1
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Rady HA, Ali SS, El-Sheekh MM. Strategies to enhance biohydrogen production from microalgae: A comprehensive review. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2024; 356:120611. [PMID: 38508014 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2024.120611] [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: 11/06/2023] [Revised: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 03/10/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024]
Abstract
Microalgae represent a promising renewable feedstock for the sustainable production of biohydrogen. Their high growth rates and ability to fix carbon utilizing just sunlight, water, and nutrients make them well-suited for this application. Recent advancements have focused on improving microalgal hydrogen yields and cultivation methods. This review aims to summarize recent developments in microalgal cultivation techniques and genetic engineering strategies for enhanced biohydrogen production. Specific areas of focus include novel microalgal species selection, immobilization methods, integrated hybrid systems, and metabolic engineering. Studies related to microalgal strain selection, cultivation methods, metabolic engineering, and genetic manipulations were compiled and analyzed. Promising microalgal species with high hydrogen production capabilities such as Synechocystis sp., Anabaena variabilis, and Chlamydomonas reinhardtii have been identified. Immobilization techniques like encapsulation in alginate and integration with dark fermentation have led to improved hydrogen yields. Metabolic engineering through modulation of hydrogenase activity and photosynthetic pathways shows potential for enhanced biohydrogen productivity. Considerable progress has been made in developing microalgal systems for biohydrogen. However, challenges around process optimization and scale-up remain. Future work involving metabolic modeling, photobioreactor design, and genetic engineering of electron transfer pathways could help realize the full potential of this renewable technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hadeer A Rady
- Botany Department, Faculty of Science, Tanta University, Tanta, 31527, Egypt
| | - Sameh S Ali
- Botany Department, Faculty of Science, Tanta University, Tanta, 31527, Egypt
| | - Mostafa M El-Sheekh
- Botany Department, Faculty of Science, Tanta University, Tanta, 31527, Egypt.
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2
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Jia K, Yang M, Liu X, Zhang Q, Cao G, Ge F, Zhao J. Deciphering the structure, function, and mechanism of lysine acetyltransferase cGNAT2 in cyanobacteria. PLANT PHYSIOLOGY 2024; 194:634-661. [PMID: 37770070 DOI: 10.1093/plphys/kiad509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2023] [Revised: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023]
Abstract
Lysine acetylation is a conserved regulatory posttranslational protein modification that is performed by lysine acetyltransferases (KATs). By catalyzing the transfer of acetyl groups to substrate proteins, KATs play critical regulatory roles in all domains of life; however, no KATs have yet been identified in cyanobacteria. Here, we tested all predicted KATs in the cyanobacterium Synechococcus sp. PCC 7002 (Syn7002) and demonstrated that A1596, which we named cyanobacterial Gcn5-related N-acetyltransferase (cGNAT2), can catalyze lysine acetylation in vivo and in vitro. Eight amino acid residues were identified as the key residues in the putative active site of cGNAT2, as indicated by structural simulation and site-directed mutagenesis. The loss of cGNAT2 altered both growth and photosynthetic electron transport in Syn7002. In addition, quantitative analysis of the lysine acetylome identified 548 endogenous substrates of cGNAT2 in Syn7002. We further demonstrated that cGNAT2 can acetylate NAD(P)H dehydrogenase J (NdhJ) in vivo and in vitro, with the inability to acetylate K89 residues, thus decreasing NdhJ activity and affecting both growth and electron transport in Syn7002. In summary, this study identified a KAT in cyanobacteria and revealed that cGNAT2 regulates growth and photosynthesis in Syn7002 through an acetylation-mediated mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kun Jia
- State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430072, China
- College of Advanced Agricultural Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Mingkun Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430072, China
- College of Advanced Agricultural Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Xin Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430072, China
- School of Animal Science and Nutritional Engineering, Wuhan Polytechnic University, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Qi Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430072, China
- College of Advanced Agricultural Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Gaoxiang Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430072, China
- College of Advanced Agricultural Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Feng Ge
- State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430072, China
- College of Advanced Agricultural Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Jindong Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430072, China
- State Key Laboratory of Protein and Plant Genetic Engineering, College of Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
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3
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Milrad Y, Nagy V, Elman T, Fadeeva M, Tóth SZ, Yacoby I. A PSII photosynthetic control is activated in anoxic cultures of green algae following illumination. Commun Biol 2023; 6:514. [PMID: 37173420 PMCID: PMC10182038 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-023-04890-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2022] [Accepted: 05/01/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Photosynthetic hydrogen production from microalgae is considered to have potential as a renewable energy source. Yet, the process has two main limitations holding it back from scaling up; (i) electron loss to competing processes, mainly carbon fixation and (ii) sensitivity to O2 which diminishes the expression and the activity of the hydrogenase enzyme catalyzing H2 production. Here we report a third, hitherto unknown challenge: We found that under anoxia, a slow-down switch is activated in photosystem II (PSII), diminishing the maximal photosynthetic productivity by three-fold. Using purified PSII and applying in vivo spectroscopic and mass spectrometric techniques on Chlamydomonas reinhardtii cultures, we show that this switch is activated under anoxia, within 10 s of illumination. Furthermore, we show that the recovery to the initial rate takes place following 15 min of dark anoxia, and propose a mechanism in which, modulation in electron transfer at the acceptor site of PSII diminishes its output. Such insights into the mechanism broaden our understanding of anoxic photosynthesis and its regulation in green algae and inspire new strategies to improve bio-energy yields.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuval Milrad
- School of Plant Sciences and Food Security, The George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Ramat Aviv, Tel Aviv, 69978, Israel
| | - Valéria Nagy
- Institute of Plant Biology, Biological Research Centre, Szeged, Temesvári krt. 62, H-6726 Szeged, Hungary
| | - Tamar Elman
- School of Plant Sciences and Food Security, The George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Ramat Aviv, Tel Aviv, 69978, Israel
| | - Maria Fadeeva
- Department of Biochemistry, The George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Ramat Aviv, Tel Aviv, 69978, Israel
| | - Szilvia Z Tóth
- Institute of Plant Biology, Biological Research Centre, Szeged, Temesvári krt. 62, H-6726 Szeged, Hungary
| | - Iftach Yacoby
- School of Plant Sciences and Food Security, The George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Ramat Aviv, Tel Aviv, 69978, Israel.
