New Window of Opportunities for CvFAP photodecarboxylation by Violet Light Irradiation

Abstract

In this study, we describe a light-driven photocatalytic decarboxylation of palmitic acid and related fatty acids using Chlorella variabilis fatty acid photodecarboxylase (CvFAP). By utilizing violet LED light (50 W; 397 nm), we achieved a remarkable conversion efficiency of 99% within just 4 minutes, surpassing the previous 79% conversion achieved in 60 minutes using blue LED light (300 W; 439 nm). Importantly, the use of 50 W violet LED light also resulted with lower enzyme photoinactivation rate when compared to 300 W blue LED. Comparing the whole-cell biocatalyst with the enzymatic extract, we found that the former demonstrated superior catalytic performance and reduced susceptibility to photoinactivation. Furthermore, through fed-batch reactions using three pulses of 13 mM palmitic acid, we achieved the production of 39 mM of pentadecane within 1 hour, highlighting a promising strategy for enhanced productivity. These findings represent a significant advancement in CvFAP photodecarboxylation processes, utilizing an alternative light source, with potential implications for biofuel production.