Microalgae

Context: CSIR-IICT scientists identify the potential of Chlorella Growth Factor (CGF), a protein-rich extract derived from the microalgae ‘Chlorella sorokiniana’, as an ideal ingredient. Chlorella Growth Factor (CGF) is found exclusively in the cell nucleus of ‘chlorella’ and is produced during photosynthesis. It is laden with a variety of beneficial components, including peptides, amino acids, nucleotides, polysaccharides, glycoproteins, vitamins, and minerals. 

Benefits of CGF

• It prevents viruses from growing, increases the body’s resistance to disease infection, and also controls cancer cells.
• It helps stimulate tissue and genetic material repair, protect and support cellular functions, improve nutrient intake, regulate enzyme production, protect cells against toxin, and improve bowel function.
• It helps lower blood pressure, improve liver function, improve blood counts, regulate blood sugar levels, renew cells, heal anaemia, restore body energy etc.

Microalgae

1. Microalgae are unicellular to filamentous in form.
2. They lack roots, vascular systems, leaves and stems, and are autotrophic and photosynthetic.
3. Microalgae are generally eukaryotic organisms, although cyanobacteria, such as spirulina (prokaryotes), are included under microalgae due to their photosynthetic and reproductive properties.
4. They range in size from about 5 micrometres (µm) to more than 100 µm.
5. They can be found all over the planet & even in extreme environmental conditions, such as high temperatures or salt concentrations, low acidity, in presence of high contaminant concentrations, etc.

Benefits

Environmental benefits

• Carbon Capture and Climate Change Mitigation: They can sequester carbon dioxide from industrial emissions, thus reducing the greenhouse gas effect.
• Bioremediation: Microalgae can clean up polluted water bodies by absorbing toxins and heavy metals through bioremediation.

Economic advantages

• Renewable Biofuel Production: Microalgae can be processed into biofuels such as biodiesel, bioethanol, and biogas, helping to reduce dependence on fossil fuels.
• Cost-Effective Cultivation: Microalgae can be grown in ponds, photobioreactors, or even wastewater, requiring less land and resources compared to traditional crops.

Health and nutritional benefits

• Rich Nutrient Profile: Microalgae are a source of high-quality proteins, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making them a superfood for human consumption.
• Pharmaceutical Applications: Certain microalgae produce bioactive compounds that have anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and anticancer properties, which can be used in drug development.

Industrial and commercial applications

• Bioplastics and Biochemicals: Microalgae can be used to produce biodegradable plastics and various biochemicals, reducing reliance on petrochemicals.
• Cosmetics and Skincare: The antioxidants and vitamins in microalgae are valuable in the cosmetics industry for making skin care products.