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Dhruv Patel
- Department of Plant and Microbial Biology, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Oliver Dautermann
- Department of Plant and Microbial Biology, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Scott A M McAdam
- Purdue Center for Plant Biology, Department of Botany and Plant Pathology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
| | - Tonantzin Tarin
- Department of Plant and Soil Sciences, University of Delaware, Newark, DE, USA.,Instituto de Ecología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Sunita Pathak
- Donald Danforth Plant Science Center, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Tom J Avenson
- Department of Plant Sciences, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Jeffrey Berry
- Donald Danforth Plant Science Center, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Maxwell Braud
- Donald Danforth Plant Science Center, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Krishna K Niyogi
- Department of Plant and Microbial Biology, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA.,Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Berkeley, CA, USA.,Molecular Biophysics and Integrated Bioimaging Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | | | | | - Rodrigo Vargas
- Department of Plant and Soil Sciences, University of Delaware, Newark, DE, USA
| | - Kirk J Czymmek
- Donald Danforth Plant Science Center, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | | | - Ru Zhang
- Donald Danforth Plant Science Center, St. Louis, MO, USA.
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Takemura M, Sahara T, Misawa N. Violaxanthin: natural function and occurrence, biosynthesis, and heterologous production. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2021; 105:6133-6142. [PMID: 34338805 DOI: 10.1007/s00253-021-11452-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2021] [Revised: 07/02/2021] [Accepted: 07/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Violaxanthin is biosynthesized from zeaxanthin with zeaxanthin epoxidase (ZEP) by way of antheraxanthin only in photosynthetic eukaryotes including higher plants and involved in the xanthophyll cycle to eliminate excessive light energy. Violaxanthin and antheraxanthin have commercially been unavailable, in contrast to commercial production of other carotenoids contained in higher plants, e.g., lycopene, β-carotene, lutein, zeaxanthin, β-cryptoxanthin, and capsanthin. One of the reasons is considered that resource plants or other resource organisms do not exist for enabling efficient supply of the epoxy-carotenoids, which are expected to be produced through (metabolic) pathway engineering with heterologous microbial hosts such as Escherichia coli and Saccharomyces cerevisiae. In this Mini-Review, we show heterologous production of violaxanthin with the two microorganisms that have exhibited significant advances these days. We further describe natural function and occurrence, and biosynthesis involving violaxanthin, antheraxanthin, and their derivatives that include auroxanthin and mutatoxanthin. KEY POINTS: • A comprehensive review on epoxy-carotenoids violaxanthin and antheraxanthin. • Pathway engineering for the epoxy-carotenoids in heterologous microbes. • Our new findings on violaxanthin production with the budding yeast.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miho Takemura
- Research Institute for Bioresources and Biotechnology, Ishikawa Prefectural University, 1-308, Suematsu, Nonoichi-shi, 921-8836, Japan
| | - Takehiko Sahara
- Bioproduction Research Institute, National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST), 1-1-1, Higashi, Tsukuba-shi, 305-8566, Japan
| | - Norihiko Misawa
- Research Institute for Bioresources and Biotechnology, Ishikawa Prefectural University, 1-308, Suematsu, Nonoichi-shi, 921-8836, Japan.
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35
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Sørensen M, Møller BL. Metabolic Engineering of Photosynthetic Cells – in Collaboration with Nature. Metab Eng 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/9783527823468.ch21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
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36
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Blommaert L, Chafai L, Bailleul B. The fine-tuning of NPQ in diatoms relies on the regulation of both xanthophyll cycle enzymes. Sci Rep 2021; 11:12750. [PMID: 34140542 PMCID: PMC8211711 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-91483-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2020] [Accepted: 05/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Diatoms possess an efficient mechanism to dissipate photons as heat in conditions of excess light, which is visualized as the Non-Photochemical Quenching of chlorophyll a fluorescence (NPQ). In most diatom species, NPQ is proportional to the concentration of the xanthophyll cycle pigment diatoxanthin formed from diadinoxanthin by the diadinoxanthin de-epoxidase enzyme. The reverse reaction is performed by the diatoxanthin epoxidase. Despite the xanthophyll cycle's central role in photoprotection, its regulation is not yet well understood. The proportionality between diatoxanthin and NPQ allowed us to calculate the activity of both xanthophyll cycle enzymes in the model diatom Phaeodactylum tricornutum from NPQ kinetics. From there, we explored the light-dependency of the activity of both enzymes. Our results demonstrate that a tight regulation of both enzymes is key to fine-tune NPQ: (i) the rate constant of diadinoxanthin de-epoxidation is low under a light-limiting regime but increases as photosynthesis saturates, probably due to the thylakoidal proton gradient ΔpH (ii) the rate constant of diatoxanthin epoxidation exhibits an optimum under low light and decreases in the dark due to an insufficiency of the co-factor NADPH as well as in higher light through an as yet unresolved inhibition mechanism, that is unlikely to be related to the ΔpH. We observed that the suppression of NPQ by an uncoupler was due to an accelerated diatoxanthin epoxidation enzyme rather than to the usually hypothesized inhibition of the diadinoxanthin de-epoxidation enzyme.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lander Blommaert
- Laboratory of Chloroplast Biology and Light Sensing in Microalgae, UMR 7141, Centre National de La Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), Sorbonne Université, Institut de Biologie Physico-Chimique, 75005, Paris, France. .,Department of Estuarine and Delta System, NIOZ Royal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research, PO Box 140, 4400 AC, Yerseke, The Netherlands.
