Statistical optimization of phytol and polyunsaturated fatty acid production in the Antarctic microalga <italic>Micractinium variabile</italic> KSF0031

Polar microorganisms produce physiologically active substances to adapt harsh environments, and these can be used as biomedical compounds. The green microalga Micractinium variabile KSF0031, which was isolated from Antarctica, produced phytol, a natural antimicrobial agent. Furthermore, several polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), including omega-3, exhibit antioxidant properties. Here statistical methods (Plackett-Burman design Box- Behnken design) were optimize the culture medium of KSF0031 improve biomass production, K2HPO4, MgSO4·7H2O, ammonium ferric citrate (AFCg) selected significant components medium. Changes in concentration K2HPO4 MgSO4·7H2O positive factors AFCg negative factor affected cell growth remarkable degree. production 100 L using optimized for 24 d at 18°C improved by 37.5% compared that obtained original BG-11 quantities PUFAs phytol 13 mg g-1 dry weight (DCW) 10.98 DCW, represent yields 11.70% 48.78%, respectively. results this study could contribute an Antarctic microalgae industry.