Marine Microalgal Genes: Unlocking a New Era of Sustainable High Value PUFA Production for Neuroprotective Applications
Abstract
The growing global demand for sustainable and nutritionally valuable polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), particularly omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, has intensified efforts to develop alternative and reliable production systems. Marine microalgae represent an attractive biological resource due to their intrinsic capacity to produce high-value PUFAs, including eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). This review critically examines the genetic and biochemical potential of marine microalgae as sources of PUFA biosynthetic genes for biotechnological applications. Emphasis is placed on the distinct PUFA biosynthetic pathways operating in microalgae, with particular focus on the functional roles of key desaturase and elongase enzymes. Recent advances in omics-based analyses, synthetic biology, and metabolic engineering are discussed in relation to strategies for improving PUFA accumulation via heterologous expression of microalgal genes in terrestrial oilseed crops and microbial hosts. In addition, the review highlights current challenges and future perspectives associated with the exploitation of microalgal genetic resources, including pathway regulation, strain optimization, and translational feasibility. By integrating insights from marine biotechnology and metabolic engineering, this work outlines emerging approaches toward sustainable, scalable, and efficient production of high-value polyunsaturated fatty acids.
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