Environmental modulation of Omega-3 fatty acid biosynthesis in microalgae: Comparative effects of light intensity, temperature, and UV exposure on Spirulina platensis, Chlorella vulgaris, and Nannochloropsis oceanica
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Microalgae are increasingly recognized as sustainable biofactories for high-value lipids, particularly omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) such as eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), which are vital for human health and industrial applications. This study aimed to evaluate the influence of environmental factors, light intensity, temperature, and ultraviolet (UV) radiation, on omega-3 fatty acid biosynthesis in Spirulina platensis, Chlorella vulgaris, and Nannochloropsis oceanica. The experiment was conducted under controlled laboratory conditions, with light intensities ranging from 10-125 µmol m?² s?¹, temperatures from 15-45°C, and UV-B exposure durations of 0-3 hours. Fatty acid methyl esters were extracted and quantified using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The results revealed that moderate light (50-75 µmol m?² s?¹) and temperature (30-35°C) significantly enhanced EPA and DHA accumulation, while UV exposure led to a pronounced decline in both compounds. Nannochloropsis oceanica exhibited the highest productivity, with EPA and DHA peaks of 0.94 and 0.55%, respectively, under optimal conditions, followed by S. platensis and C. vulgaris. The results confirmed significant effects of all environmental factors on lipid biosynthesis. In conclusion, light and temperature play crucial regulatory roles in omega-3 production, whereas UV radiation inhibits fatty acid synthesis. The findings highlight N. oceanica as the most promising species for industrial-scale omega-3 production and provide valuable insights for optimizing microalgal cultivation systems.
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