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Applications of Microdroplet Technology for Algal Biotechnology

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Peer-reviewed

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Article

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Authors

Best, Roshni 
Abalde-Cela, Sara 
G. Smith, Alison 

Abstract

Background: Microfluidics allows manipulation of small volumes of fluids through channels with dimensions of tens to hundreds of micrometres. Microdroplet technology is a form of microfluidics in which small (10-200 μm diameter) monodispersed aqueous droplets are generated, manipulated and analysed in various ways. This multidisciplinary field provides an exciting new platform for single-cell studies of both eukaryotic microalgae and cyanobacteria, with considerable potential for enhancing algal biotechnology.

Methods: Growth of several species of microalgae has been studied in detail using microfluidics and microdroplets, and individual cells have been screened and sorted according to lipid content or ethanol production. Here we provide an overview of the devices, and the range of technological advances that are being pursued.

Conclusion: Microdroplet technology is an emerging technology platform that can be used in a variety of applications, including monitoring of growth characteristics at the single-cell level and high-throughput screening of algal populations. Microdroplet platforms are being developed that will allow determination of individual cell characteristics to allow screening across a population, and thus to identify and select candidate cells for biotechnological feedstocks. As the potential of this emerging technical platform is recognized, the technology will become more accessible, so that it can soon be adopted and used by researchers, without the need for specialized prior knowledge of microfluidics or expensive equipment. The platform is amenable for use with species of both microalgae and cyanobacteria.

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Keywords

microalgae, microfluidics, microdroplets, screening, fluorescence, biofuels

Journal Title

Current Biotechnology

Conference Name

Journal ISSN

2211-5501

Volume Title

5

Publisher

Bentham Science Publishers Ltd.
Sponsorship
SAC acknowledges the funding from EC within the EU FP7 DEMA project, grant agreement n°309086. RB was supported by a doctoral training grant from the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) of the UK.