Application of the CRISPR/Cas system for genome editing in microalgae

Area of Science:

• Biotechnology
• Molecular Biology
• Marine Biology

Background:

• Microalgae are abundant single-celled eukaryotes with significant biotechnological applications.
• They are utilized for producing bioenergy, polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), peptides, proteins, and antioxidants.
• Genetic editing is crucial for improving microalgal metabolite production.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the application of CRISPR/Cas in microalgal genetic engineering.
• To summarize current literature on CRISPR/Cas-based microalgal modification techniques.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing scientific literature on CRISPR/Cas applications in microalgae.
• Analysis of transformation methods for microalgal genetic engineering.
• Examination of strategies for Cas9 and single-guide RNA (sgRNA) expression.
• Evaluation of CRISPR/Cas9-mediated gene knock-in/knock-out and interference strategies.

Main Results:

• The CRISPR/Cas system is the most prominent genome editing tool due to its high efficiency.
• Various CRISPR/Cas applications in microalgae include gene knock-in, knock-out, and expression modification.
• Specific strategies for transformation and gene expression have been developed.

Conclusions:

• CRISPR/Cas technology is revolutionizing microalgal genetic engineering.
• This system enables precise modification of microalgal genomes for enhanced metabolite production.
• Further research into CRISPR/Cas applications will drive advancements in microalgal biotechnology.