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Binary solvent extraction of intracellular lipids from Rhodotorula toruloides for cell recycling
Jingyi Song1, Rasool Kamal1, Yadong Chu1,2
1Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, CAS, 457 Zhongshan Road, Dalian, 116023, People's Republic of China.
Biotechnology for Biofuels and Bioproducts
|May 12, 2025
Summary
This study introduces a gentle, solvent-based method for extracting lipids from oleaginous yeast, enabling cell recycling and reuse for biofuel production. The process achieves significant lipid yield while maintaining cell viability for subsequent fermentation rounds.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Biotechnology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Microbial lipid extraction is crucial for biofuels and chemicals from oleaginous microorganisms.
- Efficient, eco-friendly extraction methods are needed due to complex microbial cell walls.
- Current methods often require cell disruption, limiting cell reuse.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a method for extracting intracellular lipids from oleaginous yeasts.
- To utilize inexpensive solvents for lipid extraction without cell disruption.
- To maintain cell viability for potential cell recycling and reuse.
Main Methods:
- Lipid extraction from Rhodotorula toruloides fermentation broth using a methyl tert-butyl ether (MTBE) and n-hexane binary solvent.
- Analysis of extraction time and solvent ratio effects on cell viability and lipid yield.
- Cell regrowth and subsequent lipid production after initial extraction.
Main Results:
- A binary solvent (40% MTBE) achieved 60% total lipid extraction with 5% cell survival.
- Surviving cells, after nutrient supplementation, regained biomass and produced lipids.
- The gentle extraction method allows for cell recycling and multiple rounds of lipid production.
Conclusions:
- The developed method enables lipid extraction without cell wall destruction.
- Simple separation and recyclability of both cells and solvents are key advantages.
- This approach offers a potential strategy for simultaneous fermentation and lipid extraction.
