Enhanced mixotrophic production of lutein and lipid from potential microalgae isolate Chlorella sorokiniana C16

The current work aims to isolate high lutein-producing microalgae and maximize lutein production under a sustainable lutein-lipid biorefinery scheme. Lutein reduces retinitis, macular degeneration risk and improves eye health. An effective bioprocess design optimized nutrients, temperature, light, and salinity for biomass and lutein yield enhancement. 3X macro/micronutrients maximally enhanced biomass and lutein yields, 5.2 g/Land 71.13 mg/L. Temperature 32 °C exhibited maximum 17.4 mg/g lutein content and 10 k lux was most favorable for growth and lutein yield (15.47 mg/g). A 25% seawater addition led maximum of 21-27% lipid that could be used for biodiesel. Isolate was identified as Chlorella sorokiniana C16, which exhibited one of the highest lutein yields reported among recent studies, positioning it as a promising candidate for commercial lutein production. This study provides valuable insights into an effective bioprocess design and highlights the C16 strain potential as a sustainable platform for high-value lutein production under a biorefinery scheme.