Biotechnological Applications of Microalgae: Advances, Potential and Future Challenges: A review

Authors

• Samiha M. Gharib, National Institute of Oceanography and Fisheries (NIOF), Egypt
• Mohamed Z. Nassar, National Institute of Oceanography and Fisheries (NIOF), EgyptFollow

Article Type

Review

Subject Area

Hydrobiology

Corresponding Author

Mohamed Z. Nassar

Corresponding Author ORCID

orcid logo https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8972-216X

Abstract

This review highlights the diverse biotechnological applications of microalgae, emphasizing their significance in human health, nutrition, and sustainable development. Microalgae are among the most widespread photosynthetic microorganisms in aquatic environments, characterized by remarkable metabolic diversity and the ability to produce a wide range of valuable bioactive compounds. These compounds include proteins, lipids, essential fatty acids, pigments, vitamins, and antioxidants, which support their applications in food, feed, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetic industries. In addition to their nutritional and therapeutic potential, microalgae play a crucial role in environmental management through carbon dioxide sequestration, wastewater treatment, and bioremediation processes. Their capacity to convert solar energy into chemical energy makes them promising candidates for renewable energy production, particularly in the form of biofuels such as biodiesel. However, despite their significant potential, large-scale commercialization remains limited due to economic and technological constraints. This review also discusses the current challenges associated with microalgae-based technologies, including high production costs, scalability issues, and the need for integrated biorefinery approaches. Advancing research in this field is essential to unlock the full potential of microalgae as sustainable biofactories. Overall, microalgae represent a key component in the transition toward a circular bioeconomy, offering innovative solutions to global challenges related to energy, environment, and food security

Full Text of Submission

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Recommended Citation

Gharib, Samiha M. and Nassar, Mohamed Z. (2026) "Biotechnological Applications of Microalgae: Advances, Potential and Future Challenges: A review," Blue Economy: Vol. 4 : Iss. 1 , Article 7.
Available at: https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.57241/2805-2994.1054

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This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-No Derivative Works 4.0 International License.