Transcription Factor-Based Genetic Engineering in Microalgae.

Keiichi Mochdia,Shun Tamaki

doi:10.3390/plants10081602

Abstract

Sequence-specific DNA-binding transcription factors (TFs) are key components of gene regulatory networks. Advances in high-throughput sequencing have facilitated the rapid acquisition of whole genome assembly and TF repertoires in microalgal species. In this review, we summarize recent advances in gene discovery and functional analyses, especially for transcription factors in microalgal species. Specifically, we provide examples of the genome-scale identification of transcription factors in genome-sequenced microalgal species and showcase their application in the discovery of regulators involved in various cellular functions. Herein, we highlight TF-based genetic engineering as a promising framework for designing microalgal strains for microalgal-based bioproduction.

Highlights

Sequence-specific DNA-binding transcription factors (TFs) are key components of gene regulatory networks [1,2,3,4,5]
We have summarized the recent advances in gene discovery and func6
Advanced genome sequencing techIn this review, we have summarized the recent advances in gene discovery and nologies have enabled rapid access to entire genetic codes and their expression profiles of functional analysis, especially for transcription factors

Summary

Introduction

Sequence-specific DNA-binding transcription factors (TFs) are key components of gene regulatory networks [1,2,3,4,5]. TFs form complex regulatory networks through specific interactions with cis-regulatory sequences of promoter regions of target genes, as well as interactions with other proteins, including transcriptional regulators, such as chromatin remodeling/modifying factors [7,8]. Such specific TF-promoter interactions mediate molecular signals and regulate gene expression, which affects cellular metabolism, homeostasis, and physiological responses to environmental changes. By increasing the number of genome-sequenced microalgal species, TFs comprehensively identified from algal genomes offer opportunities to explore key regulators involved in various cellular functions in microalgae, such as cellular metabolism and environmental responses. We discuss perspectives in gene regulatory network (GRN) engineering to improve the productivity and adaptation ability of microalgae to environmental changes

Whole Genome Assembly in Microalgae

Genome-Wide Identification of TF Repertories in Microalgae

Gene Regulatory Networks with TFs

TF-based Metabolic Engineering in Microalgae

Conclusions and Future Perspectives