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4
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The relationship between photosystem II regulation and light-dependent hydrogen production by microalgae. Biophys Rev 2022; 14:893-904. [DOI: 10.1007/s12551-022-00977-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2022] [Accepted: 06/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
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5
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Ho TTH, Schwier C, Elman T, Fleuter V, Zinzius K, Scholz M, Yacoby I, Buchert F, Hippler M. Photosystem I light-harvesting proteins regulate photosynthetic electron transfer and hydrogen production. PLANT PHYSIOLOGY 2022; 189:329-343. [PMID: 35157085 PMCID: PMC9070821 DOI: 10.1093/plphys/kiac055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2021] [Accepted: 01/23/2022] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Linear electron flow (LEF) and cyclic electron flow (CEF) compete for light-driven electrons transferred from the acceptor side of photosystem I (PSI). Under anoxic conditions, such highly reducing electrons also could be used for hydrogen (H2) production via electron transfer between ferredoxin and hydrogenase in the green alga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii. Partitioning between LEF and CEF is regulated through PROTON-GRADIENT REGULATION5 (PGR5). There is evidence that partitioning of electrons also could be mediated via PSI remodeling processes. This plasticity is linked to the dynamics of PSI-associated light-harvesting proteins (LHCAs) LHCA2 and LHCA9. These two unique light-harvesting proteins are distinct from all other LHCAs because they are loosely bound at the PSAL pole. Here, we investigated photosynthetic electron transfer and H2 production in single, double, and triple mutants deficient in PGR5, LHCA2, and LHCA9. Our data indicate that lhca2 and lhca9 mutants are efficient in photosynthetic electron transfer, that LHCA2 impacts the pgr5 phenotype, and that pgr5/lhca2 is a potent H2 photo-producer. In addition, pgr5/lhca2 and pgr5/lhca9 mutants displayed substantially different H2 photo-production kinetics. This indicates that the absence of LHCA2 or LHCA9 impacts H2 photo-production independently, despite both being attached at the PSAL pole, pointing to distinct regulatory capacities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thi Thu Hoai Ho
- Institute of Plant Biology and Biotechnology, University of Münster, Münster 48143, Germany
- Faculty of Fisheries, University of Agriculture and Forestry, Hue University, Hue 530000, Vietnam
| | - Chris Schwier
- Institute of Plant Biology and Biotechnology, University of Münster, Münster 48143, Germany
| | - Tamar Elman
- School of Plant Sciences and Food Security, The George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
| | - Vera Fleuter
- Institute of Plant Biology and Biotechnology, University of Münster, Münster 48143, Germany
| | - Karen Zinzius
- Institute of Plant Biology and Biotechnology, University of Münster, Münster 48143, Germany
| | - Martin Scholz
- Institute of Plant Biology and Biotechnology, University of Münster, Münster 48143, Germany
| | - Iftach Yacoby
- School of Plant Sciences and Food Security, The George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
| | - Felix Buchert
- Institute of Plant Biology and Biotechnology, University of Münster, Münster 48143, Germany
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King SJ, Jerkovic A, Brown LJ, Petroll K, Willows RD. Synthetic biology for improved hydrogen production in Chlamydomonas reinhardtii. Microb Biotechnol 2022; 15:1946-1965. [PMID: 35338590 PMCID: PMC9249334 DOI: 10.1111/1751-7915.14024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2021] [Revised: 02/09/2022] [Accepted: 02/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Hydrogen is a clean alternative to fossil fuels. It has applications for electricity generation and transportation and is used for the manufacturing of ammonia and steel. However, today, H2 is almost exclusively produced from coal and natural gas. As such, methods to produce H2 that do not use fossil fuels need to be developed and adopted. The biological manufacturing of H2 may be one promising solution as this process is clean and renewable. Hydrogen is produced biologically via enzymes called hydrogenases. There are three classes of hydrogenases namely [FeFe], [NiFe] and [Fe] hydrogenases. The [FeFe] hydrogenase HydA1 from the model unicellular algae Chlamydomonas reinhardtii has been studied extensively and belongs to the A1 subclass of [FeFe] hydrogenases that have the highest turnover frequencies amongst hydrogenases (21,000 ± 12,000 H2 s−1 for CaHydA from Clostridium acetobutyliticum). Yet to date, limitations in C. reinhardtii H2 production pathways have hampered commercial scale implementation, in part due to O2 sensitivity of hydrogenases and competing metabolic pathways, resulting in low H2 production efficiency. Here, we describe key processes in the biogenesis of HydA1 and H2 production pathways in C. reinhardtii. We also summarize recent advancements of algal H2 production using synthetic biology and describe valuable tools such as high‐throughput screening (HTS) assays to accelerate the process of engineering algae for commercial biological H2 production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel J King
- Department of Molecular Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Ante Jerkovic
- Department of Molecular Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Louise J Brown
- Department of Molecular Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Kerstin Petroll
- Department of Molecular Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Robert D Willows
- Department of Molecular Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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Wang Y, Chen X, Spengler K, Terberger K, Boehm M, Appel J, Barske T, Timm S, Battchikova N, Hagemann M, Gutekunst K. Pyruvate:ferredoxin oxidoreductase and low abundant ferredoxins support aerobic photomixotrophic growth in cyanobacteria. eLife 2022; 11:71339. [PMID: 35138247 PMCID: PMC8887894 DOI: 10.7554/elife.71339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2021] [Accepted: 02/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The decarboxylation of pyruvate is a central reaction in the carbon metabolism of all organisms. It is catalyzed by the pyruvate:ferredoxin oxidoreductase (PFOR) and the pyruvate dehydrogenase (PDH) complex. Whereas PFOR reduces ferredoxin, the PDH complex utilizes NAD+. Anaerobes rely on PFOR, which was replaced during evolution by the PDH complex found in aerobes. Cyanobacteria possess both enzyme systems. Our data challenge the view that PFOR is exclusively utilized for fermentation. Instead, we show, that the cyanobacterial PFOR is stable in the presence of oxygen in vitro and is required for optimal photomixotrophic growth under aerobic and highly reducing conditions while the PDH complex is inactivated. We found that cells rely on a general shift from utilizing NAD(H)- to ferredoxin-dependent enzymes under these conditions. The utilization of ferredoxins instead of NAD(H) saves a greater share of the Gibbs-free energy, instead of wasting it as heat. This obviously simultaneously decelerates metabolic reactions as they operate closer to their thermodynamic equilibrium. It is common thought that during evolution, ferredoxins were replaced by NAD(P)H due to their higher stability in an oxidizing atmosphere. However, the utilization of NAD(P)H could also have been favored due to a higher competitiveness because of an accelerated metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingying Wang
- Department of Biology, Christian-Albrechts University, Kiel, Germany
| | - Xi Chen
- Department of Biology, Christian-Albrechts University, Kiel, Germany
| | | | | | - Marko Boehm
- Department of Molecular Plant Physiology, University of Kassel, Kassel, Germany
| | - Jens Appel
- Department of Molecular Plant Physiology, University of Kassel, Kassel, Germany
| | - Thomas Barske
- Plant Physiology Department, University of Rostock, Rostock, Germany
| | - Stefan Timm
- Plant Physiology Department, University of Rostock, Rostock, Germany
| | | | - Martin Hagemann
- Plant Physiology Department, University of Rostock, Rostock, Germany
| | - Kirstin Gutekunst
- Department of Molecular Plant Physiology, University of Kassel, Kassel, Germany
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8
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Kumar Sharma A, Kumar Ghodke P, Manna S, Chen WH. Emerging technologies for sustainable production of biohydrogen production from microalgae: A state-of-the-art review of upstream and downstream processes. BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY 2021; 342:126057. [PMID: 34597808 DOI: 10.1016/j.biortech.2021.126057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2021] [Revised: 09/23/2021] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Biohydrogen (BioH2) is considered as one of the most environmentally friendly fuels and a strong candidate to meet the future demand for a sustainable source of energy. Presently, the production of BioH2 from photosynthetic organisms has raised a lot of hopes in the fuel industry. Moreover, microalgal-based BioH2 synthesis not only helps to combat current global warming by capturing greenhouse gases but also plays a key role in wastewater treatment. Hence, this manuscript provides a state-of-the-art review of the upstream and downstream BioH2 production processes. Different metabolic routes such as direct and indirect photolysis, dark fermentation, photofermentation, and microbial electrolysis are covered in detail. Upstream processes (e.g. growth techniques, growth media) also have a great impact on BioH2 productivity and economics, which is also explored. Technical and scientific obstacles of microalgae BioH2 systems are finally addressed, allowing the technology to become more innovative and commercial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amit Kumar Sharma
- Department of Chemistry, Centre for Alternate and Renewable Energy Research, R&D, University of Petroleum & Energy Studies (UPES), School of Engineering, Energy Acres Building, Bidholi, Dehradun 248007, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Praveen Kumar Ghodke
- Department of Chemical Engineering, National Institute of Technology Calicut, Kozhikode 673601, Kerala, India
| | - Suvendu Manna
- Department of Health Safety, Environment and Civil Engineering, University of Petroleum and Energy Studies, Dehradun, Uttarakhand 248007, India
| | - Wei-Hsin Chen
- Department of Aeronautics and Astronautics, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan 701, Taiwan; Research Center for Smart Sustainable Circular Economy, Tunghai University, Taichung 407, Taiwan; Department of Mechanical Engineering, National Chin-Yi University of Technology, Taichung 411, Taiwan.
