Coccolithophores (Haptophyta) are calcareous marine unicellular algae widely distributed in the world oceans, and some of them are considered to be the precursor of fossil fuels. Among those, a species Pleurochrysis carterae is regarded as a strong candidate feedstock for biofuel production because of its high lipid content and biomass productivity. Recently, Dr. Endo (PRESTO researcher, Japan Science and Technology Agency) and colleagues have succeeded in establishment of a stable transformation system for this alga. This newly developed technique is promising for alternative fuel production utilizing this marine microorganism.
Program Information
JST PRESTO Research Area “Creation of Basic Technology for Improved Bioenergy Production through Functional Analysis and Regulation of Algae and Other Aquatic Microorganisms” Research Theme “Establishment of transformation system in Pleurochrysis carterae and application for biofuel production”
Journal Information
Hirotoshi Endo, Megumi Yoshida, Toshiki Uji, Naotsune Saga, Koji Inoue, and Hiromichi Nagasawa. “Stable Nuclear Transformation System for the Coccolithophorid Alga Pleurochrysis carterae”. Scientific Reports, 07 March 2016, doi: 10.1038/srep22252.
Contact
[About Research]
Hirotoshi Endo, Ph.D.
Research fellow, Atmosphere and Ocean Research Institute, the University of Tokyo
E-mail: 
[About Program]
Tetsu Kawaguchi
Life Innovation Group, Department of Innovation Research, JST
E-mail: 