A study by researchers from Tianjin University in China has launched a system based on the use of phytohormones to enhance carbon capture with microalgae under suboptimal lighting conditions, one of the main challenges in applying this technology outdoors.
The use of phytohormones to regulate microalgae metabolism in adverse conditions is an innovative approach in biotechnology. It not only improves the growth of microalgae but also helps increase CO2 capture in low-light environments.
The research focused on applying phytohormones in the cultivation of Spirulina platensis within a CO2 absorption system. As reported in their article published in Environmental Research, the results were remarkable: the group treated with 10 mg/L of the phytohormone indole-propionic acid showed a 17.11% increase in biomass and a 21.46% improvement in carbon fixation capacity compared to the control group. Moreover, chlorophyll synthesis and other photosynthetic pigments, essential for light capture, were also significantly enhanced.
These substances not only helped microalgae grow faster but also resist oxidative stress caused by low light. This protective effect was achieved by increasing the activity of antioxidant enzymes such as superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT).
With this strategy, the researchers overcame the challenges of low photosynthetic efficiency, oxidative stress, and reduced production of valuable metabolites.
The use of phytohormones also stimulated the production of compounds like carbohydrates, proteins, and pigments such as phycocyanin, widely used in the food and medical industries.
Ultimately, this breakthrough offers an effective and economical alternative to reduce atmospheric CO2 while contributing to the development of sustainable systems that support the bioeconomy and the fight against climate change.
Reference:
Pengcheng Li, Dantong Wang, Yaoqi Hou, Zhan Hu, Chunfeng Song. Effect of phytohormones on the carbon sequestration performance of CO2 absorption-microalgae conversion system under low light restriction. Environmental Research.
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