Revolutionary research: Cyanobacteria as a solution for the green future!

Revolutionary research: Cyanobacteria as a solution for the green future!

On March 9, 2025, the Department of Biology, Chemistry and Pharmacy at the Free University of Berlin will host the Dahlem Science Talks. This series, which takes place every second month on the first Wednesday at 6 p.m. in the SupraFAB research building in Berlin, aims to provide insights into current research topics and broader scientific projects at the university. The next lecture will be by Prof. Dr. Timo Niedermeyer, who heads the “Pharmaceutical Biology” working group at the Institute of Pharmacy. His talk is entitled “Environmental Toxins and Drugs: Cyanobacteria in Nature and in the Laboratory” and highlights research on cyanobacteria and their potential medical applications.

Participation in these lectures is free of charge; prior registration is not required. The Dahlem Science Discussions are an important part of Freie Universität's efforts to allow the public to participate in the latest research findings.

The role of cyanobacteria in biotechnology

Cyanobacteria, also known as blue-green algae, play a central role in the current research focus, which is at the interface of basic and applied research in genetics and microbiology. These prokaryotes are unique because they are the only organisms capable of oxygenic photosynthesis. This special ability allows them to convert light energy and CO2 into carbohydrates and biomass. Their potential is being increasingly recognized, particularly in the area of ​​green biotechnology. According to that UFZ The aim of the research is to gain a fundamental understanding of the processes that control photosynthesis and metabolism in cyanobacteria.

One of the key goals is to develop technologies based on the unique properties of these organisms. For example, cyanobacteria could be used in the future for sustainable hydrogen production, a valuable byproduct of their photosynthetic activities. However, the main problem remains the limited availability of molecular tools for the genetic manipulation of these organisms.

Challenges and advances in research

A current study published in the journal ACS Catalysis by researchers at Ruhr University Bochum and Graz University of Technology, highlights the challenges and advances in the catalytic use of cyanobacteria. The study shows that these organisms can efficiently convert light energy into chemical energy, making them an attractive target for biotechnological applications. However, factors such as light availability and cell density limit large-scale technological implementation.

Scientists have developed innovative approaches to improving the productivity of cyanobacteria, including metabolic engineering techniques. This involves redirecting photosynthetic electron flow and turning off certain genes to sensitize cells to use energy more effectively. Researchers are also working on the development of new algae cultivation processes, such as the use of mini-LEDs and special geometries to further increase efficiency.

Interdisciplinary research is considered crucial to integrate all necessary measures for the industrial application of algae-based biocatalysts. Institutional funding, such as from the Austrian Fund for the Promotion of Scientific Research, the German Federal Environmental Foundation and the Nordforsk Nordic Center of Excellence Nordaqua, have significantly supported the progress of these projects.