Process Intensification Using Microalgae

This study will examine the feasibility of manufacturing a recently discovered infrared fluorescent protein in microalgae. The infrared protein in question is an extremely versatile compound with mulitiple applications in the biosciences including in vitro diagnostics, drug discovery, imaging and cancer photodynamic therapy. The study will comprise two parts: (a) gene modification - the protein is currently being expressed in bacteria and the vectors will need to be appropriately modified for use in microalgae; (b) expression, purification and analysis - to demonstrate that the protein can be produced in comparable quality and yields. The change from expression in bacteria to microalgae could substantially simplify manufacturing because unlike bacteria microalgae produce carotenoids and chlorophylls in high yield - two key co-factors without which the infrared protein cannot function.