Like many other unicellular organisms, diatoms substitute membrane phospholipids with non-phosphorus analogues, for example betaine (nitrogen based) or sulfolipids under phosphate restriction. This process has been investigated at the level of the lipid headgroups, but the effect on fatty acid composition remains unknown.1
It has been estimated that marine planktonic diatoms yield up to 25% of global primary production. 2 Diatoms represent therefore, a significant source of lipids in the water column and flux to the sediments.
Phosphate is spatially and temporally scarce enough in surface waters to limit primary production. 1
Mr. Jonathon E Hunter (Postgraduate Research Student)
Prof. Rachel Mills (Supervisor)
Prof. George Attard (Supervisor)
Prof. Anthony Postle (Supervisor)
Dr.?Mark Moore (Supervisor)
1. Martin, P., Van Mooy, B. A. S., Heithoff, A. & Dyhrman, S. T. Phosphorus supply drives rapid turnover of membrane phospholipids in the diatom Thalassiosira pseudonana. ISME J 5, 1057-1060 (2011).
2. Hoek, C., Mann, D. G. & Jahns, H. M. Algae: An Introduction to Phycology. Cambridge University Press , 623 (1995).
3. Bligh, E. G. & Dyer, W. J. A Rapid Method of Total Lipid Extraction and Purification. Can J Biochem Physiol ?37, 911-917 (1959).
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