Work

Preliminary Optimization of Fermentation Process for Efficient Docosahexaenoic Acid Production by an Adaptive Evolution-Derived Strain of Aurantiochytrium limacinum

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Thraustochytrids are promising alternatives for the production of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA; C22:6 n-3), a long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acid with health benefits. For practical application of this oleaginous microorganism, an efficient cultivation method to enhance DHA production is required, which relies on several factors that support cell growth, lipid accumulation, and lipid turnover. In this study, the robust submerged fermentation of an acid- and high-temperature-tolerant strain of Aurantiochytrium limacinum was investigated. Under controlled temperature and acidic conditions (pH 4.5 and 30 °C), glucose and peptone were the best carbon and nitrogen sources for enhancing biomass and DHA production, respectively, with a glucose concentration of 60 g/L and a C/N ratio of 24 being optimal for DHA production. Applying an aeration rate of 2 vvm and an agitation speed of 300 rpm using a combination of a ring sparger and pitch-blade impeller in a stirred-tank bioreactor improved DHA production using intermittent fed-batch fermentation. The highest DHA titer was obtained at 3.01 g/L, and the DHA content in biomass was 10.69% (w/w) after intermittent feeding of cassava starch hydrolysate as the substrate.

Source: Fermentation

DOI: 10.3390/fermentation12040207

Authors: Rujirek Nopgason, Tanapawarin Rampai, Thanaporn Dechpreechakul, Kobkul Laoteng, Siwaporn Wannawilai

Institutions: National Science and Technology Development Agency, Thailand Science Park, National Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology

Language: English

Topic: Algal biology and biofuel production

Subfield: Renewable Energy, Sustainability and the Environment

Field: Energy

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Affordable and clean energy, Zero hunger

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,534