| | - Lamia Chafai
- Laboratory of Chloroplast Biology and Light Sensing in Microalgae, UMR 7141, Centre National de La Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), Sorbonne Université, Institut de Biologie Physico-Chimique, 75005, Paris, France
| | - Benjamin Bailleul
- Laboratory of Chloroplast Biology and Light Sensing in Microalgae, UMR 7141, Centre National de La Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), Sorbonne Université, Institut de Biologie Physico-Chimique, 75005, Paris, France.
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37
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Gupta AK, Seth K, Maheshwari K, Baroliya PK, Meena M, Kumar A, Vinayak V, Harish. Biosynthesis and extraction of high-value carotenoid from algae. FRONT BIOSCI-LANDMRK 2021; 26:171-190. [PMID: 34162044 DOI: 10.52586/4932] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2021] [Accepted: 05/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Algae possess a considerable potential as bio-refinery for the scale-up production of high-value natural compounds like-carotenoids. Carotenoids are accessory pigments in the light-harvesting apparatus and also act as antioxidants and photo-protectors in green cells. They play important roles for humans, like-precursors of vitamin A, reduce the risk of some cancers, helps in the prevention of age-related diseases, cardiovascular diseases, improve skin health, and stimulates immunity. To date, about 850 types of natural carotenoid compounds have been reported and they have approximated 1.8 billion US$ of global market value. In comparison to land plants, there are few reports on biosynthetic pathways and molecular level regulation of algal carotenogenesis. Recent advances of algal genome sequencing, data created by high-throughput technologies and transcriptome studies, enables a better understanding of the origin and evolution of de novo carotenoid biosynthesis pathways in algae. Here in this review, we focused on, the biochemical and molecular mechanism of carotenoid biosynthesis in algae. Additionally, structural features of different carotenoids are elaborated from a chemistry point of view. Furthermore, current understandings of the techniques designed for pigment extraction from algae are reviewed. In the last section, applications of different carotenoids are elucidated and the growth potential of the global market value of carotenoids are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amit Kumar Gupta
- Department of Botany, Mohanlal Sukhadia University, 313 001 Udaipur, Rajasthan, India
| | - Kunal Seth
- Department of Botany, Government Science College, Pardi, 396125 Valsad, Gujarat, India
| | - Kirti Maheshwari
- Department of Botany, Mohanlal Sukhadia University, 313 001 Udaipur, Rajasthan, India
| | - Prabhat Kumar Baroliya
- Department of Chemistry, Mohanlal Sukhadia University, 313 001 Udaipur, Rajasthan, India
| | - Mukesh Meena
- Department of Botany, Mohanlal Sukhadia University, 313 001 Udaipur, Rajasthan, India
| | - Ashwani Kumar
- Metagenomics and Secretomics Research Laboratory, Department of Botany, Dr. Harisingh Gour Central University, 470003 Sagar, MP, India
| | - Vandana Vinayak
- Diatom Nanoengineering and Metabolism Laboratory (DNM), School of Applied Sciences, Dr. Harisingh Gour Central University, 470003 Sagar, MP, India
| | - Harish
- Department of Botany, Mohanlal Sukhadia University, 313 001 Udaipur, Rajasthan, India
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38
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Ekwealor JTB, Clark TA, Dautermann O, Russell A, Ebrahimi S, Stark LR, Niyogi KK, Mishler BD. Natural ultraviolet radiation exposure alters photosynthetic biology and improves recovery from desiccation in a desert moss. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL BOTANY 2021; 72:4161-4179. [PMID: 33595636 DOI: 10.1093/jxb/erab051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2020] [Accepted: 02/01/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Plants in dryland ecosystems experience extreme daily and seasonal fluctuations in light, temperature, and water availability. We used an in situ field experiment to uncover the effects of natural and reduced levels of ultraviolet radiation (UV) on maximum PSII quantum efficiency (Fv/Fm), relative abundance of photosynthetic pigments and antioxidants, and the transcriptome in the desiccation-tolerant desert moss Syntrichia caninervis. We tested the hypotheses that: (i) S. caninervis plants undergo sustained thermal quenching of light [non-photochemical quenching (NPQ)] while desiccated and after rehydration; (ii) a reduction of UV will result in improved