Molecular Tools for Bioengineering Eukaryotic Microalgae

Authors:
  • AKAnil Kumar
    Anil Kumar
  • ZPZoee Perrine
    Zoee Perrine
  • CSClayton Stroff
    Clayton Stroff
  • BPBradley L. Postier
    Bradley L. Postier
  • DCDaniel A. Coury
    Daniel A. Coury
  • RSRichard T. Sayre
    Richard T. Sayre
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Abstract
As interest in the use of eukaryotic microalgae as production platforms for biofuels and bioproducts increases, it is important that species-specific tools are made available. Species-specific molecular toolboxes will allow the engineering of improved performance to drive down manufacturing costs to overcome the economic thresholds for production of commercially competitive products. Historically, most genetic manipulation of eukaryotic microalgae focused on model algal strains such as Chlamydomonas reinhardtii, Chlorella sp., and Phaeodactylum tricornutum. The strong foundation built using model algal species now allows more rapid development of species-specific molecular tool boxes as novel microalgae-based products are identified in new algal strains. Customized tools for engineering improved production in strains that hold promise for fuels, foods, and high value chemicals will be a focus of future research. A snapshot of the current status of eukaryotic algal molecular engineering tools is provided plus data generated in our laboratory as we developed tools for manipulation of Auxenochlorella protothecoides.