Cyanobacteria microbiomes for bioplastic production: Critical review of key factors and challenges in scaling from laboratory to industry set-ups

Beatriz Altamira-Algarra ¹, Joan Garcia ², Eva Gonzalez-Flo ¹

⁰GEMMA-Group of Environmental Engineering and Microbiology. Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering. Escola d'Enginyeria de Barcelona Est (EEBE). Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya-BarcelonaTech. Av. Eduard Maristany 16. Building C5.1. E-, 08019 Barcelona. Spain.

Bioresource Technology +

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February 16, 2025

View abstract on PubMed

Summary

Cyanobacteria microbiomes offer a promising, cost-effective method for producing polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) using non-sterile conditions. Effective management of microbial populations and optimized cultivation are key to overcoming challenges in scaling up PHB biopolymer production.

Area Of Science

Microbiology
Biotechnology
Synthetic Biology

Background

Cyanobacteria are photosynthetic microorganisms that can synthesize polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB), a biodegradable polymer.
Exploring cyanobacterial microbiomes for PHB production offers potential cost reductions via non-sterile cultivation and diverse substrates.

Purpose Of The Study

To review the current state of PHB production using cyanobacterial microbiomes.
To highlight strategies for optimizing cultivation and overcoming production challenges.
To discuss industrial-scale production hurdles and potential solutions.

Main Methods

Review of literature on PHB production from cyanobacteria and their microbiomes.
Analysis of cultivation parameter optimization for enhanced biopolymer yield.
Evaluation of integrated molecular biology techniques and PHB analysis methods.

Main Results

Cyanobacterial microbiomes show potential for high yields and sustained PHB synthesis.
Optimized cultivation parameters can significantly enhance biopolymer production.
Integrated molecular and analytical approaches are crucial for managing non-sterile conditions.

Conclusions

Cyanobacterial microbiomes represent a promising avenue for sustainable PHB production.
Addressing challenges in non-sterile cultivation and population dynamics is essential for success.
Scaling up requires integrated strategies combining biological and engineering approaches for industrial viability.

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