recovery of Fv/Fm; but (iii) 1 year of UV removal will de-harden plants and increase vulnerability to UV damage, indicated by a reduction in Fv/Fm. All field-collected plants had extremely low Fv/Fm after initial rehydration but recovered over 8 d in lab-simulated winter conditions. UV-filtered plants had lower Fv/Fm during recovery, higher concentrations of photoprotective pigments and antioxidants such as zeaxanthin and tocopherols, and lower concentrations of neoxanthin and Chl b than plants exposed to near natural UV levels. Field-grown S. caninervis underwent sustained NPQ that took days to relax and for efficient photosynthesis to resume. Reduction of solar UV radiation adversely affected recovery of Fv/Fm following rehydration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenna T B Ekwealor
- Department of Integrative Biology, and University and Jepson Herbaria, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Theresa A Clark
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nevada, Las Vegas, NV, USA
| | - Oliver Dautermann
- Department of Plant and Microbial Biology, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | | | - Sotodeh Ebrahimi
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nevada, Las Vegas, NV, USA
| | - Lloyd R Stark
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nevada, Las Vegas, NV, USA
| | - Krishna K Niyogi
- Department of Plant and Microbial Biology, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA
- Molecular Biophysics and Integrated Bioimaging Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Brent D Mishler
- Department of Integrative Biology, and University and Jepson Herbaria, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA
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39
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Manfellotto F, Stella GR, Falciatore A, Brunet C, Ferrante MI. Engineering the Unicellular Alga Phaeodactylum tricornutum for Enhancing Carotenoid Production. Antioxidants (Basel) 2020; 9:E757. [PMID: 32824292 PMCID: PMC7465010 DOI: 10.3390/antiox9080757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2020] [Revised: 08/07/2020] [Accepted: 08/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Microalgae represent a promising resource for the production of beneficial natural compounds due to their richness in secondary metabolites and easy cultivation. Carotenoids feature among distinctive compounds of many microalgae, including diatoms, which owe their golden color to the xanthophyll fucoxanthin. Carotenoids have antioxidant, anti-obesity and anti-inflammatory properties, and there is a considerable market demand for these compounds. Here, with the aim to increase the carotenoid content in the model diatom Phaeodactylum tricornutum, we exploited genetic transformation to overexpress genes involved in the carotenoid biosynthetic pathway. We produced transgenic lines over-expressing simultaneously one, two or three carotenoid biosynthetic genes, and evaluated changes in pigment content with high-performance liquid chromatography. Two triple transformants over-expressing the genes Violaxanthin de-epoxidase (Vde), Vde-related (Vdr) and Zeaxanthin epoxidase 3 (Zep3) showed an accumulation of carotenoids, with an increase in the fucoxanthin content up to four fold. Vde, Vdr and Zep3 mRNA and protein levels in the triple transformants were coherently increased. The exact role of these enzymes in the diatom carotenoid biosynthetic pathway is not completely elucidated nevertheless our strategy successfully modulated the carotenoid metabolism leading to an accumulation of valuable compounds, leading the way toward improved utilization of microalgae in the field of antioxidants.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Giulio Rocco Stella
- Laboratory of Computational and Quantitative Biology, UMR 7238, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), Sorbonne Université, Institut de Biologie Paris-Seine, F-75005 Paris, France; (G.R.S.); (A.F.)
- Boston Consulting Group, Via Ugo Foscolo 1, 20121 Milano, Italy
| | - Angela Falciatore
- Laboratory of Computational and Quantitative Biology, UMR 7238, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), Sorbonne Université, Institut de Biologie Paris-Seine, F-75005 Paris, France; (G.R.S.); (A.F.)
- Laboratory of Chloroplast Biology and Light Sensing in Microalgae, UMR 7141, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), Sorbonne Université, Institut de Biologie Physico-Chimique, F-75005 Paris, France
| | - Christophe Brunet
- Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Villa Comunale, 80121 Naples, Italy;
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