Advances in Genetic Engineering in Improving Photosynthesis and Microalgal Productivity

Abstract

Even though sunlight energy far outweighs the energy required by human activities, its utilization is a key goal in the field of renewable energies. Microalgae have emerged as a promising new and sustainable feedstock for meeting rising food and feed demand. Because traditional methods of microalgal improvement are likely to have reached their limits, genetic engineering is expected to allow for further increases in the photosynthesis and productivity of microalgae. Understanding the mechanisms that control photosynthesis will enable researchers to identify targets for genetic engineering and, in the end, increase biomass yield, offsetting the costs of cultivation systems and downstream biomass processing. This review describes the molecular events that happen during photosynthesis and microalgal productivity through genetic engineering and discusses future strategies and the limitations of genetic engineering in microalgal productivity. We highlight the major achievements in manipulating the fundamental mechanisms of microalgal photosynthesis and biomass production, as well as promising approaches for making significant contributions to upcoming microalgal-based biotechnology.

Keywords: biomass production; genetic engineering; microalgae; ncRNAs; photosynthesis.

Figure 1

Strategies for increasing photosynthesis in microalgae. Red arrows represent overexpressed genes or exogenous genes, and green arrows represent down-regulated genes or knockout genes. Red crosses indicate an accelerative effect, and green minus signs indicate an inhibitory effect.