Microalgal Biotechnology: Today’s (Green) Gold Rush - Biotechnological Applications of Microalgae - page 220

In conclusion, microalgal biotechnology has made rapid advances in the mass
cultivation of algae and their application toward biofeed, biopharmacy, biofuel, bio-
remediation, bioactive compounds, and space research. However, fewer than fifty
species are utilized, while thousands remain unexplored. The potential roles of
microalgae in genetic engineering and nanotechnology have increased the prospects
for the next generation of “designer microalgae.” To establish algal biotechnology as
an economically viable enterprise, concerted research is needed to (1) develop inex-
pensive media through enrichment of wastewater; (2) isolate and culture new strains
of high-yielding microalgae, preferably a consortium of extremophiles; (3) improve
production systems; (4) enhance biochemical and metabolic pathways through
genetic engineering; and (5) improve harvesting techniques.
Additionally, attention should be given to high-value natural and recombinant
products that can be extracted from algae to enhance the profitability of biofuel oper-
ations. Simulation models will serve as the foundation for industrial processes that
optimize wastewater treatment systems, nutrient levels, and strategies for harvest
and extraction of bioactive compounds. A robust bio-economy built on a platform
of innovative microalgal technologies requires a cross-disciplinary approach among
biologists, biotechnologists, molecular biologists, biochemists, engineers, chemists,
bioreactor manufacturers, aquaculturists, and modelers.
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
We are grateful to Professor Faizal Bux and Dr. Taurai Mutanda, Institute for Water
and Wastewater Technology, Durban University of Technology, South Africa,
for inviting us to contribute this chapter. We are most grateful to Professor John
Beardall, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia, for constructive review of
the manuscript. We thank Bala T. Durvasula and Dr. Ivy Hurwitz for their help with
formatting the manuscript.
The research of V. Sree Hari Rao is supported by the Foundation for Scientific
Research and Technological Innovation (FSRTI), a Constituent Division of the Sri
Vadrevu Seshagiri Rao Memorial Charitable Trust, Hyderabad, India.
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