
The study revealed that A. pacificum adjusts its toxin synthesis pathways and energy metabolism while competing with J. cystaugens for nutrients. (Image courtesy of the Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology)
DAEJEON, Jan. 24 (Korea Bizwire) — The Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB) announced on January 23 that its researchers have made a groundbreaking discovery, becoming the first in the world to unravel how harmful microalgae produce toxins and develop a biological control method to inhibit this process.
Microalgae, single-celled organisms crucial to marine ecosystems, produce oxygen and organic matter. However, not all species benefit the environment. One species, Alexandrium pacificum, produces neurotoxins that can accumulate in seafood and potentially cause severe damage to the human central nervous system if consumed.
While current methods to eliminate toxins from harmful algae rely on chemical treatments or mechanical removal, these approaches have limitations, including potential environmental pollution. The research team’s breakthrough offers a promising alternative.
Through an in-depth analysis of the interaction between A. pacificum and the bacteria Jannaschia cystaugens, the scientists discovered that bacterial signaling promotes the expression of toxin synthesis genes in the algae throughout all stages, from initial development to advanced production.
The study revealed that A. pacificum adjusts its toxin synthesis pathways and energy metabolism while competing with J. cystaugens for nutrients. Crucially, the researchers identified physical contact with bacteria as the key factor triggering toxin synthesis in the algae, validating the existing hypothesis that harmful algae strengthen their survival strategy through toxin production under stressful conditions.
“We confirmed that A. pacificum synthesizes low-toxicity neurotoxins in nutrient-rich environments but switches to high-toxicity synthesis while suppressing energy consumption in nutrient-limited conditions,” said Li Zhun. “This is the world’s first demonstration that these organisms can select their own metabolic strategy based on nutrient availability.”
M. H. Lee (mhlee@koreabizwire.com)