Through the use of CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing, researchers have successfully developed stable euglena mutants capable of producing wax esters that have better cold flow properties, making them ideal for use as biofuel feedstock.
Discussions surrounding biofuels often reference used cooking oil as a resource. However, when these oils contain animal fats, they may solidify in lower temperatures. This occurs because the fatty acids in these saturated fats possess long carbon chains connected by single bonds. This is where euglena comes into play. A team from Osaka Metropolitan University has discovered a technique that enables a specific species of this microalgae to produce wax esters with shorter carbon chains than typical.
By applying CRISPR/Cas9 to modify the genome of Euglena gracilis, Dr. Masami Nakazawa and her colleagues at the Graduate School of Agriculture’s Department of Applied Biochemistry succeeded in creating stable mutants that generate wax esters with two fewer carbon atoms than the standard species.
This enhancement in the cold flow of the wax esters increases their suitability as biofuel feedstock. Additional benefits of utilizing Euglena gracilis for biofuel production include its simple cultivation through photosynthesis and its capacity for anaerobic wax ester production.
“This milestone is anticipated to lay the groundwork for transitioning some wax ester production away from petroleum reliance towards biological alternatives,” explained Dr. Nakazawa.
