Characterization of a high lipid-producing thermotolerant marine photosynthetic pico alga from genus Picochlorum (Trebouxiophyceae)

Maja Mucko, Judit Padisák, Marija Gligora Udovič, Tamás Pálmai, Tihana Novak, Nikola Medić, Blaženka Gašparović, Petra Peharec Štefanić, Sandi Orlić, Zrinka Ljubešić

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

11 Scopus citations

Abstract

A new marine strain of picoplanktonic algae, PMPFPPE4, was isolated from a mixed net-phytoplankton sample taken from the upper euphotic layer of the southeastern Adriatic Sea. Evaluation of the new strain included morphological investigation (by light and electron microscopy), phylogenetic analysis (utilizing plastid 16S rRNA and nuclear 18S rRNA genes), and physiological characterization (screening of pigment/lipid composition and capturing photosynthesis measurements). The new strain was proven to belong to the genus Picochlorum and the lipid composition revealed an unexpected accumulation of triacylglycerols, indicating an evolutionary adaptation for growth under unfavourable conditions. In addition, lipid remodelling in the exponential to stationary growth phase was characterized by an increased share of membrane-forming digalactosyldiacylglycerols and phosphatidylcholines. Maximum photosynthetic activity measured was at 30°C, but the most rapid increase of photosynthetic activity was at lower temperatures (15–20°C). Moreover, the thermotolerant strain did not exhibit photoinhibition below 40°C and survived a one-month cultivation period in complete darkness. The strain’s survival in low light and dark conditions suggests a potential shift from autotrophy to mixotrophy under unfavourable growth conditions. Thus, the unique physiological attributes represented by a high growth rate, thermotolerance, phototolerance and high triacylglycerol synthesis may render the strain highly attractive for biofuel production and growth in large outdoor systems.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)384-399
Number of pages16
JournalEuropean Journal of Phycology
Volume55
Issue number4
DOIs
StatePublished - 1 Oct 2020
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Morphology
  • Picochlorum
  • photosynthetic picoeukaryotes
  • phylogeny
  • physiology

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Aquatic Science
  • Plant Science

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Characterization of a high lipid-producing thermotolerant marine photosynthetic pico alga from genus Picochlorum (Trebouxiophyceae)'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this