Uppsala University researchers find way to control starch storage in algae

In Sweden, high-starch algae are important in biofuel production, as a feed supplement in agriculture and as an efficient way to bind carbon dioxide. Researchers at Uppsala University have now found a new method to control starch storage in algae—a finding with potential applications in areas such as reducing greenhouse gases.

In the new study, researchers show that blue light has a special effect. It affects starch storage in algae through a protein called phototropin. When phototropin senses blue light, it activates a signaling pathway that reduces starch accumulation by controlling key metabolic genes. This light-driven regulation of carbon storage allows algae to fine-tune their energy allocation between immediate growth (low starch) and long-term storage (high starch).

The researchers found that genetically modified algae without phototropin increased starch content from 5% to 25% of the dry weight of the algae—without compromising growth or photosynthesis.