In recent years, microalgae have garnered interest for the production of valuable molecules ranging from therapeutic proteins to biofuels. However, microalgae also are associated with the considerable problem of phytoplankton bloom. Therefore, microalgal growth must be controlled depending on the purpose. LEDs can produce cost-effective low-wattage irradiance at the optimum spectral make-up for growing or controlling specific microalgae species. That is, this artificial light source can conserve energy consumption by producing light only in the red wavelength (680?700 nm) or the blue wavelength (420 nm) for algae production. It can also be designed to produce wavelengths of light that inhibit nuisance microalgae species. In this study, we demonstrated that blue LED illumination as the sole light source not only effectively supports the growth of I. galbana, but also can control cell growth through the phenomenon of photoinhibition. It is known that photosynthetic microalgae require light, but the optimum intensity and length of exposure is not known. We have confirmed that excessive light intensities lead to photoinhibition, whereas low light intensities do not promote algal growth. Our findings may have a profound impact on the environment and the welfare of the planet by addressing the pressing issues of alternative energy resources, global warming, human health, and food security.
국가
대한민국
소속기관
서울대학교 (학교)
연락처
02-880-9101 http://nmsl.snu.ac.kr/nano/intro.php
책임자
이정훈 jleenano@snu.ac.kr