Recently, Iowa State scientists have made discoveries regarding how to increase algae biomass which has practical implications regarding biofuel.

Dr. Martin Spalding, from the Genetics, Development, and Cell Biology department, and a team of research scientists discovered a method of manipulating the genes expressed by algae that increases rate of photosynthesis.

This discovery was the result of years of research. Spalding and his team of three research scientists, three post doctoral associates, three graduate students, and six undergraduate students worked for many years on the algae, focusing upon how algae uses carbon dioxide.

Algae found in areas of low carbon dioxide concentration express two genes, LCIA and LCIB, that Spalding manipulated to be expressed continuously. The constant presence of the gene leads to increased biomass production in the organism.

The continuous expression of these two genes without normal restriction leads to a 50 to 80 percent biomass production increase.

After increasing the algae’s biomass, Spalding then alters other genes within the organism to turn stored energy from starch to oil. The oil can then be converted into biofuel.

It occurred to the research team “that the system may be advantageous under industrial conditions,” said Spalding.

The practical implications of this research are related to the oil, which can be converted into biofuel. As stated Dan Stessman, by a member of the Spalding’s research team, “It gets us closer to producing enough economically for biofuel.”

The biofuel could be used as an alternative energy source for machines that require liquid fuel, such as cars, trucks and airplanes.

While using the biomass produced by algae is a step in the right direction for finding an alternative energy source, it unlikely to be used soon.

As stated by Spalding, the work is “still several years away from having a significant impact on the fuel needs for the country.”

Though it may be several years away from practical use, the work on algae and biomass is a step toward finding alternative energy sources.