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Sun K, Meesapyodsuk D, Qiu X. Biosynthetic mechanisms of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids in microalgae. J Biol Chem 2024; 300:107699. [PMID: 39173949 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2024.107699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2024] [Revised: 08/08/2024] [Accepted: 08/12/2024] [Indexed: 08/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Marine microalgae are the primary producers of ω3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), such as octadecapentaenoic acid (OPA, 18:5n-3) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA, 22:6n-3) for food chains. However, the biosynthetic mechanisms of these PUFAs in the algae remain elusive. To study how these fatty acids are synthesized in microalgae, a series of radiolabeled precursors were used to trace the biosynthetic process of PUFAs in Emiliania huxleyi. Feeding the alga with 14C-labeled acetic acid in a time course showed that OPA was solely found in glycoglycerolipids such as monogalactosyldiacylglycerol (MGDG) and digalactosyldiacylglycerol (DGDG) synthesized plastidically by sequential desaturations while DHA was exclusively found in phospholipids synthesized extraplastidically. Feeding the alga with 14C-labeled α-linolenic acid (ALA), linoleic acid (LA), and oleic acid (OA) showed that DHA was synthesized extraplastidically from fed ALA and LA, but not from OA, implying that the aerobic pathway of DHA biosynthesis is incomplete with missing a Δ12 desaturation step. The in vitro enzymatic assays with 14C-labeled malonyl-CoA showed that DHA was synthesized from acetic acid by a PUFA synthase. These results provide the first and conclusive biochemistry evidence that OPA is synthesized by a plastidic aerobic pathway through sequential desaturations with the last step of Δ3 desaturation, while DHA is synthesized by an extraplastidic anaerobic pathway catalyzed by a PUFA synthase in the microalga.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaiwen Sun
- Department of Food & Bioproduct Sciences, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
| | | | - Xiao Qiu
- Department of Food & Bioproduct Sciences, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada.
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2
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Meesapyodsuk D, Sun K, Qiu X. Structural and functional analysis of plant ELO-like elongase for fatty acid elongation. PLANT MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2024; 114:90. [PMID: 39172265 DOI: 10.1007/s11103-024-01490-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2024] [Accepted: 07/16/2024] [Indexed: 08/23/2024]
Abstract
ELO-like elongase is a condensing enzyme elongating long chain fatty acids in eukaryotes. Eranthis hyemalis ELO-like elongase (EhELO1) is the first higher plant ELO-type elongase that is highly active in elongating a wide range of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) and some monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs). This study attempted using domain swapping and site-directed mutagenesis of EhELO1 and EhELO2, a close homologue of EhELO1 but with no apparent elongase activity, to elucidate the structural determinants critical for catalytic activity and substrate specificity. Domain swapping analysis of the two showed that subdomain B in the C-terminal half of EhELO1 is essential for MUFA elongation while subdomain C in the C-terminal half of EhELO1 is essential for both PUFA and MUFA elongations, implying these regions are critical in defining the architecture of the substrate tunnel for substrate specificity. Site-directed mutagenesis showed that the glycine at position 220 in the subdomain C plays a key role in differentiating the function of the two elongases. In addition, valine at 161 and cysteine at 165 in subdomain A also play critical roles in defining the architecture of the deep substrate tunnel, thereby contributing significantly to the acceptance of, and interaction with primer substrates.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kaiwen Sun
- Department of Food & Bioproduct Sciences, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Canada
| | - Xiao Qiu
- National Research Council Canada, Saskatoon, Canada.
- Department of Food & Bioproduct Sciences, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Canada.
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3
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Mariam I, Bettiga M, Rova U, Christakopoulos P, Matsakas L, Patel A. Ameliorating microalgal OMEGA production using omics platforms. TRENDS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2024; 29:799-813. [PMID: 38350829 DOI: 10.1016/j.tplants.2024.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2023] [Revised: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 02/15/2024]
Abstract
Over the past decade, the focus on omega (ω)-3 fatty acids from microalgae has intensified due to their diverse health benefits. Bioprocess optimization has notably increased ω-3 fatty acid yields, yet understanding of the genetic architecture and metabolic pathways of high-yielding strains remains limited. Leveraging genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics tools can provide vital system-level insights into native ω-3 fatty acid-producing microalgae, further boosting production. In this review, we explore 'omics' studies uncovering alternative pathways for ω-3 fatty acid synthesis and genome-wide regulation in response to cultivation parameters. We also emphasize potential targets to fine-tune in order to enhance yield. Despite progress, an integrated omics platform is essential to overcome current bottlenecks in optimizing the process for ω-3 fatty acid production from microalgae, advancing this crucial field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iqra Mariam
- Biochemical Process Engineering, Division of Chemical Engineering, Department of Civil, Environmental, and Natural Resources Engineering, Luleå University of Technology, SE-971 87 Luleå, Sweden
| | - Maurizio Bettiga
- Department of Life Sciences - LIFE, Division of Industrial Biotechnology, Chalmers University of Technology, SE-412 96 Gothenburg, Sweden; Innovation Unit, Italbiotec Srl Società Benefit, Milan, Italy
| | - Ulrika Rova
- Biochemical Process Engineering, Division of Chemical Engineering, Department of Civil, Environmental, and Natural Resources Engineering, Luleå University of Technology, SE-971 87 Luleå, Sweden
| | - Paul Christakopoulos
- Biochemical Process Engineering, Division of Chemical Engineering, Department of Civil, Environmental, and Natural Resources Engineering, Luleå University of Technology, SE-971 87 Luleå, Sweden
| | - Leonidas Matsakas
- Biochemical Process Engineering, Division of Chemical Engineering, Department of Civil, Environmental, and Natural Resources Engineering, Luleå University of Technology, SE-971 87 Luleå, Sweden
| | - Alok Patel
- Biochemical Process Engineering, Division of Chemical Engineering, Department of Civil, Environmental, and Natural Resources Engineering, Luleå University of Technology, SE-971 87 Luleå, Sweden.
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Abstract
In contrast to traditional breeding, which relies on the identification of mutants, metabolic engineering provides a new platform to modify the oil composition in oil crops for improved nutrition. By altering endogenous genes involved in the biosynthesis pathways, it is possible to modify edible plant oils to increase the content of desired components or reduce the content of undesirable components. However, introduction of novel nutritional components such as omega-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids needs transgenic expression of novel genes in crops. Despite formidable challenges, significant progress in engineering nutritionally improved edible plant oils has recently been achieved, with some commercial products now on the market.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Qing Liu
- CSIRO Agriculture & Food, Canberra, Australia;
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5
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Chen B, Wang F, Xie X, Liu H, Liu D, Ma L, Xiao G, Wang Q. Functional analysis of the dehydratase domains of the PUFA synthase from Emiliania huxleyi in Escherichia coli and Arabidopsis thaliana. BIOTECHNOLOGY FOR BIOFUELS AND BIOPRODUCTS 2022; 15:123. [PMID: 36380342 PMCID: PMC9667614 DOI: 10.1186/s13068-022-02223-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2022] [Accepted: 11/04/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) synthase is a multi-domain mega-enzyme that effectively synthesizes a series of PUFAs in marine microorganisms. The dehydratase (DH) domain of a PUFA synthase plays a crucial role in double bond positioning in fatty acids. Sequencing results of the coccolithophore Emiliania huxleyi (E. huxleyi, Eh) indicated that this species contains a PUFA synthase with multiple DH domains. Therefore, the current study, sought to define the functions of these DH domains (EhDHs), by cloning and overexpressing the genes encoding FabA-like EhDHs in Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Arabidopsis thaliana (A. thaliana). RESULTS A complementation test showed that the two FabA-like DH domains could restore DH function in a temperature-sensitive (Ts) mutant. Meanwhile, overexpression of FabA-like EhDH1 and EhDH2 domains increased the production of unsaturated fatty acids (UFAs) in recombinant E. coli by 43.5-32.9%, respectively. Site-directed mutagenesis analysis confirmed the authenticity of active-site residues in these domains. Moreover, the expression of tandem EhDH1-DH2 in A. thaliana altered the fatty acids content, seed weight, and germination rate. CONCLUSIONS The two FabA-like DH domains in the E. huxleyi PUFA synthase function as 3-hydroxyacyl-acyl carrier protein dehydratase in E. coli. The expression of these domains in E. coli and A. thaliana can alter the fatty acid profile in E. coli and increase the seed lipid content and germination rate in A. thaliana. Hence, introduction of DH domains controlling the dehydration process of fatty acid biosynthesis in plants might offer a new strategy to increase oil production in oilseed plants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bihan Chen
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Lingnan Specialty Food Science and Technology, Zhongkai University of Agriculture and Engineering, Guangzhou, China
- College of Light Industry and Food, Zhongkai University of Agriculture and Engineering, Guangzhou, China
| | - Feng Wang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Lingnan Specialty Food Science and Technology, Zhongkai University of Agriculture and Engineering, Guangzhou, China
- College of Light Industry and Food, Zhongkai University of Agriculture and Engineering, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xi Xie
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Lingnan Specialty Food Science and Technology, Zhongkai University of Agriculture and Engineering, Guangzhou, China.
