Dynamics of Chloroplast metabolism in Scenedesmus obliquus
Microalgae are promising hosts for industrial biotechnology applications given their capacity to convert CO 2
into valuable products. For commercialization, the productivity should be further increased and one of the
barriers for this is a lack of fundamental understanding of algal growth and metabolism, especially in relation to
the different compartments.
The cell consists of several organelles with their own specific metabolic processes. For example, the chloroplast
is the compartment where photosynthesis occur. Although this organelle is vital for microalgae, most of the
current studies focus on the whole cell. In our research we look to examine chloroplast metabolism, and how it
interacts with other organelles, as a function of stress conditions on the metabolite level. When the
environment is shifted, the cell needs to respond in an adequate manner to ensure survival. For this, proper
communications and interactions are essential both at the cell and organelle level.
Aim
In this research project, we investigate metabolic processes at the organelle level. In particular, we will
examine the chloroplast, the organelle where photosynthesis as well as other relevant metabolic routes take
place. Next, we will investigate metabolic interactions of the chloroplast with other cellular compartments,
such as mitochondria and cytoplasm.
Approach
We started characterizing microalgal behaviour under 'normal', non-stressed conditions with initial focus on
their circadian rhythm. When grown under daily cycles of light and dark, the circadian clock provides organisms
with an internal estimate of the external time. This in turn controls and schedules metabolic and physiological
activities at the appropriate time of the day. Having a better understanding of the compartmentalization of
metabolism will help us improve our metabolic models and facilitate successful metabolic engineering to
increase productivity.
Acknowledgments
This research project is supported by the Mexican National Council for Science and Technology (Consejo
Nacional de Ciencia y Tecnología – CONACYT), Scholar 218586/Scholarship 314173. GM Leon Saiki is part of the
“Doctores Jóvenes para el Desarrollo Estratégico Institucional” program by the Universidad Autónoma de
Sinaloa.
Start project: 1-Sep-2013
End project: 31-Aug-2017
Partners: Bioprocess Engineering
Supervisors: Douwe van der Veen, Dirk Martens
Promotor: : René Wijffels