Fast-track production of astaxanthin by reduced cultivation time with the “red cell inoculation system” (RCIS) and various chemical cues in Haematococcus lacustris

Slow growth is the major obstacle in the production of astaxanthin in Haematococcus lacustris. Introduction of a “red cell inoculation system (RCIS)” reduced the culture time of H. lacustris by 43% by increasing its growth rate and inducing the earlier synthesis of astaxanthin. Red mature H. lacustris cells rather than green cyst cells were re-inoculated to decrease the growth period from 7 to 4 days by producing more zoospore cells. Starved red cells could take up nutrients quickly, thereby achieving faster growth. To further shorten the astaxanthin induction time, FeSO4, NaCl, and NaHCO3 were added to the cells, and their effects were compared. These chemicals accelerated astaxanthin biosynthesis, decreasing the production period from 7 to 4 days. This study focused on faster astaxanthin production to achieve economic feasibility by RCIS and chemical cues. Fast-track growth and a synthesis induction strategy enabled a more economic and efficient production of astaxanthin in H. lacustris.