Biological and technical aspects on valorization of red microalgae genera Porphyridium

Red microalgae genera Porphyridium are photoautotrophic microalgae with potential application as a natural source of high-value chemicals, including sulfated exopolysaccharides (EPs), phycobiliproteins (PBPs), and long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LC-PUFAs) such as alpha-linolenic (ALA), arachidonic (ARA), and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). Their good tolerances toward dynamic environmental changes lead them to be attractive for sustainable large-scale production of biomass and biochemicals. Discussion on the biological nature and culture strategies of Porphyridium are helpful for improving more effective and efficient cultivation system, which are presented in this review. The typical biological characteristics and the main targeted biochemicals of Porphyridium like polysaccharides, PUFAs, and PBPs are firstly presented. Some crucial parameters such as temperature, pH, salinity, and light intensity are then discussed for their effect on cell growth and biochemical yield. Recent technology development in large-scale cultivation is also evaluated in the final, which compared the established large-scale culture and recent novel cultures. It is expected that this review could provide new insight for development strategy in optimizing and accelerating more sustainable as well as economically viable industrial biotechnology based on red microalga genera Porphyridium.

Automated summary

This review presents the potential applications of red microalgae genus Porphyridium as a natural source of high-value chemicals and discusses their biological nature, culture strategies, and the effects of environmental factors on cell growth and biochemical yield. It also evaluates recent technology developments in large-scale cultivation.