Evolving Microalgae to Reduce Carbon Dioxide Emission and Nutrient Runoff into the Chesapeake Bay

Proposed Research Project

Researcher: Dr. Yantao Li

We propose to improve Nannochloropsis through a non-genetic modified (non-GMO) method, Adaptive Lab Evolution (ALE), by which cells are adapted to the conditions (such as high CO2, wastewater etc.) we set through the serial transfer of cell populations in batch or continuous cultures and the fitness of the cells (such as the growth rate) under such conditions increases.

Aim1: Evolve Nannochloropsis under high CO2 conditions
Aim2: Evolve Nannochloropsis under manure wastewater conditions

Expected Outcomes

The best case scenario is evolved strain showing a maximum of >40% higher growth rate than the wild type, and the worst case scenario is evolved strain showing a 20% higher growth rate than the wild type

Probable Ancillary Benefits

We will develop and also leverage existing educational outreach programs at IMET centered on the proposed microalgal research to provide training opportunities for students and researchers to promote diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility in basic research and the biotechnology industry, and to raise public awareness and appreciation for biological carbon capture and bioremediation research.

New Information

Recent findings include the successful isolation and characterization of novel microalgae strains with enhanced CO2 fixation capabilities. We have also identified specific genetic markers associated with improved nutrient uptake efficiency.

Results

Half way through the project, we have already reached a 20% higher growth rate than the wild type. We are working towards the best case scenario (40% increase in growth).

Additional Funding Sources

I had one NSF proposal related to this project (Convergence Accelerator Phase II with Dr. Elizabeth North as PI and others on using evolved microalgal strains for carbon capture) being recommended for funding earlier this year, but is on hold (status unclear) now as the administration transition. In the future, I will seek support from foundation and state sources as federal funding seems unstable at the time.