Because algae can synthesize high levels of lipids, carbohydrates, and proteins, they can be used commercially in fuels, environmental remediation, functional foods, and nutraceuticals.

Forward genetic screening that can be used to find strains of algae that accumulate target material and to find genes that affect the specific phenotype can reduce the economic cost of large-scale production. Lifeasible can provide forward genetic screening services for algae to facilitate the commercialization and research of algae.

Variety of Algae Strains

Algae are a large and highly diverse group of organisms that can be found in almost all ecosystems. The most recent estimates suggest that over 72,500 algal species are present worldwide. Microalgae are a promising feedstock for biofuel production and different applications, such as wastewater purification, biogas production, and extraction of valuable compounds for food and pharmaceutical products.

Introduction to Forward Genetic Screen

Forward genetic screening is an efficient experimental technique for identifying and selecting individuals who possess a phenotype of interest in mutagenic populations and is used to provide valuable new insights into the function of genes providing gene function.

• Commonly Used Techniques in Forward Genetic Screening
  Forward genetic screening, also known as forward genetics, starts with a phenotypic screen and then analyzes the genes of strains or mutants with different phenotypes to identify the gene responsible for that specific phenotype. Since natural allelic mutations are rare, geneticists usually generate higher frequencies of mutations by exposing individuals to known mutagens, such as chemical mutagens or physical mutagens. This method is often used in screens to discover all genes involved in a particular phenotype.
• Purpose of Forward Genetic Screening in Mutant Algal Library
  Studies have shown that mutant-to-mutant differences in yield are often very significant. Therefore, it is important to test not only the model strain but also multiple mutant strains of the algae to determine the most suitable commercial algal strain for the production of the target material.

Our Services

The selected commercial strains should have two important key characteristics, which are high biomass productivity and adaptability to regional climatic conditions.

With many years of experience in algae research and an extensive database of mutant algal strains, Lifeasible can provide professional, fast, and reliable large-scale forward genetic screening services for algae with an effective and smart strategy.

Primary Screening

The strains are tested for growth under standardized media and culture conditions to perform a comparative analysis of these strains. The parameters of growth conditions include the composition of the medium, temperature, light intensity, and photoperiod.

Secondary Screening

Then, there was an analysis of the biomass production and composition of the algal strains. Algae carbohydrate content, protein content, lipid content, and other substances are tested as a way to screen strains suitable for commercialization.

Data Analysis

Lifeasible has a professional team to support the data analysis. Statistical methods such as t-test, one-way ANOVA, and MANOVA can be used to comprehensively compare and analyze the algal biomass content and algae growth status.

Why Choose Us

With years of algae-related research experience, Lifeasible has accumulated a wealth of acknowledgment and a rich library of algae strains. As a result, we are capable to provide professional forward genetic screening services for algae for our clients worldwide. Please contact us for more information.

Our services are for research use only and not for any clinical use.