Methods for the selection of low pH-tolerant, DHA producing microalgae

US7745183B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• Martek Biosciences Corporation · US

Inventors

• Paul Warren Behrens · Ellicott City, US
• John M. Thompson · Baltimore, US
• Kirk E. Apt · Ellicott City, US
• Joseph W. Pfeifer, III · Westminster, US
• James P. Wynn · Okemos, US
• James Casey Lippmeier · Columbia, US
• Jaouad Fichtali · Lexington, US
• Jon Milton Hansen · Chula Vista, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Apr 20, 2007
• Grant date: Jun 29, 2010
• Expiry date: Jan 26, 2028

Classification

• Technology area (CPC C): Chemistry; Metallurgy
• CPC primary: C12P7/6472
• WIPO field: Pharmaceuticals
• WIPO sector: Chemistry

Abstract

Methods for production of highly unsaturated fatty acids by marine microorganisms, including the heterotrophic marine dinoflagellate Crypthecodinium, using low levels of chloride ion are disclosed. Specifically, methods of increasing production of highly unsaturated fatty acids by marine microorganisms while growing in low chloride media by manipulating sodium ion and potassium ion levels. The invention also relates to methods of production of highly unsaturated fatty acids by marine organisms at low pH levels, and includes methods for generation of low pH tolerant strains.