Biosynthesis of Very-long-chain Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids in Thraustochytrids and Their Applications in Metabolic Engineering
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Abstract:
Very-long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (VLCPUFAs), including ARA, EPA, and DHA, are essential for human growth and well-being. They are produced mainly by the Thraustochytrids, a group of marine microorganisms that are the most important sources of these fatty acids for marine animals such as fish and shellfish. Although many studies have suggested the great potential of Thraustochytrids for the large-scale massive production of VLCPUFAs, the mechanisms of VLCPUFA biosynthesis in these microorganisms remain unclear. In this review, the VLCPUFA biosynthetic pathways of Thraustochytrids, the mechanisms of storage lipid assembly, and genetic engineering strategies for increasing VLCPUFA yields are introduced. Specifically, emphasis is placed on the aerobic and anaerobic biosynthetic pathways and the mechanisms of VLCPUFA assembly as well as the metabolic engineering applications of the pathway-related genes. This review presents a summary of findings from cutting-edge research studies to provide a better understanding of these biosynthetic pathways and their applications for VLCPUFA production. In conclusion, through the heterologous expression of genes involved in VLCPUFA biosynthesis, microorganisms and plants can accumulate functional lipids such as EPA, DPA, and DHA, which account for up to 5%~40% of the total lipids. However, through genetic engineering, the DHA yields of Thraustochytrids can be enhanced by approximately 3%~55%. These findings provide a theoretical basis and guidance for the industrial production of VLCPUFAs.