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9
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Kosourov S, Böhm M, Senger M, Berggren G, Stensjö K, Mamedov F, Lindblad P, Allahverdiyeva Y. Photosynthetic hydrogen production: Novel protocols, promising engineering approaches and application of semi-synthetic hydrogenases. PHYSIOLOGIA PLANTARUM 2021; 173:555-567. [PMID: 33860946 DOI: 10.1111/ppl.13428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2021] [Accepted: 04/05/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Photosynthetic production of molecular hydrogen (H2 ) by cyanobacteria and green algae is a potential source of renewable energy. These organisms are capable of water biophotolysis by taking advantage of photosynthetic apparatus that links water oxidation at Photosystem II and reduction of protons to H2 downstream of Photosystem I. Although the process has a theoretical potential to displace fossil fuels, photosynthetic H2 production in its current state is not yet efficient enough for industrial applications due to a number of physiological, biochemical, and engineering barriers. This article presents a short overview of the metabolic pathways and enzymes involved in H2 photoproduction in cyanobacteria and green algae and our present understanding of the mechanisms of this process. We also summarize recent advances in engineering photosynthetic cell factories capable of overcoming the major barriers to efficient and sustainable H2 production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergey Kosourov
- Molecular Plant Biology, Department of Life Technologies, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Maximilian Böhm
- Molecular Biomimetics, Department of Chemistry-Ångström, Ångström Laboratory, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Moritz Senger
- Molecular Biomimetics, Department of Chemistry-Ångström, Ångström Laboratory, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Gustav Berggren
- Molecular Biomimetics, Department of Chemistry-Ångström, Ångström Laboratory, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Karin Stensjö
- Microbial Chemistry, Department of Chemistry-Ångström, Ångström Laboratory, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Fikret Mamedov
- Molecular Biomimetics, Department of Chemistry-Ångström, Ångström Laboratory, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Peter Lindblad
- Microbial Chemistry, Department of Chemistry-Ångström, Ångström Laboratory, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Yagut Allahverdiyeva
- Molecular Plant Biology, Department of Life Technologies, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
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10
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Kozuleva M, Petrova A, Milrad Y, Semenov A, Ivanov B, Redding KE, Yacoby I. Phylloquinone is the principal Mehler reaction site within photosystem I in high light. PLANT PHYSIOLOGY 2021; 186:1848-1858. [PMID: 34618103 PMCID: PMC8331129 DOI: 10.1093/plphys/kiab221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2021] [Accepted: 04/22/2021] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
Photosynthesis is a vital process, responsible for fixing carbon dioxide, and producing most of the organic matter on the planet. However, photosynthesis has some inherent limitations in utilizing solar energy, and a part of the energy absorbed is lost in the reduction of O2 to produce the superoxide radical (O2•-) via the Mehler reaction, which occurs principally within photosystem I (PSI). For decades, O2 reduction within PSI was assumed to take place solely in the distal iron-sulfur clusters rather than within the two asymmetrical cofactor branches. Here, we demonstrate that under high irradiance, O2 photoreduction by PSI primarily takes place at the phylloquinone of one of the branches (the A-branch). This conclusion derives from the light dependency of the O2 photoreduction rate constant in fully mature wild-type PSI from Chlamydomonas reinhardtii, complexes lacking iron-sulfur clusters, and a mutant PSI, in which phyllosemiquinone at the A-branch has a significantly longer lifetime. We suggest that the Mehler reaction at the phylloquinone site serves as a release valve under conditions where both the iron-sulfur clusters of PSI and the mobile ferredoxin pool are highly reduced.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Kozuleva
- School of Plant Sciences and Food Security, The George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
- Institute of Basic Biological Problems of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Federal Research Center, Pushchino Scientific Center for Biological Research of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Pushchino, Russia
| | - Anastasia Petrova
- A.N. Belozersky Institute of Physical-Chemical Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Yuval Milrad
- School of Plant Sciences and Food Security, The George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
| | - Alexey Semenov
- A.N. Belozersky Institute of Physical-Chemical Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Boris Ivanov
- Institute of Basic Biological Problems of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Federal Research Center, Pushchino Scientific Center for Biological Research of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Pushchino, Russia
| | - Kevin E Redding
- School of Molecular Sciences and Center for Bioenergy and Photosynthesis, Arizona State University, Tempe, USA
| | - Iftach Yacoby
- School of Plant Sciences and Food Security, The George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
- Author for communication:
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11
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Milrad Y, Schweitzer S, Feldman Y, Yacoby I. Bi-directional electron transfer between H2 and NADPH mitigates light fluctuation responses in green algae. PLANT PHYSIOLOGY 2021; 186:168-179. [PMID: 33793951 PMCID: PMC8154092 DOI: 10.1093/plphys/kiab051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2021] [Accepted: 01/21/2021] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
The metabolism of green algae has been the focus of much research over the last century. These photosynthetic organisms can thrive under various conditions and adapt quickly to changing environments by concomitant usage of several metabolic apparatuses. The main electron coordinator in their chloroplasts, nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH), participates in many enzymatic activities and is also responsible for inter-organellar communication. Under anaerobic conditions, green algae also accumulate molecular hydrogen (H2), a promising alternative for fossil fuels. However, to scale-up its accumulation, a firm understanding of its integration in the photosynthetic apparatus is still required. While it is generally accepted that NADPH metabolism correlates to H2 accumulation, the mechanism of this collaboration is still vague and relies on indirect measurements. Here, we investigated this connection in Chlamydomonas reinhardtii using simultaneous measurements of both dissolved gases concentration, NADPH fluorescence and electrochromic shifts at 520-546 nm. Our results indicate that energy transfer between H2 and NADPH is bi-directional and crucial for the maintenance of redox balance under light fluctuations. At light onset, NADPH consumption initially eventuates in H2 evolution, which initiates the photosynthetic electron flow. Later on, as illumination continues the majority of NADPH is diverted to the Calvin-Benson-Bassham cycle. Dark onset triggers re-assimilation of H2, which produces NADPH and so, enables initiation of dark fermentative metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuval Milrad
- School of Plant Sciences and Food Security, The George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Ramat Aviv, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
| | - Shira Schweitzer
- School of Plant Sciences and Food Security, The George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Ramat Aviv, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
| | - Yael Feldman
- School of Plant Sciences and Food Security, The George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Ramat Aviv, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
| | - Iftach Yacoby
- School of Plant Sciences and Food Security, The George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Ramat Aviv, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
- Author for communication: (I.Y.)