- College of Light Industry and Food, Zhongkai University of Agriculture and Engineering, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Huifan Liu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Lingnan Specialty Food Science and Technology, Zhongkai University of Agriculture and Engineering, Guangzhou, China
- College of Light Industry and Food, Zhongkai University of Agriculture and Engineering, Guangzhou, China
| | - Dongjie Liu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Lingnan Specialty Food Science and Technology, Zhongkai University of Agriculture and Engineering, Guangzhou, China
- College of Light Industry and Food, Zhongkai University of Agriculture and Engineering, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lukai Ma
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Lingnan Specialty Food Science and Technology, Zhongkai University of Agriculture and Engineering, Guangzhou, China
- College of Light Industry and Food, Zhongkai University of Agriculture and Engineering, Guangzhou, China
| | - Gengsheng Xiao
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Lingnan Specialty Food Science and Technology, Zhongkai University of Agriculture and Engineering, Guangzhou, China
- College of Light Industry and Food, Zhongkai University of Agriculture and Engineering, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qin Wang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Lingnan Specialty Food Science and Technology, Zhongkai University of Agriculture and Engineering, Guangzhou, China
- College of Light Industry and Food, Zhongkai University of Agriculture and Engineering, Guangzhou, China
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Remize M, Planchon F, Garnier M, Loh AN, Le Grand F, Bideau A, Lambert C, Corvaisier R, Volety A, Soudant P. A 13CO 2 Enrichment Experiment to Study the Synthesis Pathways of Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids of the Haptophyte Tisochrysis lutea. Mar Drugs 2021; 20:md20010022. [PMID: 35049877 PMCID: PMC8779623 DOI: 10.3390/md20010022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2021] [Revised: 12/03/2021] [Accepted: 12/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The production of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) in Tisochrysis lutea was studied using the gradual incorporation of a 13C-enriched isotopic marker, 13CO2, for 24 h during the exponential growth of the algae. The 13C enrichment of eleven fatty acids was followed to understand the synthetic pathways the most likely to form the essential polyunsaturated fatty acids 20:5n-3 (EPA) and 22:6n-3 (DHA) in T. lutea. The fatty acids 16:0, 18:1n-9 + 18:3n-3, 18:2n-6, and 22:5n-6 were the most enriched in 13C. On the contrary, 18:4n-3 and 18:5n-3 were the least enriched in 13C after long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids such as 20:5n-3 or 22:5n-3. The algae appeared to use different routes in parallel to form its polyunsaturated fatty acids. The use of the PKS pathway was hypothesized for polyunsaturated fatty acids with n-6 configuration (such as 22:5n-6) but might also exist for n-3 PUFA (especially 20:5n-3). With regard to the conventional n-3 PUFA pathway, Δ6 desaturation of 18:3n-3 appeared to be the most limiting step for T. lutea, “stopping” at the synthesis of 18:4n-3 and 18:5n-3. These two fatty acids were hypothesized to not undergo any further reaction of elongation and desaturation after being formed and were therefore considered “end-products”. To circumvent this limiting synthetic route, Tisochrysis lutea seemed to have developed an alternative route via Δ8 desaturation to produce longer chain fatty acids such as 20:5n-3 and 22:5n-3. 22:6n-3 presented a lower enrichment and appeared to be produced by a combination of different pathways: the conventional n-3 PUFA pathway by desaturation of 22:5n-3, the alternative route of ω-3 desaturase using 22:5n-6 as precursor, and possibly the PKS pathway. In this study, PKS synthesis looked particularly effective for producing long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids. The rate of enrichment of these compounds hypothetically synthesized by PKS is remarkably fast, making undetectable the 13C incorporation into their precursors. Finally, we identified a protein cluster gathering PKS sequences of proteins that are hypothesized allowing n-3 PUFA synthesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marine Remize
- UMR 6539 LEMAR, CNRS, IRD, Ifremer, University of Brest, 29280 Plouzane, France; (F.P.); (F.L.G.); (A.B.); (C.L.); (R.C.)
- GREENSEA, Promenade du Sergeant Navarro, 34140 Meze, France
- Correspondence: (M.R.); (P.S.)
| | - Frédéric Planchon
- UMR 6539 LEMAR, CNRS, IRD, Ifremer, University of Brest, 29280 Plouzane, France; (F.P.); (F.L.G.); (A.B.); (C.L.); (R.C.)
| | - Matthieu Garnier
- PBA, Ifremer, Rue de l’Ile d’Yeu, BP 21105, CEDEX 03, 44311 Nantes, France;
| | - Ai Ning Loh
- Center for Marine Science, Department of Earth and Ocean Sciences, University of North Carolina Wilmington, 5600 Marvin K. Moss Ln, Wilmington, NC 28403, USA;
| | - Fabienne Le Grand
- UMR 6539 LEMAR, CNRS, IRD, Ifremer, University of Brest, 29280 Plouzane, France; (F.P.); (F.L.G.); (A.B.); (C.L.); (R.C.)
| | - Antoine Bideau
- UMR 6539 LEMAR, CNRS, IRD, Ifremer, University of Brest, 29280 Plouzane, France; (F.P.); (F.L.G.); (A.B.); (C.L.); (R.C.)
| | - Christophe Lambert
- UMR 6539 LEMAR, CNRS, IRD, Ifremer, University of Brest, 29280 Plouzane, France; (F.P.); (F.L.G.); (A.B.); (C.L.); (R.C.)
| | - Rudolph Corvaisier
- UMR 6539 LEMAR, CNRS, IRD, Ifremer, University of Brest, 29280 Plouzane, France; (F.P.); (F.L.G.); (A.B.); (C.L.); (R.C.)
| | - Aswani Volety
- 50 Campus Drive, Elon University, Elon, NC 27244, USA;
| | - Philippe Soudant
- UMR 6539 LEMAR, CNRS, IRD, Ifremer, University of Brest, 29280 Plouzane, France; (F.P.); (F.L.G.); (A.B.); (C.L.); (R.C.)
- Correspondence: (M.R.); (P.S.)
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7
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Blasio M, Balzano S. Fatty Acids Derivatives From Eukaryotic Microalgae, Pathways and Potential Applications. Front Microbiol 2021; 12:718933. [PMID: 34659147 PMCID: PMC8511707 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2021.718933] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2021] [Accepted: 08/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The exploitation of petrochemical hydrocarbons is compromising ecosystem and human health and biotechnological research is increasingly focusing on sustainable materials from plants and, to a lesser extent, microalgae. Fatty acid derivatives include, among others, oxylipins, hydroxy fatty acids, diols, alkenones, and wax esters. They can occur as storage lipids or cell wall components and possess, in some cases, striking cosmeceutical, pharmaceutical, and nutraceutical properties. In addition, long chain (>20) fatty acid derivatives mostly contain highly reduced methylenic carbons and exhibit a combustion enthalpy higher than that of C14 - 20 fatty acids, being potentially suitable as biofuel candidates. Finally, being the building blocks of cell wall components, some fatty acid derivatives might also be used as starters for the industrial synthesis of different polymers. Within this context, microalgae can be a promising source of fatty acid derivatives and, in contrast with terrestrial plants, do not require arable land neither clean water for their growth. Microalgal mass culturing for the extraction and the exploitation of fatty acid derivatives, along with products that are relevant in nutraceutics (e.g., polyunsaturated fatty acids), might contribute in increasing the viability of microalgal biotechnologies. This review explores fatty acids derivatives from microalgae with applications in the field of renewable energies, biomaterials and pharmaceuticals. Nannochloropsis spp. (Eustigmatophyceae, Heterokontophyta) are particularly interesting for biotechnological applications since they grow at faster rates than many other species and possess hydroxy fatty acids and aliphatic cell wall polymers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina Blasio
- Department of Marine Biotechnologies, Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn Napoli (SZN), Naples, Italy
| | - Sergio Balzano
- Department of Marine Biotechnologies, Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn Napoli (SZN), Naples, Italy
- Department of Marine Microbiology and Biogeochemistry, Royal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research (NIOZ), Den Burg (Texel), Netherlands
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8
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Shi Y, Liu M, Pan Y, Hu H, Liu J. Δ6 Fatty Acid Elongase is Involved in Eicosapentaenoic Acid Biosynthesis Via the ω6 Pathway in the Marine Alga Nannochloropsis oceanica. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2021; 69:9837-9848. [PMID: 34414763 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.1c04192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Nannochloropsis oceanica represents a promising sunlight-driven alga for producing eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA, 20:5Δ5,8,11,14,17), a value-added very long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acid (VLC-PUFA). Here, we unraveled the function and roles of a Δ6 fatty acid elongase (NoΔ6-FAE) in N. oceanica. Heterologous expression of NoΔ6-FAE in yeast confirmed its function in elongating C18 Δ6-PUFAs rather than others. Subcellular localization experiments suggested that NoΔ6-FAE resides in the chloroplast endoplasmic reticulum. NoΔ6-FAE knockdown attenuated C20:3Δ8,11,14, C20:4Δ5,8,11,14, and EPA yet enhanced C18:3Δ6,9,12, leading to overall decreases in total fatty acids, triacylglycerol, diacylglycerol, free fatty acids, and polar membrane lipids. In contrast, NoΔ6-FAE overexpression in N. oceanica caused nearly opposite phenotypes. Moreover, N. oceanica lacked detectable C18:3Δ9,12,15, C18:4Δ6,9,12,15, and C20:4Δ8,11,14,17 even under NoΔ6-FAE knockdown or overexpression. Our results reveal the involvement of NoΔ6-FAE in EPA biosynthesis via the ω6 pathway in N. oceanica and highlight the potential of manipulating NoΔ6-FAE for improved lipid production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Shi
- Laboratory for Algae Biotechnology & Innovation, College of Engineering, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Meijing Liu
- Laboratory for Algae Biotechnology & Innovation, College of Engineering, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Yufang Pan
- Key Laboratory of Algal Biology, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430072, China
| | - Hanhua Hu
- Key Laboratory of Algal Biology, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430072, China
| | - Jin Liu
- Laboratory for Algae Biotechnology & Innovation, College of Engineering, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
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9
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Abstract
Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) is an omega-3 fatty acid which is an essential nutrient for both humans and animals. This review examines the global need for EPA, both in human nutrition and aquaculture. The potential shortfall in supply of this important nutrient as well as sustainability issues with wild-caught fish have generated increased interest into alternative sources of EPA. Various approaches are summarized, including heterotrophic production and the use of genetically modified microorganisms and plants. Studies on photoautotrophic production of EPA are extensively reviewed. Widely used species for large-scale production of EPA includes Phaeodactylum tricornutum and Nannochloropsis due to their robustness and relatively high growth rates and EPA content (typically 5% of dry biomass). Approaches for large-scale production have also been reviewed. Closed reactors like flat panels, tubular reactors and bubble columns may be the most suitable due to their high productivity. However, there is no agreement in the literature as to which design generates the lowest cost of production. The economics of the process has also been examined. The best estimates for large-scale (100 hectare) plants give EPA prices of the order 39-90 USD per kilogram. This is approximately ten times higher than the price of EPA derived from fish oil. Potential avenues for lowering the cost are highlighted, along with the need to better understand the advantages and disadvantages of different EPA production methods from a more holistic perspective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenjia Gu
- School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - John M Kavanagh
- School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Dale D McClure
- School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
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10
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Heterologous Production of Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids in E. coli Using Δ5-Desaturase Gene from Microalga Isochrysis Sp. Appl Biochem Biotechnol 2020; 193:869-883. [PMID: 33200268 DOI: 10.1007/s12010-020-03460-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2020] [Accepted: 11/08/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and arachidonic acid (ARA) are long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) that play a significant role in human growth and development, which deficiency can trigger several metabolic-related diseases. Since the availability of PUFA sources is limited, there arises a need to explore alternative sources. Therefore, the present study aimed to investigate whether an Escherichia coli which are engineered with Δ5Des-Iso gene isolated from Isochrysis sp. could be utilized to synthesize PUFAs. Full-length gene Δ5Des-Iso (1149 bp) was isolated from Isochrysis sp. that encodes 382 amino acids and identified as Δ5-desatruase gene using different bioinformatic analysis. Heterologous gene expression was carried out in E. coli having Δ5Des-Iso with precursor fatty acids. The Δ5Des-Iso produced novel fatty acids of EPA (ω-3) and ARA (ω-6) as respective products were identified by GC-MS. Gene expression and PUFA synthesis in E. coli were optimized by temperature, time, and concentrations of precursor fatty acid substrates. Δ5Des-Iso RNA transcript level was inversely proportional to the time and fatty acid synthesis. And, the significant production of EPA (4.1 mg/g) and ARA (8.3 mg/g) in total fatty acids was observed in E. coli grown at 37 °C for 24 h with 25 μM of external fatty acid substrate as an optimum growth conditions. E. coli could be used as alternative organism to synthesis PUFAs and widely applicable in many nutraceuticals and pharmaceuticals industry for human use.
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11
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Cui J, Chen H, Tang X, Zhao J, Zhang H, Chen YQ, Chen W. Δ6 fatty acid desaturases in polyunsaturated fatty acid biosynthesis: insights into the evolution, function with substrate specificities and biotechnological use. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2020; 104:9947-9963. [PMID: 33094384 DOI: 10.1007/s00253-020-10958-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2020] [Revised: 10/05/2020] [Accepted: 10/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Δ6 fatty acid desaturases (FADS6) have different substrate specificities that impact the ratio of omega-6/omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, which are involved in regulating multiple signalling pathways associated with various diseases. For decades, FADS6 with different substrate specificities have been characterized and the functions of these crucial enzymes have been investigated, while it remains enigmatic that the substrate specificities of FADS6 from various species have a huge difference. This review summarizes the substrate specificities of FADS6 in different species and reveals the underlying relationship. Further evaluation of biochemical properties has revealed that the FADS6 prefer linoleic acid that is more hydrophilic and stable. Domain-swapping and site-directed mutagenesis have been employed to delineate the regions and sites that affect the substrate specificities of FADS6. These analyses improve our understanding of the functions of FADS6 and offer information for the discovery of novel biological resources. KEY POINTS: • Outline of the excavation and identification of Δ6 fatty acid desaturases. • Overview of methods used to determine the pivotal resides of desaturases. • Application of substrate properties to generate specific fatty acids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Cui
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Technology, School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, 214122, People's Republic of China.,School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, 214122, People's Republic of China
| | - Haiqin Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Technology, School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, 214122, People's Republic of China. .,School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, 214122, People's Republic of China.
| | - Xin Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Technology, School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, 214122, People's Republic of China.,School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, 214122, People's Republic of China
| | - Jianxin Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Technology, School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, 214122, People's Republic of China.,School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, 214122, People's Republic of China
| | - Hao Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Technology, School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, 214122, People's Republic of China.,School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, 214122, People's Republic of China.,National Engineering Research Center for Functional Food, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, 214122, People's Republic of China.,Wuxi Translational Medicine Research Center and Jiangsu Translational Medicine Research Institute Wuxi Branch, Wuxi, 214122, People's Republic of China
| | - Yong Q Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Technology, School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, 214122, People's Republic of China.,School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, 214122, People's Republic of China.,Department of Cancer Biology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, 5, Winston-Salem, NC, 27127, USA
| | - Wei Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Technology, School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, 214122, People's Republic of China.,School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, 214122, People's Republic of China.,National Engineering Research Center for Functional Food, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, 214122, People's Republic of China.,Beijing Innovation Center of Food Nutrition and Human Health, Beijing Technology and Business University (BTBU), Beijing, 100048, People's Republic of China
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12
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Cobos M, Pérez S, Braga J, Vargas-Arana G, Flores L, Paredes JD, Maddox JD, Marapara JL, Castro JC. Nutritional evaluation and human health-promoting potential of compounds biosynthesized by native microalgae from the Peruvian Amazon. World J Microbiol Biotechnol 2020; 36:121. [PMID: 32681243 DOI: 10.1007/s11274-020-02896-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2019] [Accepted: 07/12/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
A plausible strategy to mitigate socioeconomic problems in the Peruvian Amazon is through the sustainable exploitation of biodiversity resources, such as native microalgae. Several studies worldwide affirm that these microorganisms are excellent sources of higher value products for human nutrition and possess health-promoting biochemicals, but these attributes are unknown for the native microalgae of Peru. Therefore, the aim of this investigation was to evaluate the nutritional and human health-promoting potential of compounds biosynthesized by native microalgae from the Peruvian Amazon. Ten native microalgae strains of the groups cyanobacteria and chlorophyta were cultured in BG-11 medium and their biomass harvested and dried. Standardized methods were then used to determine proximate composition, fatty acids and amino acids composition, antioxidant activity, and total phenolic content. All ten microalgae strains produce primary nutrients, the entire spectrum of essential amino acids, essential fatty acids, and 3 of the 10 microalgae strains produced eisosapentaenoic acid. Additionally, all microalgae strains exhibited antioxidant activities and contained phenolic compounds. In conclusion, native microalgae strains from the Peruvian Amazon analyzed in this study possess the ability to biosynthesize and accumulate several nutrients and compounds with human health-promoting potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marianela Cobos
- Laboratorio de Biotecnología y Bioenergética, Universidad Científica del Perú (UCP), Iquitos, Peru.
| | - Sheyla Pérez
- Laboratorio de Biotecnología y Bioenergética, Universidad Científica del Perú (UCP), Iquitos, Peru
| | - Janeth Braga
- Departamento Académico de Ciencias Biomédicas y Biotecnología, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional de la Amazonia Peruana (UNAP), Iquitos, Peru.,Unidad Especializada de Biotecnología, Centro de Investigación de Recursos Naturales de la Amazonía (CIRNA), Universidad Nacional de la Amazonia Peruana (UNAP), Iquitos, Peru
| | - Gabriel Vargas-Arana
- Laboratorio de Química de Productos Naturales, Instituto de Investigaciones de la Amazonía Peruana (IIAP), Iquitos, Peru
| | - Leenin Flores
- Laboratorio de Biotecnología Acuática, Instituto del Mar del Perú (IMARPE), Lima, Peru
| | - Jae D Paredes
- Laboratorio de Biotecnología y Bioenergética, Universidad Científica del Perú (UCP), Iquitos, Peru
| | - J Dylan Maddox
- Laboratorio de Biotecnología y Bioenergética, Universidad Científica del Perú (UCP), Iquitos, Peru.,Pritzker Laboratory for Molecular Systematics and Evolution, Field Museum of Natural History, 1400 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago, IL, 60605, USA.,Environmental Sciences, American Public University System, Charles Town, WV, 25414, USA
| | - Jorge L Marapara
- Departamento Académico de Ciencias Biomédicas y Biotecnología, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional de la Amazonia Peruana (UNAP), Iquitos, Peru.,Unidad Especializada de Biotecnología, Centro de Investigación de Recursos Naturales de la Amazonía (CIRNA), Universidad Nacional de la Amazonia Peruana (UNAP), Iquitos, Peru
| | - Juan C Castro
- Departamento Académico de Ciencias Biomédicas y Biotecnología, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional de la Amazonia Peruana (UNAP), Iquitos, Peru. .,Unidad Especializada de Biotecnología, Centro de Investigación de Recursos Naturales de la Amazonía (CIRNA), Universidad Nacional de la Amazonia Peruana (UNAP), Iquitos, Peru.
