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Updated: Dec 3, 2025

Author Spotlight: Scaling Microalgal Biotechnology for Enhanced Biomethane Production
Published on: March 22, 2024
Metabolic pathways for microalgal biohydrogen production: Current progress and future prospectives
Marwa M El-Dalatony1, Yuanzhang Zheng2, Min-Kyu Ji3
1Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, Gansu Province, PR China; School of Life Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, Gansu Province, PR China.
Microalgal biohydrogen offers a sustainable energy source. This review clarifies metabolic pathways and highlights factors like light, nutrients, and advanced engineering for efficient biohydrogen production.
Area of Science:
- Biotechnology
- Renewable Energy
- Environmental Science
Background:
- Microalgal biohydrogen (bioH2) is a promising carbon-free energy source.
- Existing reviews lack clear differentiation of metabolic pathways for bioH2 production.
- Recent research (last 5 years) requires consolidated analysis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate diverse metabolic pathways for microalgal bioH2 production.
- To analyze key factors influencing bioH2 yield.
- To explore novel strategies and recent technological advancements.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive review of literature focusing on the last five years.
- Analysis of metabolic pathways, influencing factors (light, nutrients, cell density, substrate), and pretreatment effects.
- Evaluation of microbial electrolysis cells and bioreactor performance.
Main Results:
- Key factors affecting bioH2 production identified and highlighted.
- Impact of pretreatment on bioaccessibility discussed.
- Microbial electrolysis cells presented as an emerging strategy.
- Genetic and metabolic engineering approaches show promise in enhancing bioH2 yield.
Conclusions:
- Clarified metabolic pathways for microalgal biohydrogen production.
- Emphasized the importance of optimizing environmental and operational conditions.
- Highlighted the potential of advanced biotechnologies for future improvements.
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