CD Biosynsis offers specialized Phaeodactylum tricornutum-Based Assay and Modeling Services, providing an advanced analytical and computational framework for marine synthetic biology. As a key model for diatom biology, Phaeodactylum tricornutum is an essential platform for studying marine carbon cycling, light-harvesting efficiency, and the production of high-value omega-3 fatty acids like EPA. Our services bridge the gap between complex algal experiments and predictive systems biology by integrating high-resolution phenotypic assays with sophisticated genome-scale metabolic models (GEMs).
Our integrated platform is designed to accelerate the "Design-Build-Test-Learn" cycle in algal biotechnology. By combining multi-omics data—including transcriptomics, proteomics, and lipidomics—with quantitative physiological measurements, we create a digital twin of the diatom's metabolic network. This allows researchers to simulate the impact of genetic modifications or environmental shifts in silico before committing to expensive laboratory trials. Whether you are investigating the dynamics of the four-membrane chloroplast, the regulation of the carbon concentrating mechanism (CCM), or the metabolic requirements for peak lipid accumulation, our assay and modeling services provide the quantitative depth needed for rational strain design and process optimization.
Get a QuoteAchieving a mechanistic understanding of Phaeodactylum tricornutum requires the integration of diverse data streams. Our platform addresses the unique biological architecture of diatoms, such as the spatial separation of metabolic pathways across the nucleus, endoplasmic reticulum, and complex chloroplast. We employ automated assay systems to capture high-resolution temporal data on biomass growth, pigment composition, and intracellular flux. These measurements serve as the ground truth for our computational models, ensuring that simulations reflect the actual physiological constraints of marine algae.
By utilizing advanced analytical tools such as Pulse-Amplitude-Modulation (PAM) fluorometry and comprehensive lipidomic profiling via GC-MS, we generate a multidimensional map of the cell's metabolic state. This data-driven approach is particularly critical for projects aiming to redirect carbon flux away from primary storage products toward specialized bioproducts like fucoxanthin. Our modeling services identify metabolic bottlenecks and competitive nodes that are often invisible to standard molecular biology techniques, providing a holistic view of the algal factory’s efficiency and resilience under the variable conditions of industrial photobioreactors.
We provide a wide array of standardized and customized assays to quantify the performance of your Phaeodactylum tricornutum strains.
PAM Fluorometry
Quantification of photosynthetic health (Fv/Fm), non-photochemical quenching (NPQ), and electron transport rates (ETR) to evaluate light utilization efficiency.
Gas Exchange
Real-time measurement of CO2 fixation and O2 evolution rates to quantify the efficiency of the Carbon Concentrating Mechanism (CCM).
Lipidomics & Pigments
Detailed profiling of fatty acid methyl esters (FAMEs), triacylglycerols (TAGs), and carotenoids like fucoxanthin using GC-MS and HPLC.
13C-Flux Analysis
Stable isotope labeling experiments to map the actual carbon flow through central metabolism and identify resource competition nodes.
Stress Resilience
Assessing cellular viability and ROS production under environmental stresses such as high salinity, temperature shifts, and nitrogen starvation.
Growth Kinetics
High-resolution growth curve modeling to determine specific growth rates and biomass doubling times in varied photobioreactor geometries.
Our computational platform converts raw biological data into predictive models that guide engineering decisions.
1. GEM Reconstruction
2. Flux Balance Analysis (FBA)
3. Dynamic Modeling
4. Multi-Omics Integration
Development of Genome-Scale Metabolic Models (GEMs) specific to Phaeodactylum tricornutum, accounting for its unique organelle compartments.
Utilizing FBA to predict theoretical maximum yields of bioproducts and identify the optimal genetic targets for metabolic engineering.
Integrating transcriptomic and proteomic datasets into metabolic models to increase the biological accuracy of flux predictions and identify regulatory constraints. Delivery of comprehensive modeling reports.
Diatom Expertise
Expertise in modeling the intricate coordination between the nuclear and the four-membrane chloroplast genomes, unique to diatoms.
Predictive Precision
Reduce laboratory "trial and error" by using validated computational models to prioritize the most effective genetic interventions.
High-Resolution Data
Models are parameterized with high-quality experimental data from our state-of-the-art analytical suite (GC-MS/HPLC/PAM).
Scalable Solutions
Our assays and models reflect industrial cultivation conditions, facilitating the transition from lab-scale to large photobioreactors.
Technical insights for your diatom assay and modeling project.
Contact Us1. What is a Genome-Scale Metabolic Model (GEM)?
A GEM is a mathematical representation of all metabolic reactions in an organism. In P. tricornutum, it allows us to simulate how carbon flows through different pathways under various conditions.
2. Can you model the metabolic flux between organelles?
Yes. Our models specifically account for the transport of metabolites across the complex four-membrane chloroplast of diatoms, which is critical for understanding carbon fixation.
3. What is the benefit of 13C-metabolic flux analysis?
13C labeling provides a direct snapshot of actual pathway usage in the living cell, allowing us to validate model predictions and identify metabolic bottlenecks in real-time.
4. Do you provide validation for the in silico predictions?
Yes. We recommend an integrated approach where we first model the changes and then perform the assays on the resulting engineered strains to confirm the results.
5. How does PAM fluorometry help in strain evaluation?
PAM allows us to non-invasively assess the health of the photosynthetic apparatus. It identifies strains with superior light-harvesting efficiency or better resistance to photo-inhibition.
6. Can you simulate industrial cultivation conditions?
Absolutely. We can parameterize our models with data from fluctuating light, temperature, and nutrient levels common in outdoor or large-scale photobioreactors.
7. What is the typical lead time for a modeling project?
Depending on the scope of the metabolic network being reconstructed, projects typically range from 12 to 18 weeks from data collection to final report delivery.
8. What formats are the modeling files provided in?
We typically provide the final model in SBML (Systems Biology Markup Language) format, compatible with major systems biology software like COBRA or OptFlux.
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The CRISPR gene editing system with its Cas9 version stands as a vital instrument for current biological research. CRISPR technology enables gene knockout (KO) through permanent gene expression blockage achieved by sequence disruption. Various scientific domains including disease modeling and drug screening employ this technology to study gene functions. CRISPR KO technology demonstrates high efficiency and precision but requires confirmation and verification post-implementation because unsatisfactory editing may produce off-target effects or incomplete gene knockouts which impact experimental result reliability. For precise and efficient Gene Editing Services - CD Biosynsis, Biosynsis offers comprehensive solutions tailored to your research needs.
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CD Biosynsis is a leading customer-focused biotechnology company dedicated to providing high-quality products, comprehensive service packages, and tailored solutions to support and facilitate the applications of synthetic biology in a wide range of areas.