Optimizing cyanobacterial hydrogen production: metabolic and genetic strategies with glycerol supplementation

作者：Ayshat M. Bozieva, Makhmadyusuf Kh. Khasimov, Mahipal S. Rao, Maria A. Sinetova, Roman A. Voloshin, D. O. Dunikov, А. А. Цыганков, Yoong Kit Leong, Jo‐Shu Chang, Suleyman I. Allakhverdiev, Barry D. Bruce · 发表于：Frontiers in Energy Research · 年份：2025 · DOI：10.3389/fenrg.2025.1547215 · 被引用次数：8 · 研究领域：Photosynthetic Processes and Mechanisms、Algal biology and biofuel production、Microbial Metabolic Engineering and Bioproduction

Introduction Developing sustainable hydrogen production is critical for advancing renewable energy and reducing reliance on fossil fuels. Cyanobacteria, which harness solar energy through photosynthesis, provide a promising biological platform for hydrogen generation. However, improving hydrogen yields requires strategic metabolic and genetic modifications to optimize energy flow and overcome photosynthetic limitations. Methods Four cyanobacterial species were evaluated for their hydrogen production capacities under varying experimental conditions. Photosynthesis was partially inhibited using distinct chemical inhibitors, including 3-(3,4-dichlorophenyl)-1,1-dimethylurea (DCMU). Exogenous glycerol was introduced as a supplementary carbon source. Hydrogen production was monitored over time, and rates were normalized to chlorophyll a content. Genomic analysis of transporter proteins was conducted to identify potential genetic loci for further enhancement of hydrogen output. Results Nitrogen-fixing Dolichospermum sp. exhibited significantly higher hydrogen production compared to the other tested species. Supplementation with glycerol notably increased both the rate and duration of hydrogen evolution, far exceeding previously established benchmarks. The maximum hydrogen production rate for Dolichospermum sp. reached 132.3 μmol H₂/mg Chl a/h—representing a 30-fold enhancement over the rates observed with DCMU. Genomic screening revealed key transporter proteins with putative roles...