April 25th 2025
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).
Phototropin responds to blue light and regulates starch storage by activating or deactivating PMSK1, a protein that controls starch synthesis. Blue light reduces starch accumulation, while red light increases starch storage.
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.
Source: https://www.uu.se/en/press/press-releases/2025/2025-04-16-controlling-starch-levels-in-algae-could-reduce-greenhouse-gases