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12
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El-Dalatony MM, Zheng Y, Ji MK, Li X, Salama ES. Metabolic pathways for microalgal biohydrogen production: Current progress and future prospectives. BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY 2020; 318:124253. [PMID: 33129070 DOI: 10.1016/j.biortech.2020.124253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2020] [Revised: 10/06/2020] [Accepted: 10/09/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Microalgal biohydrogen (bioH2) has attracted global interest owing to its potential carbon-free source of sustainable renewable energy. Most of previous reviews which focused on microalgal bioH2, have shown unclear differentiation among the metabolic pathways. In this review, investigation of all different metabolic pathways for microalgal bioH2 production along with discussion on the recent research work of last 5-years have been considered. The major factors (such as light, vital nutrients, microalgal cell density, and substrate bioavailability) are highlighted. Moreover, effect of various pretreatment approaches on the constituent's bioaccessibility is reported. Microbial electrolysis cells as a new strategy for bioH2 production is stated. Comparison between the operation conditions of various bioreactors and economic feasibility is also emphasized. Genetic, metabolic engineering, and synthetic biology as recent technologies improved the microalgal bioH2 production through inactivation of uptake hydrogenase (H2ase), inhibition of the competing pathways in polysaccharide synthesis, and improving the O2 tolerant H2ase.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marwa M El-Dalatony
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, Gansu Province, PR China; School of Life Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, Gansu Province, PR China
| | - Yuanzhang Zheng
- Department of Molecular Biology, School of Medicine Biochemistry, Indiana University, Indianapolis 46202, USA
| | - Min-Kyu Ji
- Environmental Assessment Group, Korea Environment Institute, Yeongi-gun 30147, South Korea
| | - Xiangkai Li
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, Gansu Province, PR China
| | - El-Sayed Salama
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, Gansu Province, PR China.
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Water oxidation by photosystem II is the primary source of electrons for sustained H 2 photoproduction in nutrient-replete green algae. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2020; 117:29629-29636. [PMID: 33168746 PMCID: PMC7703569 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2009210117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Photosynthetic H2 production in the green alga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii is catalyzed by O2-sensitive [FeFe]-hydrogenases, which accept electrons from photosynthetically reduced ferredoxin and reduce protons to H2. Since the process occurs downstream of photosystem I, the contribution of photosystem II (PSII) in H2 photoproduction has long been a subject of debate. Indeed, water oxidation by PSII results in O2 accumulation in chloroplasts, which inhibits H2 evolution. Therefore, clear evidence for direct water biophotolysis resulting in simultaneous H2 and O2 releases in algae has never been presented. This paper demonstrates that sustained H2 photoproduction in C. reinhardtii is directly linked to PSII-dependent water oxidation and brings insights into regulation of PSII activity and H2 production by CO2/HCO3– under microoxic conditions. The unicellular green alga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii is capable of photosynthetic H2 production. H2 evolution occurs under anaerobic conditions and is difficult to sustain due to 1) competition between [FeFe]-hydrogenase (H2ase), the key enzyme responsible for H2 metabolism in algae, and the Calvin–Benson–Bassham (CBB) cycle for photosynthetic reductants and 2) inactivation of H2ase by O2 coevolved in photosynthesis. Recently, we achieved sustainable H2 photoproduction by shifting algae from continuous illumination to a train of short (1 s) light pulses, interrupted by longer (9 s) dark periods. This illumination regime prevents activation of the CBB cycle and redirects photosynthetic electrons to H2ase. Employing membrane-inlet mass spectrometry and H218O, we now present clear evidence that efficient H2 photoproduction in pulse-illuminated algae depends primarily on direct water biophotolysis, where water oxidation at the donor side of photosystem II (PSII) provides electrons for the reduction of protons by H2ase downstream of photosystem I. This occurs exclusively in the absence of CO2 fixation, while with the activation of the CBB cycle by longer (8 s) light pulses the H2 photoproduction ceases and instead a slow overall H2 uptake is observed. We also demonstrate that the loss of PSII activity in DCMU-treated algae or in PSII-deficient mutant cells can be partly compensated for by the indirect (PSII-independent) H2 photoproduction pathway, but only for a short (<1 h) period. Thus, PSII activity is indispensable for a sustained process, where it is responsible for more than 92% of the final H2 yield.
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Burlacot A, Burlacot F, Li-Beisson Y, Peltier G. Membrane Inlet Mass Spectrometry: A Powerful Tool for Algal Research. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2020; 11:1302. [PMID: 33013952 PMCID: PMC7500362 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2020.01302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2020] [Accepted: 08/11/2020] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
Since the first great oxygenation event, photosynthetic microorganisms have continuously shaped the Earth's atmosphere. Studying biological mechanisms involved in the interaction between microalgae and cyanobacteria with the Earth's atmosphere requires the monitoring of gas exchange. Membrane inlet mass spectrometry (MIMS) has been developed in the early 1960s to study gas exchange mechanisms of photosynthetic cells. It has since played an important role in investigating various cellular processes that involve gaseous compounds (O2, CO2, NO, or H2) and in characterizing enzymatic activities in vitro or in vivo. With the development of affordable mass spectrometers, MIMS is gaining wide popularity and is now used by an increasing number of laboratories. However, it still requires an important theory and practical considerations to be used. Here, we provide a practical guide describing the current technical basis of a MIMS setup and the general principles of data processing. We further review how MIMS can be used to study various aspects of algal research and discuss how MIMS will be useful in addressing future scientific challenges.
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Abstract
The biological process of photosynthesis was critical in catalyzing the oxygenation of Earth’s atmosphere 2.5 billion years ago, changing the course of development of life on Earth. Recently, the fields of applied and synthetic photosynthesis have utilized the light-driven protein–pigment supercomplexes central to photosynthesis for the photocatalytic production of fuel and other various valuable products. The reaction center Photosystem I is of particular interest in applied photosynthesis due to its high stability post-purification, non-geopolitical limitation, and its ability to generate the greatest reducing power found in nature. These remarkable properties have been harnessed for the photocatalytic production of a number of valuable products in the applied photosynthesis research field. These primarily include photocurrents and molecular hydrogen as fuels. The use of artificial reaction centers to generate substrates and reducing equivalents to drive non-photoactive enzymes for valuable product generation has been a long-standing area of interest in the synthetic photosynthesis research field. In this review, we cover advances in these areas and further speculate synthetic and applied photosynthesis as photocatalysts for the generation of valuable products.