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13
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Molecular mechanisms for biosynthesis and assembly of nutritionally important very long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids in microorganisms. Prog Lipid Res 2020; 79:101047. [DOI: 10.1016/j.plipres.2020.101047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2020] [Revised: 05/29/2020] [Accepted: 06/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
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14
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Study of Synthesis Pathways of the Essential Polyunsaturated Fatty Acid 20:5n-3 in the Diatom Chaetoceros Muelleri Using 13C-Isotope Labeling. Biomolecules 2020; 10:biom10050797. [PMID: 32455747 PMCID: PMC7277837 DOI: 10.3390/biom10050797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2020] [Revised: 05/15/2020] [Accepted: 05/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The present study sought to characterize the synthesis pathways producing the essential polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) 20:5n-3 (EPA). For this, the incorporation of 13C was experimentally monitored into 10 fatty acids (FA) during the growth of the diatom Chaetoceros muelleri for 24 h. Chaetoceros muelleri preferentially and quickly incorporated 13C into C18 PUFAs such as 18:2n-6 and 18:3n-6 as well as 16:0 and 16:1n-7, which were thus highly 13C-enriched. During the experiment, 20:5n-3 and 16:3n-4 were among the least-enriched fatty acids. The calculation of the enrichment percentage ratio of a fatty acid B over its suspected precursor A allowed us to suggest that the diatom produced 20:5n-3 (EPA) by a combination between the n-3 (via 18:4n-3) and n-6 (via 18:3n-6 and 20:4n-6) synthesis pathways as well as the alternative ω-3 desaturase pathway (via 20:4n-6). In addition, as FA from polar lipids were generally more enriched in 13C than FA from neutral lipids, particularly for 18:1n-9, 18:2n-6 and 18:3n-6, the existence of acyl-editing mechanisms and connectivity between polar and neutral lipid fatty acid pools were also hypothesized. Because 16:3n-4 and 20:5n-3 presented the same concentration and enrichment dynamics, a structural and metabolic link was proposed between these two PUFAs in C. muelleri.
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15
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Diao J, Song X, Guo T, Wang F, Chen L, Zhang W. Cellular engineering strategies toward sustainable omega-3 long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids production: State of the art and perspectives. Biotechnol Adv 2020; 40:107497. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biotechadv.2019.107497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2019] [Revised: 12/06/2019] [Accepted: 12/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
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16
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Li-Beisson Y, Thelen JJ, Fedosejevs E, Harwood JL. The lipid biochemistry of eukaryotic algae. Prog Lipid Res 2019; 74:31-68. [PMID: 30703388 DOI: 10.1016/j.plipres.2019.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 175] [Impact Index Per Article: 35.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2018] [Revised: 01/22/2019] [Accepted: 01/23/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Algal lipid metabolism fascinates both scientists and entrepreneurs due to the large diversity of fatty acyl structures that algae produce. Algae have therefore long been studied as sources of genes for novel fatty acids; and, due to their superior biomass productivity, algae are also considered a potential feedstock for biofuels. However, a major issue in a commercially viable "algal oil-to-biofuel" industry is the high production cost, because most algal species only produce large amounts of oils after being exposed to stress conditions. Recent studies have therefore focused on the identification of factors involved in TAG metabolism, on the subcellular organization of lipid pathways, and on interactions between organelles. This has been accompanied by the development of genetic/genomic and synthetic biological tools not only for the reference green alga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii but also for Nannochloropsis spp. and Phaeodactylum tricornutum. Advances in our understanding of enzymes and regulatory proteins of acyl lipid biosynthesis and turnover are described herein with a focus on carbon and energetic aspects. We also summarize how changes in environmental factors can impact lipid metabolism and describe present and potential industrial uses of algal lipids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yonghua Li-Beisson
- Aix-Marseille Univ, CEA, CNRS, BIAM, UMR7265, CEA Cadarache, Saint-Paul-lez Durance F-13108, France.
| | - Jay J Thelen
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Missouri, Christopher S. Bond Life Sciences Center, Columbia, MO 65211, United States.
| | - Eric Fedosejevs
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Missouri, Christopher S. Bond Life Sciences Center, Columbia, MO 65211, United States.
| | - John L Harwood
- School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff CF10 3AX, UK.
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17
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Functional characterization and substrate specificity analysis of Δ6-desaturase from marine microalga Isochrysis sp. Biotechnol Lett 2017; 40:577-584. [DOI: 10.1007/s10529-017-2501-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2017] [Accepted: 12/19/2017] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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18
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Jang SH, Jeong HJ, Kwon JE. High contents of eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid in the mixotrophic dinoflagellate Paragymnodinium shiwhaense and identification of putative omega-3 biosynthetic genes. ALGAL RES 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.algal.2017.06.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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19
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Xia F, Li X, Li X, Zheng D, Sun Q, Liu J, Li Y, Hua J, Qi B. Elevation of the Yields of Very Long Chain Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids via Minimal Codon Optimization of Two Key Biosynthetic Enzymes. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0158103. [PMID: 27433934 PMCID: PMC4951033 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0158103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2016] [Accepted: 06/12/2016] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA, 20:5Δ5,8,11,14,17) and Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA, 22:6Δ4,7,10,13,16,19) are nutritionally beneficial to human health. Transgenic production of EPA and DHA in oilseed crops by transferring genes originating from lower eukaryotes, such as microalgae and fungi, has been attempted in recent years. However, the low yield of EPA and DHA produced in these transgenic crops is a major hurdle for the commercialization of these transgenics. Many factors can negatively affect transgene expression, leading to a low level of converted fatty acid products. Among these the codon bias between the transgene donor and the host crop is one of the major contributing factors. Therefore, we carried out codon optimization of a fatty acid delta-6 desaturase gene PinD6 from the fungus Phytophthora infestans, and a delta-9 elongase gene, IgASE1 from the microalga Isochrysis galbana for expression in Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Arabidopsis respectively. These are the two key genes encoding enzymes for driving the first catalytic steps in the Δ6 desaturation/Δ6 elongation and the Δ9 elongation/Δ8 desaturation pathways for EPA/DHA biosynthesis. Hence expression levels of these two genes are important in determining the final yield of EPA/DHA. Via PCR-based mutagenesis we optimized the least preferred codons within the first 16 codons at their N-termini, as well as the most biased CGC codons (coding for arginine) within the entire sequences of both genes. An expression study showed that transgenic Arabidopsis plants harbouring the codon-optimized IgASE1 contained 64% more elongated fatty acid products than plants expressing the native IgASE1 sequence, whilst Saccharomyces cerevisiae expressing the codon optimized PinD6 yielded 20 times more desaturated products than yeast expressing wild-type (WT) PinD6. Thus the codon optimization strategy we developed here offers a simple, effective and low-cost alternative to whole gene synthesis for high expression of foreign genes in yeast and Arabidopsis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fei Xia
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Biology, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai’an, 271000, China
| | - Xueying Li
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Biology, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai’an, 271000, China
| | - Xinzheng Li
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Biology, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai’an, 271000, China
| | - Desong Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Biology, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai’an, 271000, China
| | - Quanxi Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Biology, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai’an, 271000, China
| | - Jiang Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Biology, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai’an, 271000, China
| | - Yaxiao Li
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Biology, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai’an, 271000, China
| | - Jinping Hua
- Department of Plant Genetics & Breeding, College of Agronomy and Biotechnology, China Agricultural University, No 2, Yuanmingyuan West Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Baoxiu Qi
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Biology, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai’an, 271000, China
- * E-mail:
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20
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Abstract
Microalgae present a huge and still insufficiently tapped resource of very long-chain omega-3 and omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids (VLC-PUFA) for human nutrition and medicinal applications. This chapter describes the diversity of unicellular eukaryotic microalgae in respect to VLC-PUFA biosynthesis. Then, we outline the major biosynthetic pathways mediating the formation of VLC-PUFA by sequential desaturation and elongation of C18-PUFA acyl groups. We address the aspects of spatial localization of those pathways and elaborate on the role for VLC-PUFA in microalgal cells. Recent progress in microalgal genetic transformation and molecular engineering has opened the way to increased production efficiencies for VLC-PUFA. The perspectives of photobiotechnology and metabolic engineering of microalgae for altered or enhanced VLC-PUFA production are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inna Khozin-Goldberg
- Microalgal Biotechnology Laboratory, French Associates Institute for Agriculture and Biotechnology of Drylands, J. Blaustein Institutes for Desert Research, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Sede Boqer Campus, 84990, Israel.
