Creating a designer cyanobacterial ecosystem for the sustainable production of biomass rich in sun-protecting compounds: mycosporine-like amino acids and scytonemin

Abstract

This review study examines an innovative biotechnological strategy aimed at creating a specialized cyanobacterial ecosystem designed to produce high-quality biomass abundant in compounds that provide protection against solar radiation, specifically scytonemin and mycosporine-like amino acids (MAAs). The remarkable ability of cyanobacteria to produce biomass that is both sustainable and environmentally friendly has attracted considerable attention in recent years, largely due to its wide-ranging applications in various industries. However, a significant challenge remains: the concentrations of these beneficial metabolites within cyanobacteria are typically very low, rendering industrial-scale production economically unviable. To tackle this limitation, the field of synthetic biology offers a promising avenue for improvement. By utilizing advanced genetic and metabolic engineering techniques, strategically modification can be done in specific cyanobacterial strains to optimize their metabolic pathways. This optimization may lead to enhanced production efficiencies and elevated yields of UV-protective chemicals, which are vital for protecting the organisms from harmful ultraviolet radiation as well as for potential applications in sunscreens and UV-blocking materials. In addition to discussing these engineering strategies, this article delves into the intricate molecular mechanisms underlying UV protection in cyanobacteria. Understanding the role of specific metabolites in shielding these microorganisms from UV damage can provide insight into both the natural resilience of cyanobacteria and the potential for engineered strains to yield higher concentrations of these valuable compounds. Through a comprehensive exploration of these topics, we can better appreciate the dual promise of cyanobacteria: their potential as a sustainable biomass resource and their capabilities in mitigating environmental stressors through enhanced UV protection.