Enzymatic Degradation of Microalgal Cell Walls

Abstract

The enzymatic degradation of algal cell walls was investigated using two experimental approaches. Algal cell walls contain, among other compounds, cellulose and phospholipids. Phospholipids are also present in the membranes of some organelles, particularly the lipid globule of some algae. The desired reactions were the conversion of cell wall cellulose to glucose and the conversion of membrane phospholipids to fatty acids and glycerol. Enzyme degradation was carried out using whole cell dead algae and pre-lysed, pretreated (diluted in 1.5% sulfuric acid and autoclaved) mixed culture algae. The pre-lysed, pretreated feedstock showed the formation of glycerol when incubated with lipases. Formation of glucose was also observed when incubated with cellulases. Upon culturing in the presence of yeast, complete consumption of glucose was observed, however ethanol could not be detected. Such technology could be used in the production of ethanol or biodiesel.