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Thraustochytrid Cell Factories for Producing Lipid Compounds
Xiao-Man Sun1, Ying-Shuang Xu1, He Huang2
1School of Food Science and Pharmaceutical Engineering, Nanjing Normal University, 2 Xuelin Road, Qixia District, Nanjing, China.
Trends in Biotechnology
|November 17, 2020
Summary
Marine thraustochytrids can produce high biomass yields (over 150 g/l) rich in lipids (up to 55%). Their metabolic capabilities and existing bioprocess engineering strategies highlight their potential for future development.
Area of Science:
- Marine microbiology
- Biotechnology
- Bioprocess engineering
Background:
- Thraustochytrids are marine protists with significant biotechnological potential.
- These organisms are known for their ability to accumulate biomass and lipids.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the potential of thraustochytrids for biomass and lipid production.
- To review the key factors contributing to their promise in bioprocess development.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on thraustochytrid cultivation and metabolic pathways.
- Analysis of reported biomass and lipid accumulation capacities.
- Assessment of current bioprocess engineering strategies applicable to thraustochytrids.
Main Results:
- Thraustochytrids can achieve biomass concentrations exceeding 150 g/l.
- Lipid content can reach up to 55% of the dry biomass without genetic modification.
- Broad substrate utilization and effective metabolic pathways are key advantages.
Conclusions:
- Thraustochytrids represent a promising platform for sustainable production of biomass and lipids.
- Further development of bioprocess engineering strategies will enhance their industrial application.
- These marine protists offer a viable alternative for oleochemical and biofuel production.
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