Thraustochytrids | |
---|---|
SEM image of thraustochytrid showing ectoplasmic net. | |
Scientific classification | |
Domain: | Eukaryota |
Clade: | Diaphoretickes |
Clade: | SAR |
Clade: | Stramenopiles |
Phylum: | Bigyra |
Class: | Labyrinthulea |
Order: | Thraustochytrida Sparrow, 1973 |
Families | |
Synonyms | |
Labyrinthulales |
Thraustochytrids are single-celled saprotrophic eukaryotes (decomposers) that are widely distributed in marine ecosystems, and which secrete enzymes including, but not limited to amylases, proteases, phosphatases.[1][2][3][4][5][6] They are most abundant in regions with high amounts of detritus and decaying plant material.[1] They play an important ecological role in mangroves, where they aid in nutrient cycling by decomposing decaying matter.[7][8][9][10] Additionally, they contribute significantly to the synthesis of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs): docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), which are essential fatty acids for the growth and reproduction of crustaceans.[11][12][13] Thraustochytrids are members of the class Labyrinthulea, a group of protists that had previously been incorrectly categorized as fungi due to their similar appearance and lifestyle.[14] With the advent of DNA sequencing technology, labyrinthulomycetes were appropriately placed with other stramenopiles and subsequently categorized as a group of Labyrinthulomycetes.
There are several characteristics which are unique to Thraustochytrids, including their cell wall made of extracellular non-cellulosic scales, zoospores with characteristic heterokont flagella, and a bothrosome-produced ectoplasmic net, which is used for extracellular digestion.[15][16][17][18][19][20][21][22][23] Thraustochytrids are morphologically variable throughout their life cycle. They have a main vegetative asexual cycle, which can vary depending on the genus.[24][10] While sexual reproduction has been observed in this group, it remains poorly understood.[25]
Thraustochytrids are of particular biotechnical interest due to their high concentrations of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), palmitic acid, carotenoids, and sterols, all of which have beneficial effects to human health.[10][17][26][27][28][29][30][31][32] Thraustochytrids rely on a plethora of resources such as various sources of organic carbon (vitamins and sugars), and inorganic salts throughout their life cycle.[33][34][35][36][37][38][39][40][41] Scientists have devised several potential uses for thraustochytrids stemming around increasing DHA, fatty acids, and squalene concentrations in vivo by either changing the genetic makeup or medium composition/conditioning.[42][43][44][45][46][47][48] There have also been some breakthroughs which have resulted in gene transfers to plant species in order to make isolation of certain oils easier and cost effective.[49][50] Thraustochytrids are currently cultured for use in fish feed and production of dietary supplements for humans and animals.[51][52][53] In addition, scientists are currently researching new methodologies to convert waste water into useful products like squalene, which can then be utilized for the production of biofuel.[54][55][56][57][58]
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