Research findings on the production of nucleic acid raw materials using the microalgae euglena were presented at the Osaka 2023 Society for Transdisciplinary Research conference.

Euglena Co. Ltd. has affirmed the research outcomes that indicate the possibility of obtaining nucleic acids in significant quantities from the microalga Euglena (known as "Midori Mushi" in Japanese, hereafter referred to as "euglena"). These research findings were showcased at the Super-Different Fields Society of Japan Osaka Conference 2023, which took place on August 5th, 2023, at Obic Hall.

Research Objectives:

Nucleic acids encompass RNA and DNA, vital carriers of genetic information, and are increasingly gaining attention as valuable resources for nutritional supplements, sunscreens, pharmaceuticals, and bioplastics. Due to their extraction from living organisms, nucleic acids are readily available in substantial quantities, holding promise as environmentally friendly polymer materials in the future. Notably, microalgae boast high biomass productivity, rendering nucleic acid extraction from them more efficient compared to other biological sources. Establishing effective extraction methods is imperative. Previously, we have successfully generated and advanced biofuels that incorporate oil from euglena in their composition. Concurrently, we're investigating ways to utilize the residual euglena post-oil extraction. Exploiting the nucleic acids contained within this residue could prove to be a productive avenue.

Research Content and Results: In this study, nucleic acids were extracted from euglena using the ethanol precipitation method. Given that broccoli buds are commonly employed due to their abundant cells suitable for DNA extraction, we verified the extraction efficiency by comparing it with broccoli buds as a model.

The outcomes are detailed in Table 1 below.

Sample Name	A260/A280	Yield mg/g
Broccoli	-	0.08
Euglena (Simple Method)	1.58	0.12
Euglena (Heat Method)	2.08	3.26

Table 1: Comparison of Extraction Efficiency Between Broccoli and Euglena

A260/A280 represents nucleic acid purity, with an A260/280 ratio greater than 1.8 signifying good purity. Yield is calculated as (yield µg/g) = 50 x L x (dilution rate), with L's absorbance set at 1, resulting in 50 µg/mL.

These findings suggest the potential of Euglena as a nucleic acid raw material with high yield and extraction efficiency. Going forward, our objective is to further refine nucleic acid extraction conditions, alongside advancing research on scaling up and utilization methods. The Company is committed to pursuing research for the betterment of the environment and society.

About Ishigaki Island Euglena:

Euglena is a type of algae akin to wakame seaweed, kelp, and chlorella, showcasing characteristics of both animals and plants. Recent research into the functionality of paramyrons, a distinct β-glucan component within euglena, has been making strides. These findings hold potential for applications in the healthcare sector, encompassing food and cosmetics.

About Euglena Co., Ltd.:

This company achieved a groundbreaking feat as the world's first to successfully implement outdoor mass cultivation technology for the microalgae euglena (referred to as "Midori Mushi" in Japanese) on Ishigaki Island. Beyond developing and marketing functional foods, cosmetics, and products utilizing euglena and chlorella produced on Ishigaki Island, the company delves into biofuel production and offers genetic analysis services. The Euglena GENKI Programme, initiated in 2014, has been delivering nutrient-rich euglena cookies to children in Bangladesh. Starting April 2019, the program has expanded to encompass all Group products, including cosmetics. Euglena Co., Ltd. was listed on the First Section of the Tokyo Stock Exchange in December 2014. The company upholds "Sustainability First" as its guiding philosophy, steering its business endeavors. Website link

About Tokyo Nucleic Acid Synthesis Co.:

TKG Therapeutics, Inc. is a Japan-based biotechnology company, established on April 1, 2022, with a mission to transform cancer treatment through the development of innovative, targeted therapies using breakthrough Oncolytic Hairpin DNA technology. Their strong collaborative network of experts and research partners is the driving force behind our groundbreaking research.