| | - Stefan Leu
- Microalgal Biotechnology Laboratory, French Associates Institute for Agriculture and Biotechnology of Drylands, J. Blaustein Institutes for Desert Research, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Sede Boqer Campus, 84990, Israel
| | - Sammy Boussiba
- Microalgal Biotechnology Laboratory, French Associates Institute for Agriculture and Biotechnology of Drylands, J. Blaustein Institutes for Desert Research, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Sede Boqer Campus, 84990, Israel
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21
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Ruiz-Lopez N, Haslam RP, Usher S, Napier JA, Sayanova O. An alternative pathway for the effective production of the omega-3 long-chain polyunsaturates EPA and ETA in transgenic oilseeds. PLANT BIOTECHNOLOGY JOURNAL 2015; 13:1264-75. [PMID: 25640865 PMCID: PMC4973703 DOI: 10.1111/pbi.12328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2014] [Revised: 12/10/2014] [Accepted: 12/12/2014] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
The synthesis and accumulation of omega-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids in transgenic Camelina sativa is demonstrated using the so-called alternative pathway. This aerobic pathway is found in a small number of taxonomically unrelated unicellular organisms and utilizes a C18 Δ9-elongase to generate C20 PUFAs. Here, we evaluated four different combinations of seed-specific transgene-derived activities to systematically determine the potential of this pathway to direct the synthesis of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) in transgenic plants. The accumulation of EPA and the related omega-3 LC-PUFA eicosatetraenoic acid (ETA) was observed up to 26.4% of total seed fatty acids, of which ETA was 9.5%. Seed oils such as these not only represent an additional source of EPA, but also an entirely new source of the bona fide fish oil ETA. Detailed lipidomic analysis of the alternative pathway in Camelina revealed that the acyl-substrate preferences of the different activities in the pathway can still generate a substrate-dichotomy bottleneck, largely due to inefficient acyl-exchange from phospholipids into the acyl-CoA pool. However, significant levels of EPA and ETA were detected in the triacylglycerols of transgenic seeds, confirming the channelling of these fatty acids into this storage lipid.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noemi Ruiz-Lopez
- Department of Biological Chemistry and Crop Protection, Rothamsted Research, Harpenden, UK
- Instituto de la Grasa (CSIC), Seville, Spain
| | - Richard P Haslam
- Department of Biological Chemistry and Crop Protection, Rothamsted Research, Harpenden, UK
| | - Sarah Usher
- Department of Biological Chemistry and Crop Protection, Rothamsted Research, Harpenden, UK
| | - Johnathan A Napier
- Department of Biological Chemistry and Crop Protection, Rothamsted Research, Harpenden, UK
| | - Olga Sayanova
- Department of Biological Chemistry and Crop Protection, Rothamsted Research, Harpenden, UK
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22
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Ruiz-Lopez N, Usher S, Sayanova OV, Napier JA, Haslam RP. Modifying the lipid content and composition of plant seeds: engineering the production of LC-PUFA. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2015; 99:143-54. [PMID: 25417743 PMCID: PMC4286622 DOI: 10.1007/s00253-014-6217-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2014] [Revised: 11/05/2014] [Accepted: 11/05/2014] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Omega-3 fatty acids are characterized by a double bond at the third carbon atom from the end of the carbon chain. Latterly, long chain polyunsaturated omega-3 fatty acids such as eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA; 20:5Δ5,8,11,14,17) and docosahexanoic acid (DHA; 22:6 Δ4,7,10,13,16,19), which typically only enter the human diet via the consumption of oily fish, have attracted much attention. The health benefits of the omega-3 LC-PUFAs EPA and DHA are now well established. Given the desire for a sustainable supply of omega-LC-PUFA, efforts have focused on enhancing the composition of vegetable oils to include these important fatty acids. Specifically, EPA and DHA have been the focus of much study, with the ultimate goal of producing a terrestrial plant-based source of these so-called fish oils. Over the last decade, many genes encoding the primary LC-PUFA biosynthetic activities have been identified and characterized. This has allowed the reconstitution of the LC-PUFA biosynthetic pathway in oilseed crops, producing transgenic plants engineered to accumulate omega-3 LC-PUFA to levels similar to that found in fish oil. In this review, we will describe the most recent developments in this field and the challenges of overwriting endogenous seed lipid metabolism to maximize the accumulation of these important fatty acids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noemi Ruiz-Lopez
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Rothamsted Research, Harpenden, Herts AL5 2JQ UK
| | - Sarah Usher
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Rothamsted Research, Harpenden, Herts AL5 2JQ UK
| | - Olga V. Sayanova
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Rothamsted Research, Harpenden, Herts AL5 2JQ UK
| | - Johnathan A. Napier
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Rothamsted Research, Harpenden, Herts AL5 2JQ UK
| | - Richard P. Haslam
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Rothamsted Research, Harpenden, Herts AL5 2JQ UK
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23
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Metabolic engineering of microorganisms to produce omega-3 very long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids. Prog Lipid Res 2014; 56:19-35. [PMID: 25107699 DOI: 10.1016/j.plipres.2014.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2014] [Accepted: 07/14/2014] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Omega-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LC-PUFAs) have received growing attention due to their significant roles in human health. Currently the main source of these nutritionally and medically important fatty acids is marine fish, which has not met ever-increasing global demand. Microorganisms are an important alternative source also being explored. Although many microorganisms accumulate omega-3 LC-PUFAs naturally, metabolic engineering might still be necessary for significantly improving their yields. Here, we review recent research involving the engineering of microorganisms for production of omega-3 LC-PUFAs, including eicospentaenoic acid and docosohexaenoic acid. Both reconstitution of omega-3 LC-PUFA biosynthetic pathways and modification of existing pathways in microorganisms have demonstrated the potential to produce high levels of omega-3 LC-PUFAs. However, the yields of omega-3 LC-PUFAs in host systems have been substantially limited by potential metabolic bottlenecks, which might be caused partly by inefficient flux of fatty acid intermediates between the acyl-CoA and different lipid class pools. Although fatty acid flux in both native and heterologous microbial hosts might be controlled by several acyltransferases, evidence has suggested that genetic manipulation of one acyltransferase alone could significantly increase the accumulation of LC-PUFAs. The number of oleaginous microorganisms that can be genetically transformed is increasing, which will advance engineering efforts to maximize LC-PUFA yields in microbial strains.