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Petrova EV, Kukarskikh GP, Krendeleva TE, Antal TK. The Mechanisms and Role of Photosynthetic Hydrogen Production by Green Microalgae. Microbiology (Reading) 2020. [DOI: 10.1134/s0026261720030169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
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Wei L, Fan B, Yi J, Xie T, Liu K, Ma W. Mechanistic insights into pH-dependent H 2 photoproduction in bisulfite-treated Chlamydomonas cells. BIOTECHNOLOGY FOR BIOFUELS 2020; 13:64. [PMID: 32280372 PMCID: PMC7132995 DOI: 10.1186/s13068-020-01704-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2019] [Accepted: 03/27/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Bisulfite addition is an important H2 photoproduction strategy that removes O2 and activates hydrogenase. The pH values of cell cultures can change the ratio of bisulfite to sulfite, which may affect H2 photoproduction. However, little is known regarding the pH effect of bisulfite addition on H2 photoproduction and relevant underlying mechanism. RESULTS Here, changes in H2 photoproduction with different initial extracellular pH values showed a parabolic distribution and a pH of 8.0 is an optimal value for H2 photoproduction in Chlamydomonas reinhardtii cells treated with bisulfite. Compared to the growth pH (pH 7.3), increased photoproduction of H2 at this optimal pH was primarily caused by a relatively high residual activity of photosystem II (PSII), which provides a relatively plentiful source of electrons for H2 photoproduction. Such increased H2 photoproduction was most likely a result of decreased the ratio of bisulfite to sulfite, consistent with the result that the toxicity of bisulfite on PSII was much more than that of sulfite. This possibility was corroborated by the result that treatment with a combination of 7 mM bisulfite and 6 mM sulfite further enhanced H2 photoproduction compared with 13 mM bisulfite alone. CONCLUSIONS Collectively, our findings provide novel mechanistic insights into pH-dependent H2 photoproduction in C. reinhardtii cells treated with bisulfite, and demonstrate that sulfite addition is another important strategy for H2 photoproduction, just like bisulfite addition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lanzhen Wei
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Plant Molecular Sciences, College of Life Sciences, Shanghai Normal University, Guilin Road 100, Shanghai, 200234 China
| | - Baoqiang Fan
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Plant Molecular Sciences, College of Life Sciences, Shanghai Normal University, Guilin Road 100, Shanghai, 200234 China
| | - Jing Yi
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Plant Molecular Sciences, College of Life Sciences, Shanghai Normal University, Guilin Road 100, Shanghai, 200234 China
| | - Tianqun Xie
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Plant Molecular Sciences, College of Life Sciences, Shanghai Normal University, Guilin Road 100, Shanghai, 200234 China
| | - Kun Liu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Plant Molecular Sciences, College of Life Sciences, Shanghai Normal University, Guilin Road 100, Shanghai, 200234 China
| | - Weimin Ma
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Plant Molecular Sciences, College of Life Sciences, Shanghai Normal University, Guilin Road 100, Shanghai, 200234 China
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Roumezi B, Avilan L, Risoul V, Brugna M, Rabouille S, Latifi A. Overproduction of the Flv3B flavodiiron, enhances the photobiological hydrogen production by the nitrogen-fixing cyanobacterium Nostoc PCC 7120. Microb Cell Fact 2020; 19:65. [PMID: 32156284 PMCID: PMC7063810 DOI: 10.1186/s12934-020-01320-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2019] [Accepted: 02/27/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The ability of some photosynthetic microorganisms, particularly cyanobacteria and microalgae, to produce hydrogen (H2) is a promising alternative for renewable, clean-energy production. However, the most recent, related studies point out that much improvement is needed for sustainable cyanobacterial-based H2 production to become economically viable. In this study, we investigated the impact of induced O2-consumption on H2 photoproduction yields in the heterocyte-forming, N2-fixing cyanobacterium Nostoc PCC7120. Results The flv3B gene, encoding a flavodiiron protein naturally expressed in Nostoc heterocytes, was overexpressed. Under aerobic and phototrophic growth conditions, the recombinant strain displayed a significantly higher H2 production than the wild type. Nitrogenase activity assays indicated that flv3B overexpression did not enhance the nitrogen fixation rates. Interestingly, the transcription of the hox genes, encoding the NiFe Hox hydrogenase, was significantly elevated, as shown by the quantitative RT-PCR analyses. Conclusion We conclude that the overproduced Flv3B protein might have enhanced O2-consumption, thus creating conditions inducing hox genes and facilitating H2 production. The present study clearly demonstrates the potential to use metabolic engineered cyanobacteria for photosynthesis driven H2 production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baptiste Roumezi
- Aix Marseille Univ, CNRS, LCB, Laboratoire de Chimie Bactérienne, Marseille, France
| | - Luisana Avilan
- Aix Marseille Univ, CNRS, BIP, Laboratoire de Bioénergétique et Ingénierie des Protéines, Marseille, France
| | - Véronique Risoul
- Aix Marseille Univ, CNRS, LCB, Laboratoire de Chimie Bactérienne, Marseille, France
| | - Myriam Brugna
- Aix Marseille Univ, CNRS, BIP, Laboratoire de Bioénergétique et Ingénierie des Protéines, Marseille, France
| | - Sophie Rabouille
- Sorbonne Université, CNRS, Laboratoire d'Océanographie de Villefanche, LOV, 06230, Villefranche-sur-Mer, France.,Sorbonne Université, CNRS, Laboratoire d'Océanographie Microbienne, LOMIC, 66650, Banyuls-sur-Mer, France
| | - Amel Latifi
- Aix Marseille Univ, CNRS, LCB, Laboratoire de Chimie Bactérienne, Marseille, France.
