Perspectives in DHA production of Thraustochytrids

Docosahexaenoic acid ( DHA ) is a long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acid which has important physiological functions. Because of high content of DHA and fast growth rates, marine fungi-like protists, Thraustochytrids has recently attracted much attention. Thraustochytrids synthesize DHA using two main pathways:fatty acid synthesis (FAS) and polyketide synthesis (PKS) . Culture conditions such as carbon and nitrogen source, temperature and inorganic salt also affect DHA production. Now with the development of genetic engineering technology, it is possible to improve DHA yield with molecular methods. In this paper, recent developments and perspectives in producing DHA from Thraustochytrids were reviewed. This manuscript would be helpful for the development of industrial production of DHA.