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Mohamed ME, Lazarus CM. Production of prostaglandins in transgenic Arabidopsis thaliana. PHYTOCHEMISTRY 2014; 102:74-79. [PMID: 24629803 DOI: 10.1016/j.phytochem.2014.02.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2013] [Revised: 02/05/2014] [Accepted: 02/10/2014] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Plants do not naturally produce the very-long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids that are the precursors of prostaglandins, but in previous studies Arabidopsis thaliana had been transformed sequentially with genes encoding a Δ(9)-elongase and a Δ(8)-desaturase to produce dihomo-γ-linolenic acid (DGLA) and eicosatetraenoic acid (ETA), and subsequently with a gene encoding a Δ(5)-desaturase to produce arachidonic acid (AA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). Transformation of A. thaliana with the first two genes consolidated on a single binary vector yielded transformants producing high levels of DGLA, and these plants were further transformed with mouse prostaglandin H synthase (PGH) genes to produce prostaglandins. Mouse PGHS-1 and PGHS-2 cDNAs were amplified for expression as three isoforms: PGHS-1 (complete coding sequence with signal peptide), PGHS-1-Ma (mature PGHS-1 sequence, without signal peptide) and PGHS-2 (complete coding sequence with signal peptide). PGHS-1 transformants showed the highest activity, followed by PGHS-2 transformants, whereas removal of the signal peptide resulted in almost complete loss of PGHS-1 activity. In order to produce a physiologically active prostaglandin, the Trypanosoma brucei prostaglandin F synthase gene was combined with the mouse PGHS-1 gene and the Mortierella alpina Δ(5)-desaturase on a binary vector. Transformation of DGLA-producing A. thaliana with this construct yielded transformants that successfully produced prostaglandin F.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maged E Mohamed
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Bristol, Woodland Road, Bristol BS8 1UG, United Kingdom; College of Clinical Pharmacy, King Faisal University, P.O. 380, Ahsaa 31982, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Colin M Lazarus
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Bristol, Woodland Road, Bristol BS8 1UG, United Kingdom
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25
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Yuan X, Li Y, Liu S, Xia F, Li X, Qi B. Accumulation of eicosapolyenoic acids enhances sensitivity to abscisic acid and mitigates the effects of drought in transgenic Arabidopsis thaliana. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL BOTANY 2014; 65:1637-49. [PMID: 24609499 PMCID: PMC3967093 DOI: 10.1093/jxb/eru031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
IgASE1, a C₁₈ Δ(9)-specific polyunsaturated fatty acid elongase from the marine microalga Isochrysis galbana, is able to convert linoleic acid and α-linolenic acid to eicosadienoic acid and eicosatrienoic acid in Arabidopsis. Eicosadienoic acid and eicosatrienoic acid are precursors of arachidonic acid, eicosapentaenoic acid, and docosahexaenoic acid, which are synthesized via the Δ(8) desaturation biosynthetic pathways. This study shows that the IgASE1-expressing transgenic Arabidopsis exhibited altered morphology (decreased leaf area and biomass) and enhanced drought resistance compared to wild-type plants. The transgenic Arabidopsis were hypersensitive to abscisic acid (ABA) during seed germination, post-germination growth, and seedling development. They had elevated leaf ABA levels under well-watered and dehydrated conditions and their stomata were more sensitive to ABA. Exogenous application of eicosadienoic acid and eicosatrienoic acid can mimic ABA and drought responses in the wild type plants, similar to that found in the transgenic ones. The transcript levels of genes involved in the biosynthesis of ABA (NCED3, ABA1, AAO3) as well as other stress-related genes were upregulated in this transgenic line upon osmotic stress (300 mM mannitol). Taken together, these results indicate that these two eicosapolyenoic acids or their derived metabolites can mitigate the effects of drought in transgenic Arabidopsis, at least in part, through the action of ABA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaowei Yuan
- College of Life Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Crop Biology, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai’an 271018, People’s Republic of China
- Huasheng Agriculture Limited Liability Company, Qingzhou, Shandong 262500, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yaxiao Li
- College of Life Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Crop Biology, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai’an 271018, People’s Republic of China
- Department of Biology and Biochemistry, University of Bath, Claverton Down, Bath BA2 7AY,UK
| | - Shiyang Liu
- College of Life Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Crop Biology, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai’an 271018, People’s Republic of China
| | - Fei Xia
- College of Life Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Crop Biology, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai’an 271018, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xinzheng Li
- College of Life Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Crop Biology, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai’an 271018, People’s Republic of China
| | - Baoxiu Qi
- College of Life Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Crop Biology, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai’an 271018, People’s Republic of China
- Department of Biology and Biochemistry, University of Bath, Claverton Down, Bath BA2 7AY,UK
- * To whom correspondence should be addressed. E-mail:
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Zhu G, Ou Q, Zhang T, Jiang X, Sun G, Zhang N, Wang K, Fang H, Wang M, Sun J, Ge T. A more desirable balanced polyunsaturated fatty acid composition achieved by heterologous expression of Δ15/Δ4 desaturases in mammalian cells. PLoS One 2013; 8:e84871. [PMID: 24391980 PMCID: PMC3877351 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0084871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2013] [Accepted: 11/20/2013] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Arachidonic (ARA), eicosapentaenoic (EPA) and docosahexaenoic (DHA) acids are the most biologically active polyunsaturated fatty acids, but their biosyntheses in mammals are very limited. The biosynthesis of DHA is the most difficult, because this undergoes the Sprecher pathway--a further elongation step from docosapentaenoic acid (DPA), a Δ6-desaturase acting on a C24 fatty acid substrate followed by a peroxisomal chain shortening step. This paper reports the successful heterologous expression of two non-mammalian genes (with modification of codon usage), coding for Euglena gracilis Δ4-desaturase and Siganus canaliculatus Δ4-desaturase respectively, in mammalian cells (HEK293 cell line). Both of the Δ4-desaturases can efficiently function, directly converting DPA into DHA. Moreover, the cooperation of the E. gracilis Δ4-desaturase with C. elegans Δ15-desaturase (able to convert a number of n-6 PUFAs to their corresponding n-3 PUFAs) in transgenic HEK293 cells made a more desirable fatty acid composition--a drastically reduced n-6/n-3 PUFAs ratio and a high level of DHA as well as EPA and ARA. Our findings provide a basis for potential applications of the gene constructs for expression of Δ15/Δ4-desaturases in transgenic livestock to produce such a fatty acid profile in the related products, which certainly will bring benefit to human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guiming Zhu
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Basic Medicine, Jiamusi University, Jiamusi, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Qin Ou
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Basic Medicine, Jiamusi University, Jiamusi, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Tao Zhang
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Basic Medicine, Jiamusi University, Jiamusi, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Xudong Jiang
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Basic Medicine, Jiamusi University, Jiamusi, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Guozhi Sun
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Basic Medicine, Jiamusi University, Jiamusi, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Ning Zhang
- Jiamusi College, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Jiamusi, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Kunfu Wang
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Basic Medicine, Jiamusi University, Jiamusi, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Heng Fang
- College of Pharmacy, Jiamusi University, Jiamusi, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Mingfu Wang
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Basic Medicine, Jiamusi University, Jiamusi, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Jie Sun
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Basic Medicine, Jiamusi University, Jiamusi, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Tangdong Ge
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Basic Medicine, Jiamusi University, Jiamusi, Heilongjiang, China
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Sun Q, Liu J, Li Y, Zhang Q, Shan S, Li X, Qi B. Creation and validation of a widely applicable multiple gene transfer vector system for stable transformation in plant. PLANT MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2013; 83:391-404. [PMID: 23839253 DOI: 10.1007/s11103-013-0096-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2012] [Accepted: 06/16/2013] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
Multiple gene transfer (MGT) technology has become a powerful tool for basic and applied plant biology research in recent years. Despite some notable successes in obtaining plant lines harbouring multiple transgenes, these methods are still generally unwieldy and costly. We report here a straightforward and cost effective strategy, utilizing commonly available restriction enzymes for the transfer of multiple genes into plants, hence greatly widening the accessibility of MGT. This methodology exploits the specific 'nested' arrangement of a pair of isocaudomer restriction enzymes (for example XbaI-AvrII-XbaI) so that through the alternate use of these two enzymes in a reiterative fashion multiple genes/constructs (up to five in this study) could be 'stacked' together with ease. In a proof-of-concept experiment, we constructed a plant transformation vector containing three reporter gene expression cassettes flanked by two matrix attachment region sequences. The expression of all three genes was confirmed in transgenic Arabidopsis thaliana. The usefulness of this technology was further validated by the construction of a plant transformation vector containing five transgenes for the production of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA, C20∆⁵,⁸,¹¹,¹⁴,¹⁷), a polyunsaturated essential fatty acid found in fish oils that is beneficial for health. In addition, we constructed four more vectors, incorporating one seed specific and three promoters conferring constitutive expression. These expression cassettes are flanked by a different isocaudomer pair (AvrII-SpeI-AvrII) and four other unique restriction sites, allowing the exchange of promoters and terminators of choice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Quanxi Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Biology, Shandong Agricultural University, Taian, 271000, China
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28
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Site-directed mutagenesis of a fatty acid elongase ELO-like condensing enzyme. FEBS Lett 2013; 587:3837-42. [PMID: 24157363 DOI: 10.1016/j.febslet.2013.10.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2013] [Revised: 10/08/2013] [Accepted: 10/12/2013] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The condensation step of fatty acid elongation is the addition of a C2 unit from malonyl-CoA to an acyl primer catalyzed by one of two families of enzymes, the 3-ketoacyl-CoA synthases and the ELO-like condensing enzymes. 3-Ketoacyl-CoA synthases use a Claisen-like reaction mechanism while the mechanism of the ELO-catalyzed condensation reaction is unknown. We have used site-directed mutagenesis of Dictyostelium discoideum EloA to identify residues important to catalytic activity and/or structure. Mutation of highly conserved polar residues to alanine resulted in an inactive enzyme strongly suggesting that these residues play a role in the condensation reaction.
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29
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Ji XJ, Ren LJ, Nie ZK, Huang H, Ouyang PK. Fungal arachidonic acid-rich oil: research, development and industrialization. Crit Rev Biotechnol 2013; 34:197-214. [PMID: 23631634 DOI: 10.3109/07388551.2013.778229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Fungal arachidonic acid (ARA)-rich oil is an important microbial oil that affects diverse physiological processes that impact normal health and chronic disease. In this article, the historic developments and technological achievements in fungal ARA-rich oil production in the past several years are reviewed. The biochemistry of ARA, ARA-rich oil synthesis and the accumulation mechanism are first introduced. Subsequently, the fermentation and downstream technologies are summarized. Furthermore, progress in the industrial production of ARA-rich oil is discussed. Finally, guidelines for future studies of fungal ARA-rich oil production are proposed in light of the current progress, challenges and trends in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Jun Ji
- State Key Laboratory of Materials-Oriented Chemical Engineering, College of Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Engineering, Nanjing University of Technology , Nanjing , People's Republic of China
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30
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Shi T, Yu A, Li M, Zhang M, Xing L, Li M. Identification and characterization of a novel C20-elongase gene from the marine microalgae, Pavlova viridis, and its use for the reconstitution of two pathways of long-chain polyunsatured fatty acids biosynthesis in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Biotechnol Lett 2013; 35:1271-82. [DOI: 10.1007/s10529-013-1194-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2013] [Accepted: 03/20/2013] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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31
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Haslam RP, Ruiz-Lopez N, Eastmond P, Moloney M, Sayanova O, Napier JA. The modification of plant oil composition via metabolic engineering--better nutrition by design. PLANT BIOTECHNOLOGY JOURNAL 2013; 11:157-68. [PMID: 23066823 DOI: 10.1111/pbi.12012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2012] [Revised: 09/19/2012] [Accepted: 09/20/2012] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
This article will focus on the modification of plant seed oils to enhance their nutritional composition. Such modifications will include C18 Δ6-desaturated fatty acids such as γ-linolenic and stearidonic acid, omega-6 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids such as arachidonic acid, as well as the omega-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (often named 'fish oils') such as eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid. We will consider how new technologies (such as synthetic biology, next-generation sequencing and lipidomics) can help speed up and direct the development of desired traits in transgenic oilseeds. We will also discuss how manipulating triacylglycerol structure can further enhance the nutritional value of 'designer' oils. We will also consider how advances in model systems have translated into crops and the potential end-users for such novel oils (e.g. aquaculture, animal feed, human nutrition).