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Anwar M, Lou S, Chen L, Li H, Hu Z. Recent advancement and strategy on bio-hydrogen production from photosynthetic microalgae. BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY 2019; 292:121972. [PMID: 31444119 DOI: 10.1016/j.biortech.2019.121972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2019] [Revised: 08/06/2019] [Accepted: 08/07/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Recently, ensuring energy security is a key challenge to political and economic strength in the world. Bio-hydrogen production from microalgae is the promising alternative source for potential renewable and self-sustainability energy but still in the initial phase of development. Practically and sustainability of microalgae hydrogen production is still debatable. The genetic engineering and metabolic pathway engineering of hydrogenase and nitrogenase play a key role to enhance hydrogen production. Microalgae have photosynthetic efficiency and synthesize huge carbohydrate biomass, used as 4th generation feedstock to generate bio-hydrogen. Recent genetically modified strains of microalgae are the attractive source for enhancing bio-hydrogen production in the future. The potential of hydrogen production from microRNAs are gaining great interest of researcher. The main objective of this review is attentive discussed recent approaches on new molecular genetics engineering and metabolic pathway developments, modern photo-bioreactors efficiency, economic assessment, limitations and knowledge gap of bio-hydrogen production from microalgae.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Anwar
- Guangdong Technology Research Center for Marine Algal Bioengineering, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Plant Epigenetics, College of Life Sciences and Oceanography, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory of Optoelectronic Devices and Systems of Ministry of Education and Guangdong Province, College of Optoelectronic Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, People's Republic of China
| | - Sulin Lou
- Guangdong Technology Research Center for Marine Algal Bioengineering, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Plant Epigenetics, College of Life Sciences and Oceanography, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, People's Republic of China
| | - Liu Chen
- Guangdong Technology Research Center for Marine Algal Bioengineering, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Plant Epigenetics, College of Life Sciences and Oceanography, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory of Optoelectronic Devices and Systems of Ministry of Education and Guangdong Province, College of Optoelectronic Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, People's Republic of China
| | - Hui Li
- Guangdong Technology Research Center for Marine Algal Bioengineering, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Plant Epigenetics, College of Life Sciences and Oceanography, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, People's Republic of China; Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Marine Bioresource & Eco-environmental Science, Longhua Innovation Institute for Biotechnology, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhangli Hu
- Guangdong Technology Research Center for Marine Algal Bioengineering, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Plant Epigenetics, College of Life Sciences and Oceanography, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, People's Republic of China; Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Marine Bioresource & Eco-environmental Science, Longhua Innovation Institute for Biotechnology, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, People's Republic of China.
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Lu Y, Koo J. O 2 sensitivity and H 2 production activity of hydrogenases-A review. Biotechnol Bioeng 2019; 116:3124-3135. [PMID: 31403182 DOI: 10.1002/bit.27136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2019] [Revised: 07/23/2019] [Accepted: 08/05/2019] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Hydrogenases are metalloproteins capable of catalyzing the interconversion between molecular hydrogen and protons and electrons. The iron-sulfur clusters within the enzyme enable rapid relay of electrons which are either consumed or generated at the active site. Their unparalleled catalytic efficiency has attracted attention, especially for potential use in H2 production and/or fuel cell technologies. However, there are limitations to using hydrogenases, especially due to their high O2 sensitivity. The subclass, called [FeFe] hydrogenases, are particularly more vulnerable to O2 but proficient in H2 production. In this review, we provide an overview of mechanistic and protein engineering studies focused on understanding and enhancing O2 tolerance of the enzyme. The emphasis is on ongoing studies that attempt to overcome O2 sensitivity of the enzyme while it catalyzes H2 production in an aerobic environment. We also discuss pioneering attempts to utilize the enzyme in biological H2 production and other industrial processes, as well as our own perspective on future applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Lu
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Jamin Koo
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Hongik University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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22
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Jokel M, Nagy V, Tóth SZ, Kosourov S, Allahverdiyeva Y. Elimination of the flavodiiron electron sink facilitates long-term H 2 photoproduction in green algae. BIOTECHNOLOGY FOR BIOFUELS 2019; 12:280. [PMID: 31827608 PMCID: PMC6894204 DOI: 10.1186/s13068-019-1618-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2019] [Accepted: 11/23/2019] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The development of renewable and sustainable biofuels to cover the future energy demand is one of the most challenging issues of our time. Biohydrogen, produced by photosynthetic microorganisms, has the potential to become a green biofuel and energy carrier for the future sustainable world, since it provides energy without CO2 emission. The recent development of two alternative protocols to induce hydrogen photoproduction in green algae enables the function of the O2-sensitive [FeFe]-hydrogenases, located at the acceptor side of photosystem I, to produce H2 for several days. These protocols prevent carbon fixation and redirect electrons toward H2 production. In the present work, we employed these protocols to a knockout Chlamydomonas reinhardtii mutant lacking flavodiiron proteins (FDPs), thus removing another possible electron competitor with H2 production. RESULTS The deletion of the FDP electron sink resulted in the enhancement of H2 photoproduction relative to wild-type C. reinhardtii. Additionally, the lack of FDPs leads to a more effective obstruction of carbon fixation even under elongated light pulses. CONCLUSIONS We demonstrated that the rather simple adjustment of cultivation conditions together with genetic manipulation of alternative electron pathways of photosynthesis results in efficient re-routing of electrons toward H2 photoproduction. Furthermore, the introduction of a short recovery phase by regular switching from H2 photoproduction to biomass accumulation phase allows to maintain cell fitness and use photosynthetic cells as long-term H2-producing biocatalysts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina Jokel
- Molecular Plant Biology, Department of Biochemistry, University of Turku, 20014 Turku, Finland
| | - Valéria Nagy
- Molecular Plant Biology, Department of Biochemistry, University of Turku, 20014 Turku, Finland
| | - Szilvia Z. Tóth
- Institute of Plant Biology, Biological Research Centre, Szeged, Temesvári krt. 62, Szeged, 6726 Hungary
| | - Sergey Kosourov
- Molecular Plant Biology, Department of Biochemistry, University of Turku, 20014 Turku, Finland
| | - Yagut Allahverdiyeva
- Molecular Plant Biology, Department of Biochemistry, University of Turku, 20014 Turku, Finland
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Nikolova D, Heilmann C, Hawat S, Gäbelein P, Hippler M. Absolute quantification of selected photosynthetic electron transfer proteins in Chlamydomonas reinhardtii in the presence and absence of oxygen. PHOTOSYNTHESIS RESEARCH 2018; 137:281-293. [PMID: 29594952 DOI: 10.1007/s11120-018-0502-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2017] [Accepted: 03/22/2018] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
The absolute amount of plastocyanin (PC), ferredoxin-NADP+-oxidoreductase (FNR), hydrogenase (HYDA1), and ferredoxin 5 (FDX5) were quantified in aerobic and anaerobic Chlamydomonas reinhardtii whole cells using purified (recombinant) proteins as internal standards in a mass spectrometric approach. Quantified protein amounts were related to the estimated amount of PSI. The ratios of PC to FNR to HYDA1 to FDX5 in aerobic cells were determined to be 1.4:1.2:0.003:0. In anaerobic cells, the ratios changed to 1.1:1.3:0.019:0.027 (PC:FNR:HYDA1:FDX5). Employing sodium dithionite and methyl viologen as electron donors, the specific activity of hydrogenase in whole cells was calculated to be 382 ± 96.5 μmolH2 min-1 mg-1. Importantly, these data reveal an about 70-fold lower abundance of HYDA1 compared to FNR. Despite this great disproportion between both proteins, which might further enhance the competition for electrons, the alga is capable of hydrogen production under anaerobic conditions, thus pointing to an efficient channeling mechanism of electrons from FDX1 to the HYDA1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Denitsa Nikolova
- Institut für Biologie und Biotechnologie der Pflanzen, Westfälische Wilhelms-Universität Münster, Schlossplatz 8, 48143, Münster, Germany
| | - Claudia Heilmann
- Institut für Biologie und Biotechnologie der Pflanzen, Westfälische Wilhelms-Universität Münster, Schlossplatz 8, 48143, Münster, Germany
| | - Susan Hawat
- Institut für Biologie und Biotechnologie der Pflanzen, Westfälische Wilhelms-Universität Münster, Schlossplatz 8, 48143, Münster, Germany
| | - Philipp Gäbelein
- Institut für Biologie und Biotechnologie der Pflanzen, Westfälische Wilhelms-Universität Münster, Schlossplatz 8, 48143, Münster, Germany
| | - Michael Hippler
- Institut für Biologie und Biotechnologie der Pflanzen, Westfälische Wilhelms-Universität Münster, Schlossplatz 8, 48143, Münster, Germany.
