International Journal of Aquaculture, 2024, Vol.14, No.2, 62-72 http://www.aquapublisher.com/index.php/ija 68 evolutionary relationships among algal species. For instance, bioinformatics analyses have revealed that over half of the proteins encoded by algal genomes are of unknown function, highlighting the need for further functional characterization (López et al., 2011). Gene Ontology databases and similarity searches have been used to investigate the function of species-specific genes in Ostreococcus ecotypes, providing insights into their ecological adaptations (Jancek et al., 2008). Moreover, bioinformatics tools have been crucial in identifying the extent and impact of HGT in algal genomes, which plays a significant role in their adaptation to variable environments. 7.3 High-throughput functional genomics High-throughput functional genomics approaches, such as transcriptomics and proteomics, complement genomic data by providing insights into gene expression and protein function. These methodologies have been used to study the coordinated gene regulation involved in algal adaptation to environmental stresses, such as salinity (Bian et al., 2019). Comparative proteomics has also been employed to analyze the genetic basis of adaptation in different algal ecotypes, revealing species-specific functions and the evolutionary rates of orthologous genes. These high-throughput techniques are essential for understanding the functional capabilities of algae and their responses to environmental changes. 8 Applications and Implications 8.1 Algal biotechnology The advancements in algal genomics and transcriptomics have profound implications for algal biotechnology. The comprehensive genomic analysis of algae, such as the model organismChlamydomonas reinhardtii, has revealed critical biological processes that can be harnessed for biotechnological applications (Khan et al., 2020). The genomic insights into Picochlorumspecies have demonstrated how gene regulation and horizontal gene transfer (HGT) contribute to environmental adaptation, which can be leveraged to engineer algae for specific biotechnological purposes, such as biofuel production and bioremediation (Stapley et al., 2010). Additionally, the proteomic comparison of Ostreococcus ecotypes has identified species-specific genes and functions (Table 1) that could be critical for developing algae-based products with enhanced resistance to environmental stressors. Table 1 Biological functions of algal CRYs, including comparative data from transgenic lines (Adopted from Petersen et al., 2021) Type (6-4) repair CPD repair Circadian clock Sexual cycle Photosynthesis: Components, apparatus Other Cr pCRY X X Pt CryP X Xa Cr aCRY X X X X X Pt CPF1 X X X X Ot CPF1 X X Ot CPF2 (CRY-DASH) Xb X Cr CRY-DASH1 X Xc Image caption: a: Photoreceptor network; b: weak CPD activity; c: growth curve; Cr, Chlamydomonas reinhardti; Ot, Ostreococcus tauri; Pt, Phaeodactylum tricormutum(Adopted from Petersen et al., 2021) 8.2 Environmental impact and conservation Understanding the genetic mechanisms of algal adaptation is crucial for assessing the environmental impact of climate change on primary producers. The genomic analysis of Picochlorum species has elucidated how these microalgae adapt to variable environments, providing insights into the resilience of algal populations under changing climatic conditions. This knowledge can inform conservation strategies aimed at preserving algal biodiversity and maintaining ecosystem stability. Furthermore, the evolutionary insights gained from algal genomics can help predict how algal communities might shift in response to environmental stressors, aiding in the development of conservation policies that mitigate the adverse effects of climate change. 8.3 Future prospects in algal research The future of algal research is promising, with the potential for significant advancements in both fundamental and
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MjQ4ODYzNA==