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard P Haslam
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Rothamsted Research, Harpenden, Herts, UK
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32
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Sun Q, Liu J, Zhang Q, Qing X, Dobson G, Li X, Qi B. Characterization of three novel desaturases involved in the delta-6 desaturation pathways for polyunsaturated fatty acid biosynthesis from Phytophthora infestans. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2012; 97:7689-97. [PMID: 23229570 DOI: 10.1007/s00253-012-4613-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2012] [Revised: 11/15/2012] [Accepted: 11/22/2012] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Phytophthora infestans is the causative agent of potato blight that resulted in the great famine in Ireland in the nineteenth century. This microbe can release large amounts of the C20 very long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids arachidonic acid (ARA; 20:4Δ(5, 8, 11, 14)) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA; 20:5Δ(5, 8, 11, 14, 17)) upon invasion that is known to elicit a hypersensitive response to their host plant. In order to identify enzymes responsible for the biosynthesis of these fatty acids, we blasted the recently fully sequenced P. infestans genome and identified three novel putatively encoding desaturase sequences. These were subsequently functionally characterized by expression in Saccharomyces cerevisiae and confirmed that they encode desaturases with Δ12, Δ6 and Δ5 activity, designated here as PinDes12, PinDes6 and PinDes5, respectively. This, together with the combined fatty acid profiles and a previously identified Δ6 elongase activity, implies that the ARA and EPA are biosynthesized predominantly via the Δ6 desaturation pathways in P. infestans. Elucidation of ARA and EPA biosynthetic mechanism may provide new routes to combating this potato blight microbe directly or by means of conferring resistance to important crops.
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Affiliation(s)
- Quanxi Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Biology, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an, 271000, China
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33
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Two novel Physcomitrella patens fatty acid elongases (ELOs): identification and functional characterization. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2012; 97:3485-97. [DOI: 10.1007/s00253-012-4556-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2012] [Revised: 10/25/2012] [Accepted: 10/25/2012] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
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34
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Shi T, Yu A, Li M, Ou X, Xing L, Li M. Identification of a novel C22-∆4-producing docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) specific polyunsaturated fatty acid desaturase gene from Isochrysis galbana and its expression in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Biotechnol Lett 2012; 34:2265-74. [PMID: 22941368 DOI: 10.1007/s10529-012-1028-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2012] [Accepted: 08/15/2012] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Isochrysis galbana, produces long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids including docosahexaenoic acid (DHA, 22:6n-3). A novel gene (IgFAD4-2), encoding a C22-∆4 polyunsaturated fatty acid specific desaturase, has been isolated and characterized from I. galbana. A full-length cDNA of 1,302 bp was cloned by LA-PCR technique. The IgFAD4-2 encoded a protein of 433 amino acids that shares 78 % identity with a previously reported ∆4-desaturase (IgFAD4-1) from I. galbana. The function of IgFAD4-2 was deduced by its heterologous expression in Saccharomyces cerevisiae, which then desaturated docosapentaenoic acid (DPA, 22:5n-3) to DHA. The conversion ratio of DPA to DHA was 34 %, which is higher than other ∆4-desaturases cloned from algae. However, IgFAD4-2 did not catalyze the desaturation or elongation reactions with other fatty acids. These results confirm that IgFAD4-2 has C22-∆4-PUFAs-specific desaturase activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tonglei Shi
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Microbiology and Technology, Ministry of Education, Department of Microbiology, Nankai University, Tianjin, China.
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35
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Ruiz-López N, Sayanova O, Napier JA, Haslam RP. Metabolic engineering of the omega-3 long chain polyunsaturated fatty acid biosynthetic pathway into transgenic plants. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL BOTANY 2012; 63:2397-410. [PMID: 22291131 DOI: 10.1093/jxb/err454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
Omega-3 (ω-3) very long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (VLC-PUFAs) such as eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA; 20:5 Δ5,8,11,14,17) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA; 22:6 Δ4,7,10,13,16,19) have been shown to have significant roles in human health. Currently the primary dietary source of these fatty acids are marine fish; however, the increasing demand for fish and fish oil (in particular the expansion of the aquaculture industry) is placing enormous pressure on diminishing marine stocks. Such overfishing and concerns related to pollution in the marine environment have directed research towards the development of a viable alternative sustainable source of VLC-PUFAs. As a result, the last decade has seen many genes encoding the primary VLC-PUFA biosynthetic activities identified and characterized. This has allowed the reconstitution of the VLC-PUFA biosynthetic pathway in oilseed crops, producing transgenic plants engineered to accumulate ω-3 VLC-PUFAs at levels approaching those found in native marine organisms. Moreover, as a result of these engineering activities, knowledge of the fundamental processes surrounding acyl exchange and lipid remodelling has progressed. The application of new technologies, for example lipidomics and next-generation sequencing, is providing a better understanding of seed oil biosynthesis and opportunities for increasing the production of unusual fatty acids. Certainly, it is now possible to modify the composition of plant oils successfully, and, in this review, the most recent developments in this field and the challenges of producing VLC-PUFAs in the seed oil of higher plants will be described.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noemi Ruiz-López
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Rothamsted Research, Harpenden, Herts AL5 2JQ, UK
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36
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Cloning and identification of a novel C18-Δ9 polyunsaturated fatty acid specific elongase gene from DHA-producing Isochrysis galbana H29. BIOTECHNOL BIOPROC E 2012. [DOI: 10.1007/s12257-011-0037-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
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37
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Identification of a Δ6 fatty acid elongase gene for arachidonic acid biosynthesis localized to the endoplasmic reticulum in the green microalga Myrmecia incisa Reisigl. Gene 2012; 493:219-27. [DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2011.11.053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2011] [Revised: 11/18/2011] [Accepted: 11/21/2011] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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38
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Guedes AC, Amaro HM, Barbosa CR, Pereira RD, Malcata FX. Fatty acid composition of several wild microalgae and cyanobacteria, with a focus on eicosapentaenoic, docosahexaenoic and α-linolenic acids for eventual dietary uses. Food Res Int 2011. [DOI: 10.1016/j.foodres.2011.05.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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39
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LC-PUFA from photosynthetic microalgae: occurrence, biosynthesis, and prospects in biotechnology. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2011; 91:905-15. [PMID: 21720821 DOI: 10.1007/s00253-011-3441-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 100] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2011] [Revised: 06/10/2011] [Accepted: 06/11/2011] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Microalgae offer potential for numerous commercial applications, among them the production of long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LC-PUFAs). These valuable fatty acids are important for a variety of nutraceutical and pharmaceutical purposes, and the market for these products is continually growing. An appropriate ratio of LC-PUFA of the ω-3 and ω-6 groups is vital for "healthy" nutrition, and adequate dietary intake has strong health benefits in humans. Microalgae of diverse classes are primary natural producers of LC-PUFA. This mini-review presents an introductory overview of LC-PUFA-related health benefits in humans, describes LC-PUFA occurrence in diverse microalgal classes, depicts the major pathways of their biosynthesis in microalgae, and discusses the prospects for microalgal LC-PUFA production.