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Burlacot A, Sawyer A, Cuiné S, Auroy-Tarrago P, Blangy S, Happe T, Peltier G. Flavodiiron-Mediated O 2 Photoreduction Links H 2 Production with CO 2 Fixation during the Anaerobic Induction of Photosynthesis. PLANT PHYSIOLOGY 2018; 177:1639-1649. [PMID: 29976836 PMCID: PMC6084654 DOI: 10.1104/pp.18.00721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2018] [Accepted: 06/25/2018] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
Some microalgae, such as Chlamydomonas reinhardtii, harbor a highly flexible photosynthetic apparatus capable of using different electron acceptors, including carbon dioxide (CO2), protons, or oxygen (O2), allowing survival in diverse habitats. During anaerobic induction of photosynthesis, molecular O2 is produced at photosystem II, while at the photosystem I acceptor side, the reduction of protons into hydrogen (H2) by the plastidial [FeFe]-hydrogenases primes CO2 fixation. Although the interaction between H2 production and CO2 fixation has been studied extensively, their interplay with O2 produced by photosynthesis has not been considered. By simultaneously measuring gas exchange and chlorophyll fluorescence, we identified an O2 photoreduction mechanism that functions during anaerobic dark-to-light transitions and demonstrate that flavodiiron proteins (Flvs) are the major players involved in light-dependent O2 uptake. We further show that Flv-mediated O2 uptake is critical for the rapid induction of CO2 fixation but is not involved in the creation of the micro-oxic niches proposed previously to protect the [FeFe]-hydrogenase from O2 By studying a mutant lacking both hydrogenases (HYDA1 and HYDA2) and both Flvs (FLVA and FLVB), we show that the induction of photosynthesis is strongly delayed in the absence of both sets of proteins. Based on these data, we propose that Flvs are involved in an important intracellular O2 recycling process, which acts as a relay between H2 production and CO2 fixation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adrien Burlacot
- Laboratoire de Bioénergétique et de Biotechnologie des Microalgues, BIAM, CEA, CNRS, Aix Marseille Univ, F-13108 Saint-Paul-lez-Durance, France
| | - Anne Sawyer
- AG Photobiotechnologie, Lehrstuhl für Biochemie der Pflanzen, Fakultät für Biologie und Biotechnologie, Ruhr-Universität Bochum, 44801 Bochum, Germany
| | - Stéphan Cuiné
- Laboratoire de Bioénergétique et de Biotechnologie des Microalgues, BIAM, CEA, CNRS, Aix Marseille Univ, F-13108 Saint-Paul-lez-Durance, France
| | - Pascaline Auroy-Tarrago
- Laboratoire de Bioénergétique et de Biotechnologie des Microalgues, BIAM, CEA, CNRS, Aix Marseille Univ, F-13108 Saint-Paul-lez-Durance, France
| | - Stéphanie Blangy
- Laboratoire de Bioénergétique et de Biotechnologie des Microalgues, BIAM, CEA, CNRS, Aix Marseille Univ, F-13108 Saint-Paul-lez-Durance, France
| | - Thomas Happe
- AG Photobiotechnologie, Lehrstuhl für Biochemie der Pflanzen, Fakultät für Biologie und Biotechnologie, Ruhr-Universität Bochum, 44801 Bochum, Germany
| | - Gilles Peltier
- Laboratoire de Bioénergétique et de Biotechnologie des Microalgues, BIAM, CEA, CNRS, Aix Marseille Univ, F-13108 Saint-Paul-lez-Durance, France
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Milrad Y, Schweitzer S, Feldman Y, Yacoby I. Green Algal Hydrogenase Activity Is Outcompeted by Carbon Fixation before Inactivation by Oxygen Takes Place. PLANT PHYSIOLOGY 2018; 177:918-926. [PMID: 29784766 PMCID: PMC6053004 DOI: 10.1104/pp.18.00229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2018] [Accepted: 05/11/2018] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
Photoproduction of hydrogen by green algae is considered a transitory release valve of excess reducing power and a potential carbon-free source of sustainable energy. It is generally accepted that the transitory production of hydrogen is governed by fast inactivation of hydrogenase by oxygen. However, our data suggest that photosynthetic electron loss to competing processes, mainly carbon fixation, stops hydrogen production, supports hydrogen uptake, and precedes the inevitable inactivation by oxygen. Here, we show that when transitioning from dark anaerobiosis to light, hydrogen production ceases within 2 min, regardless of the presence of oxygen. Simultaneous monitoring of the active hydrogenase pool size shows that it remains entirely intact up to 4 min after illumination and is inactivated only later. Thus, our data reveal a window of 4 min in which the hydrogenase pool is not being degraded by oxygen. Furthermore, we show that electron loss, prominently to carbon fixation, outcompetes hydrogen production and leads to hydrogen uptake. Indeed, supplying additional reducing power to hydrogenase at the cessation point regenerates the accumulation of hydrogen. Our results imply the fast cessation of hydrogen production is governed by electron loss rather than oxygen inactivation, which takes place minutes later.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuval Milrad
- School of Plant Sciences and Food Security, The George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Ramat Aviv, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
| | - Shira Schweitzer
- School of Plant Sciences and Food Security, The George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Ramat Aviv, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
| | - Yael Feldman
- School of Plant Sciences and Food Security, The George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Ramat Aviv, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
| | - Iftach Yacoby
- School of Plant Sciences and Food Security, The George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Ramat Aviv, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
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Weiner I, Shahar N, Feldman Y, Landman S, Milrad Y, Ben-Zvi O, Avitan M, Dafni E, Schweitzer S, Eilenberg H, Atar S, Diament A, Tuller T, Yacoby I. Overcoming the expression barrier of the ferredoxin‑hydrogenase chimera in Chlamydomonas reinhardtii supports a linear increment in photosynthetic hydrogen output. ALGAL RES 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.algal.2018.06.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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27
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Nagy V, Podmaniczki A, Vidal-Meireles A, Tengölics R, Kovács L, Rákhely G, Scoma A, Tóth SZ. Water-splitting-based, sustainable and efficient H 2 production in green algae as achieved by substrate limitation of the Calvin-Benson-Bassham cycle. BIOTECHNOLOGY FOR BIOFUELS 2018; 11:69. [PMID: 29560024 PMCID: PMC5858145 DOI: 10.1186/s13068-018-1069-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2017] [Accepted: 03/07/2018] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Photobiological H2 production has the potential of becoming a carbon-free renewable energy source, because upon the combustion of H2, only water is produced. The [Fe-Fe]-type hydrogenases of green algae are highly active, although extremely O2-sensitive. Sulphur deprivation is a common way to induce H2 production, which, however, relies substantially on organic substrates and imposes a severe stress effect resulting in the degradation of the photosynthetic apparatus. RESULTS We report on the establishment of an alternative H2 production method by green algae that is based on a short anaerobic induction, keeping the Calvin-Benson-Bassham cycle inactive by substrate limitation and preserving hydrogenase activity by applying a simple catalyst to remove the evolved O2. Cultures remain photosynthetically active for several days, with the electrons feeding the hydrogenases mostly derived from water. The amount of H2 produced is higher as compared to the sulphur-deprivation procedure and the process is photoautotrophic. CONCLUSION Our protocol demonstrates that it is possible to sustainably use algal cells as whole-cell catalysts for H2 production, which enables industrial application of algal biohydrogen production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valéria Nagy
