(165a) Advances In Microalgal Biotechnology

Microalgae are “old” organisms on earth but the recognition of their usefulness in terms of industrial application is relatively recent.  Microalgae are a wonderful and unique source of high-value biological active compounds and can be exploited as functional foods (or functional food ingredients) as well as pharmaceuticals. In this lecture, I will summarize the applications of microalgae in a number of existing and new areas, and the advancement of technology employed. The two fundamental components of biotechnology, namely, bioprocess engineering and molecular biotechnology that can be used for microalgae research and application will be reviewed and discussed.