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40
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Isolation of a novel C18-Δ9 polyunsaturated fatty acid specific elongase gene from DHA-producing Isochrysis galbana H29 and its use for the reconstitution of the alternative Δ8 pathway in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Biotechnol Lett 2011; 33:1823-30. [DOI: 10.1007/s10529-011-0626-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2011] [Accepted: 04/08/2011] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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41
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Sayanova O, Haslam RP, Calerón MV, López NR, Worthy C, Rooks P, Allen MJ, Napier JA. Identification and functional characterisation of genes encoding the omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid biosynthetic pathway from the coccolithophore Emiliania huxleyi. PHYTOCHEMISTRY 2011; 72:594-600. [PMID: 21316718 DOI: 10.1016/j.phytochem.2011.01.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2010] [Revised: 01/11/2011] [Accepted: 01/12/2011] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
The Prymnesiophyceae coccolithophore Emiliania huxleyi is one of the most abundant alga in our oceans and therefore plays a central role in marine foodwebs. E. huxleyi is notable for the synthesis and accumulation of the omega-3 long chain polyunsaturated fatty acid docosahexaenoic acid (DHA; 22:6Δ(4,7,10,13,16,19), n-3) which is accumulated in fish oils and known to have health-beneficial properties to humans, preventing cardiovascular disease and related pathologies. Here we describe the identification and functional characterisation of the five E. huxleyi genes which direct the synthesis of docosahexaenoic acid in this alga. Surprisingly, E. huxleyi does not use the conventional Δ6-pathway, instead using the alternative Δ8-desaturation route which has previously only been observed in a few unrelated microorganisms. Given that E. huxleyi accumulates significant levels of the Δ6-desaturated fatty acid stearidonic acid (18:4Δ(6,9,12,15), n-3), we infer that the biosynthesis of DHA is likely to be metabolically compartmentalised from the synthesis of stearidonic acid.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olga Sayanova
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Rothamsted Research, Harpenden, Herts AL5 2JQ, UK
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42
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Petrie JR, Shrestha P, Belide S, Mansour MP, Liu Q, Horne J, Nichols PD, Singh SP. Transgenic production of arachidonic acid in oilseeds. Transgenic Res 2011; 21:139-47. [DOI: 10.1007/s11248-011-9517-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2010] [Accepted: 04/21/2011] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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43
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Petrie JR, Singh SP. Expanding the docosahexaenoic acid food web for sustainable production: engineering lower plant pathways into higher plants. AOB PLANTS 2011; 2011:plr011. [PMID: 22476481 PMCID: PMC3114564 DOI: 10.1093/aobpla/plr011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2011] [Revised: 03/17/2011] [Accepted: 04/07/2011] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Algae are becoming an increasingly important component of land plant metabolic engineering projects. Land plants and algae have similar enough genetics to allow relatively straightforward gene transfer and they also share enough metabolic similarities that algal enzymes often function in a plant cell environment. Understanding metabolic systems in algae can provide insights into homologous systems in land plants. As examples, algal models are currently being used by several groups to better understand starch and lipid metabolism and catabolism, fields which have relevance in land plants. Importantly, land plants and algae also have enough metabolic divergence that algal genes can often provide new metabolic traits to plants. Furthermore, many algal genomes have now been sequenced, with many more in progress, and this easy access to genome-wide information has revealed that algal genomes are often relatively simple when compared with plants. SCOPE One example of the importance of algal, and in particular microalgal, resources to land plant research is the metabolic engineering of long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids into oilseed crops which typically uses microalgal genes to extend existing natural plant biosynthetic pathways. This review describes both recent progress and remaining challenges in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Surinder P. Singh
- Food Futures National Research Flagship, CSIRO Plant Industry, PO Box 1600, Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia
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Huang JZ, Jiang XZ, Xia XF, Yu AQ, Mao RY, Chen XF, Tian BY. Cloning and functional identification of delta5 fatty acid desaturase gene and its 5'-upstream region from marine fungus Thraustochytrium sp. FJN-10. MARINE BIOTECHNOLOGY (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2011; 13:12-21. [PMID: 20358240 DOI: 10.1007/s10126-010-9262-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2009] [Accepted: 12/14/2009] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
A gene encoding delta5 fatty acid desaturase (fad5) was cloned from marine fungus Thraustochytrium sp. FJN-10, a species capable of producing docosahexaenoic acid. The open reading frame of fad5 was 1,320 bp and encoded a protein comprising 439 amino acids. Expression of the fad5 in Saccharomyces cerevisiae INVSC1 revealed that FAD5 is able to introduce a double bond at position 5 of the dihomo-γ-linolenic acid (20:3 Δ(8,11,14)), resulting in arachidonic acid (20:4 Δ(5,8,11,14)) with a conversion rate of 56.40% which is the highest among engineering yeasts reported so far. The 5'-upstream region of fad5 was cloned by LA-PCR and analyzed. Phylogenetic analysis of this sequence with the 5'-upstream region of other delta5 desaturases showed that the 5'-upstream region of fad5 from Thraustochytrium share the smallest evolution distance with human and rhesus. Computational analysis of the nucleotide sequence of the 5'-upstream region of fad5 has revealed several basic transcriptional elements including five TATA boxes, three CCAAT boxes, 12 GC boxes, and several putative target-binding sites for transcription factors such as HSF, CAP, and ADR1. Preliminary functional analysis of this promoter in S. cerevisiae shows that the 5'-upstream region of fad5 could drive the expression of green fluorescent protein.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian-Zhong Huang
- Engineering Research Center of Industrial Microbiology, Ministry of Education, Fujian Normal University, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350108, People's Republic of China.
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Molecular analysis of ∆6 desaturase and ∆6 elongase from Conidiobolus obscurus in the biosynthesis of eicosatetraenoic acid, a ω3 fatty acid with nutraceutical potentials. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2011; 90:591-601. [PMID: 21210105 DOI: 10.1007/s00253-010-3060-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2010] [Revised: 12/05/2010] [Accepted: 12/06/2010] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Conidiobolus obscurus, an entomopathogenic fungus able to infect aphids, was previously reported to produce substantial amounts of very long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (VLCPUFAs) that may mediate the insect infection. However, the genes involved in the biosynthesis of these VLCPUFAs from the order Entomophthorales have yet to be identified. Using degenerate reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction and rapid amplification of the cDNA end methods, we cloned a ∆6 desaturase cDNA (CoD6) and a ∆6 elongase cDNA (CoE6) from C. obscurus. Expression of CoD6 and CoE6 in Saccharomyces cerevisiae revealed CoD6 could introduce a Δ6 double bond into α-linolenic acid (18:3n-3), and CoE6 preferentially elongated 18-carbon Δ6 desaturated fatty acid stearidonic acid (18:4n-3). When the fungus was grown under a temperature shift from 20 °C to 10 °C, the transcript level of CoD6 and CoE6 increased, whereas when the fungal culture was shifted from 20 °C to 30 °C, the transcript level of both genes decreased. The entire eicosatetraenoic acid biosynthetic pathway was reconstituted in yeast using four genes, CoD6 and CoE6 from C. obscurus, CpDes12 (a Δ12 desaturase) and CpDesX (a ω3 desaturase) from Claviceps purpurea. Yeast transformants expressing the four genes produced ten new fatty acids including the final product eicosatetraenoic acid (ETA). This represents the reconstitution of the entire ETA pathway in yeast without supplementation of any exogenous fatty acids.
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46
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Identification and characterization of a novel enzyme related to the synthesis of PUFAs derived from Thraustochytrium aureum ATCC 34304. BIOTECHNOL BIOPROC E 2010. [DOI: 10.1007/s12257-009-0223-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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Venegas-Calerón M, Sayanova O, Napier JA. An alternative to fish oils: Metabolic engineering of oil-seed crops to produce omega-3 long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids. Prog Lipid Res 2010; 49:108-19. [DOI: 10.1016/j.plipres.2009.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 150] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2009] [Revised: 10/13/2009] [Accepted: 10/20/2009] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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Wood CC, Petrie JR, Shrestha P, Mansour MP, Nichols PD, Green AG, Singh SP. A leaf-based assay using interchangeable design principles to rapidly assemble multistep recombinant pathways. PLANT BIOTECHNOLOGY JOURNAL 2009; 7:914-24. [PMID: 19843252 DOI: 10.1111/j.1467-7652.2009.00453.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
The assembly of multistep recombinant pathways in stably transformed plants is a cornerstone of crops producing new products yet can be a laborious and time-consuming process. Any heterologous expression platform capable of providing a rapid estimation of the functional assembly of an entire pathway would guide the design of such transgenic traits. In this study, we use a Nicotiana benthamiana transient leaf expression system to simultaneously express five genes, from five independent T(DNA) binary vectors, to assemble a complete recombinant pathway in five days. In this study, we demonstrate the production of long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LC-PUFA) requiring five transgene-encoded reactions to convert endogenous fatty acids to LC-PUFA. The addition of a triacylglycerol assembly enzyme, Arabidopsis thaliana diacylglyceride-O-acyltransferase, and fractionation of the total lipid profile demonstrated that leaf oils contained 37% newly synthesised LC-PUFA, including 7% arachidonic acid (AA), 6% eicosopentaenoic acid and 3% docosahexaenoic acid. The calculation of enzymatic conversion efficiencies at each step of LC-PUFA synthesis suggests that this transient assembly of a complicated multistep pathway is highly efficient. Unlike experiments using stably transformed plants our assembly of an intricate pathway maintained full gene-for-gene interchangeability and required a fraction of the time and glasshouse space. Furthermore, an exogenous LC-PUFA fatty acid substrate, AA, was fed and metabolised by a transiently expressed Delta17-desaturase enzyme, and provided results similar to those obtained in yeast feeding experiments. Although the assay was ideal for LC-PUFA pathways, this assay format may become a powerful tool for the characterisation and step-wise improvement of other recombinant pathways and multigenic traits.
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Cloning and Characterization of the ∆6 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acid Elongase from the Green Microalga Parietochloris incisa. Lipids 2009; 44:545-54. [DOI: 10.1007/s11745-009-3301-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2008] [Accepted: 03/04/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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Identification of a novel fatty acid elongase with a wide substrate specificity from arachidonic acid-producing fungus Mortierella alpina 1S-4. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2009; 84:709-16. [DOI: 10.1007/s00253-009-1999-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2009] [Revised: 03/31/2009] [Accepted: 04/01/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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