Lutein production from microalgae: A review

Fu, Yunlei; Wang, Yinan; Yi, Lanbo; Liu, Jin; Yang, Shufang; Liu, Bin; Chen, Feng; Sun, Han

doi:10.1016/j.biortech.2023.128875

Cited by 33 publications

(21 citation statements)

References 118 publications

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“…The energy transfer efficiency of the VCP complex, from carotenoids to chlorophyll a, can reach up to 90% [90]. The two carotenoids serve as the accessory pigments in light harvesting for Nannochloropsis [91]. β-carotene is another prominent pigment in Nannochloropsis.…”

Section: Carotenoid Biosynthesismentioning

confidence: 99%

Nannochloropsis as an Emerging Algal Chassis for Light-Driven Synthesis of Lipids and High-Value Products

Ye,

Liu,

et al. 2024

Marine Drugs

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In light of the escalating global energy crisis, microalgae have emerged as highly promising producers of biofuel and high-value products. Among these microalgae, Nannochloropsis has received significant attention due to its capacity to generate not only triacylglycerol (TAG) but also eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and valuable carotenoids. Recent advancements in genetic tools and the field of synthetic biology have revolutionized Nannochloropsis into a powerful biofactory. This comprehensive review provides an initial overview of the current state of cultivation and utilization of the Nannochloropsis genus. Subsequently, our review examines the metabolic pathways governing lipids and carotenoids, emphasizing strategies to enhance oil production and optimize carbon flux redirection toward target products. Additionally, we summarize the utilization of advanced genetic manipulation techniques in Nannochloropsis. Together, the insights presented in this review highlight the immense potential of Nannochloropsis as a valuable model for biofuels and synthetic biology. By effectively integrating genetic tools and metabolic engineering, the realization of this potential becomes increasingly feasible.

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Section: Carotenoid Biosynthesismentioning

confidence: 99%

Nannochloropsis as an Emerging Algal Chassis for Light-Driven Synthesis of Lipids and High-Value Products

Ye,

Liu,

et al. 2024

Marine Drugs

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“…In addition, lutein gene expression can be influenced by abiotic factors such as light, temperature, stress conditions, and carbon sources. In microalgae, chemical inhibitors may also regulate carotenogenesis [22][23][24]. The carbon molecules and energy required for lutein biosynthesis in microalgae come from the methylerythritol phosphate (MEP) and pentose phosphate pathways during heterotrophic nutrition.…”

Section: Lutein-a Key Molecule In Many Biological Systems: Roles and ...mentioning

confidence: 99%

Lutein from Microalgae: An Industrial Perspective of Its Production, Downstream Processing, and Market

Iwamoto,

Soccol,

Molina-Aulestia

et al. 2024

Fermentation

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Lutein, a yellow xanthophyll carotenoid, is increasingly recognized for its nutraceutical benefits, particularly in protecting the retina’s macula from age-related degeneration. Microalgae are a promising source of lutein, which can be a primary product or a coproduct in biorefineries. Certain microalgae exhibit lutein levels (up to 1.7%) surpassing those of common dietary sources like kale, spinach, and egg yolk (approximately 0.7–0.9%). Predominantly associated with photosystem II’s light-harvesting complex, lutein is crucial in photosynthesis and cellular defense. However, being quantitatively minor among cellular constituents, lutein necessitates specialized processing for efficient extraction. Although ubiquitous in microalgae, it is not as easily inducible as β-carotene and astaxanthin in Dunaliella salina and Haematococcus pluvialis, respectively. Currently, microalgal lutein production predominantly occurs at the bench scale, presenting challenges in scaling up. Factors like culture medium significantly influence biomass and lutein yields in industrial production, while downstream processing requires cost-effective, food-grade solvent extraction techniques. This review delves into contemporary methods and innovative progress in microalgal lutein production, emphasizing industrial-scale processes from biomass cultivation to final product formulation. A conceptual industrial process proposed in this review shows that two 10 m3 photobioreactors could produce 108 kg dry mass for Chlorella minutissima, which can be processed into approximately 616 g of lutein extract, or over 6000 capsules of finished nutraceutical daily. Despite lutein production via microalgae being in nascent stages at large scales, existing research provides a solid foundation for well-informed scale-up endeavors.

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“…[ 24 ], have also been reported as great sources of lutein. In fact, these microalgae are used in the form of food supplements [ 19 , 25 ]. There are, for instance, various products based on Chlorella sp., which are available on the online shopping market in the form of tablets or powder and produced by companies based all over the world.…”

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

Lutein Production and Extraction from Microalgae: Recent Insights and Bioactive Potential

Montuori,

Lima,

Marchese

et al. 2024

IJMS

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Microalgae have been reported to be excellent producers of bioactive molecules. Lutein is a pigment reported to have various beneficial effects for humans, and especially for eye well-being. In the current review, we summarize various methods that have been developed to optimize its extraction and bioactivities reported for human health. Several protective effects have been reported for lutein, including antioxidant, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, and cardioprotective activity. This review also reports attempts to increase lutein production by microalgae by changing culturing parameters or by using pilot-scale systems. Genetic engineering lutein production is also discussed. Considering the increasing aging of the worldwide population will create an increased need for lutein, a viable economic and eco-sustainable method to produce lutein is needed to face this market demand.

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Lutein production from microalgae: A review

Cited by 33 publications

References 118 publications

Nannochloropsis as an Emerging Algal Chassis for Light-Driven Synthesis of Lipids and High-Value Products

Nannochloropsis as an Emerging Algal Chassis for Light-Driven Synthesis of Lipids and High-Value Products

Lutein from Microalgae: An Industrial Perspective of Its Production, Downstream Processing, and Market

Lutein Production and Extraction from Microalgae: Recent Insights and Bioactive Potential

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