Propiconazole Resistant Chlorella Mutants for Algal Biomass Production
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Solution Overview
Problem
Algal biomass production in open ponds is hindered by abiotic and biotic stresses, including contamination from grazers and contaminating organisms, which existing methods fail to manage effectively without impacting algal growth.
Innovation Solution
Development of propiconazole resistant mutants of Chlorella sp., specifically CCAP 211/134, achieved through UV radiation and selection with propiconazole, enabling tolerance to high temperatures and grazers, and method for controlling grazers in aquatic environments using these mutants.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If chemical agents are used to kill grazers and contaminating organisms, then gregarious control is improved, but algal growth is adversely affected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by selecting and breeding algal strains with specific genetic characteristics that confer resistance to propiconazole. The mutant strains have altered physiological parameters that enable them to tolerate the fungicide concentration (0.5-5.0 μg/mL) that is lethal to grazers, thus resolving the contradiction between gregarious control and algal growth protection
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the biological community by creating a distinct population of propiconazole-resistant algal mutants that can coexist with the fungicide treatment. This segmentation allows the algal culture to be differentiated from grazers based on their differential response to propiconazole, enabling selective control while protecting the desired algal biomass
2Productivity
If algal density is increased to improve biomass production, then productivity is improved, but susceptibility to biotic stresses increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-treating the algal culture with propiconazole during the growth phase to establish resistance before biotic stressors are introduced. This preliminary exposure creates a protective state in the algal cells, enabling them to withstand higher densities and associated biotic stresses without culture crashes
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables self-service by developing algal strains that possess inherent resistance to propiconazole through genetic mutation and selection. These self-resistant strains do not require external protection or intervention to maintain culture stability at high densities, as they can autonomously tolerate the fungicide presence and resist gregarious attacks
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The propiconazole resistant mutants exhibit enhanced biomass production and temperature stress tolerance, effectively controlling grazers and contaminating organisms, thereby improving algal yield and stability in cultivation.
Implementation Method 1
The method comprises subjecting wild type Chlorella sp. cells to UV radiation to obtain a UV treated Chlorella culture
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to propiconazole resistant mutants of Chlorella species having Accession No. CCAP 211/134. The propiconazole resistant mutants of Chlorella species has increased tolerance to propiconazole and has increased tolerance to abiotic stress. The present disclosure further provides a method for preparing the propiconazole resistant mutants of Chlorella species. The propiconazole resistant mutants of Chlorella species can selectively grow in the presence of propiconazole, has increased tolerance to temperature stress, and hence can be used for large scale production of algal biomass.