Draft genome sequence and genetic transformation of the oleaginous alga Nannochloropis gaditana.
Nat Commun, 2012/2/21;3:686.
Radakovits R[1], Jinkerson RE, Fuerstenberg SI, Tae H, Settlage RE, Boore JL, Posewitz MC
Affiliations
PMID: 22353717DOI: 10.1038/ncomms1688
Impact factor: 17.694
Abstract
The potential use of algae in biofuels applications is receiving significant attention. However, none of the current algal model species are competitive production strains. Here we present a draft genome sequence and a genetic transformation method for the marine microalga Nannochloropsis gaditana CCMP526. We show that N. gaditana has highly favourable lipid yields, and is a promising production organism. The genome assembly includes nuclear (~29 Mb) and organellar genomes, and contains 9,052 gene models. We define the genes required for glycerolipid biogenesis and detail the differential regulation of genes during nitrogen-limited lipid biosynthesis. Phylogenomic analysis identifies genetic attributes of this organism, including unique stramenopile photosynthesis genes and gene expansions that may explain the distinguishing photoautotrophic phenotypes observed. The availability of a genome sequence and transformation methods will facilitate investigations into N. gaditana lipid biosynthesis and permit genetic engineering strategies to further improve this naturally productive alga.
MeSH terms
Base Sequence; Chromosome Mapping; Genome; Lipids; Microalgae; Molecular Sequence Data; Photosynthesis; Phylogeny; Sequence Analysis, DNA; Stramenopiles; Transformation, Genetic
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