- Institute of Plant Biology, Biological Research Centre of the Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Szeged, Temesvári krt. 62, 6726 Szeged, Hungary
| | - Anna Podmaniczki
- Institute of Plant Biology, Biological Research Centre of the Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Szeged, Temesvári krt. 62, 6726 Szeged, Hungary
| | - André Vidal-Meireles
- Institute of Plant Biology, Biological Research Centre of the Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Szeged, Temesvári krt. 62, 6726 Szeged, Hungary
| | - Roland Tengölics
- Institute of Biochemistry, Biological Research Centre of the Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Szeged, Temesvári krt. 62, 6726 Szeged, Hungary
| | - László Kovács
- Institute of Plant Biology, Biological Research Centre of the Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Szeged, Temesvári krt. 62, 6726 Szeged, Hungary
| | - Gábor Rákhely
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Szeged, Közép fasor 52, 6726 Szeged, Hungary
- Institute of Biophysics, Biological Research Centre of the Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Szeged, Temesvári krt. 62, 6726 Szeged, Hungary
| | - Alberto Scoma
- Center for Geomicrobiology, Aarhus University, Ny Munkegade 116, 8000 Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Szilvia Z. Tóth
- Institute of Plant Biology, Biological Research Centre of the Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Szeged, Temesvári krt. 62, 6726 Szeged, Hungary
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Khetkorn W, Rastogi RP, Incharoensakdi A, Lindblad P, Madamwar D, Pandey A, Larroche C. Microalgal hydrogen production - A review. BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY 2017; 243:1194-1206. [PMID: 28774676 DOI: 10.1016/j.biortech.2017.07.085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2017] [Revised: 07/13/2017] [Accepted: 07/17/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Bio-hydrogen from microalgae including cyanobacteria has attracted commercial awareness due to its potential as an alternative, reliable and renewable energy source. Photosynthetic hydrogen production from microalgae can be interesting and promising options for clean energy. Advances in hydrogen-fuel-cell technology may attest an eco-friendly way of biofuel production, since, the use of H2 to generate electricity releases only water as a by-product. Progress in genetic/metabolic engineering may significantly enhance the photobiological hydrogen production from microalgae. Manipulation of competing metabolic pathways by modulating the certain key enzymes such as hydrogenase and nitrogenase may enhance the evolution of H2 from photoautotrophic cells. Moreover, biological H2 production at low operating costs is requisite for economic viability. Several photobioreactors have been developed for large-scale biomass and hydrogen production. This review highlights the recent technological progress, enzymes involved and genetic as well as metabolic engineering approaches towards sustainable hydrogen production from microalgae.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wanthanee Khetkorn
- Division of Biology, Faculty of Science and Technology, Rajamangala University of Technology Thanyaburi, Thanyaburi, Pathumthani 12110, Thailand
| | - Rajesh P Rastogi
- Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Indira Paryavaran Bhawan, Jor Bagh Road, New Delhi 110 003, India.
| | - Aran Incharoensakdi
- Laboratory of Cyanobacterial Biotechnology, Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University, Phayathai Road, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
| | - Peter Lindblad
- Microbial Chemistry, Department of Chemistry-Ångström, Uppsala University, Box 523, SE-75120 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Datta Madamwar
- Department of Biosciences, UGC-Centre of Advanced Study, Sardar Patel University, Vadtal Road, Satellite Campus, Bakrol, Anand, Gujarat 388 315, India
| | - Ashok Pandey
- Center of Innovative and Applied Bioprocessing, C-127 2nd Floor Phase 8 Industrial Area, SAS Nagar, Mohali 160 071, Punjab, India
| | - Christian Larroche
- Labex IMobS3 and Institut Pascal, 4 Avenue Blaise Pascal, TSA 60026/CS 60026, 63178 Aubière Cedex, France
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Volgusheva AA, Jokel M, Allahverdiyeva Y, Kukarskikh GP, Lukashev EP, Lambreva MD, Krendeleva TE, Antal TK. Comparative analyses of H 2 photoproduction in magnesium- and sulfur-starved Chlamydomonas reinhardtii cultures. PHYSIOLOGIA PLANTARUM 2017; 161:124-137. [PMID: 28386962 DOI: 10.1111/ppl.12576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2016] [Revised: 02/09/2017] [Accepted: 02/27/2017] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Magnesium (Mg)-deprived Chlamydomonas reinhardtii cells are capable to sustain hydrogen (H2 ) photoproduction at relatively high photosystem II (PSII) activity levels for an extended time period as compared with sulfur (S)-deprived cells. Herein, we present a comparative study of H2 photoproduction induced by Mg and S shortage to unravel the specific rearrangements of the photosynthetic machinery and cell metabolism occurring under the two deprivation protocols. The exhaustive analysis of photosynthetic activity and regulatory pathways, respiration and starch metabolism revealed the specific rearrangements of the photosynthetic machinery and cellular metabolism, which occur under the two deprivation conditions. The obtained results allowed us to conclude that the expanded time period of H2 production upon Mg-deprivation is due to the less harmful effects that Mg-depletion has on viability and metabolic performance of the cells. Unlike S-deprivation, the photosynthetic light and dark reactions in Mg-deprived cells remained active over the whole H2 production period. However, the elevated PSII activity in Mg-deprived cells was counteracted by the operation of pathways for O2 consumption that maintain anaerobic conditions in the presence of active water splitting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alena A Volgusheva
- Department of Biophysics, Faculty of Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, 119991, Russia
| | - Martina Jokel
- Molecular Plant Biology, Department of Biochemistry, University of Turku, Turku, FI-20014, Finland
| | - Yagut Allahverdiyeva
- Molecular Plant Biology, Department of Biochemistry, University of Turku, Turku, FI-20014, Finland
| | - Galina P Kukarskikh
- Department of Biophysics, Faculty of Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, 119991, Russia
| | - Eugeni P Lukashev
- Department of Biophysics, Faculty of Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, 119991, Russia
| | - Maya D Lambreva
- Institute of Crystallography, National Research Council of Italy, Rome, Italy
| | - Tatayana E Krendeleva
- Department of Biophysics, Faculty of Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, 119991, Russia
| | - Taras K Antal
- Department of Biophysics, Faculty of Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, 119991, Russia
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Rhodes CJ. Genetically modified algae produce hydrogen biofuel at five times their normal yield. Sci Prog 2016; 99:450-451. [PMID: 28742483 PMCID: PMC10365491 DOI: 10.3184/003685016x14773090197661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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