Unveiling the underlying molecular basis of astaxanthin accumulation in Haematococcus through integrative metabolomic-transcriptomic analysis

• Massive metabolic reprogramming was unveiled for Haematoccocus reddish cells. The differential expression of 100s genes induces this reprogramming. bHLH transcription factor family is a putative astaxanthin biosynthesis regulator. Vegetative palmelloid cells are model synthesis studies. Astaxanthin valuable and highly demanded ketocarotenoid pigment, which the chlorophycean microalga Haematococcus pluvialis an outstanding natural source. Although information on accumulation in H. has substantially advanced recent years, its underlying molecular bases remain elusive. An integrative transcriptomic analysis been performed vegetative cells, grown both under N sufficiency (green cells) moderate limitation, allowing concurrent active cell growth (reddish cells). Transcriptional activation noticeable key enzymes participating glycolysis, pentose phosphate cycle pyruvate metabolism, determining adequate provision glyceraldehyde 3 pyruvate, precursors carotenoids fatty acids. Moreover, first time, transcriptional regulators potentially involved controlling have identified, knowledge enabling optimization commercial production by through systems engineering.