Biotechnological Potential of <em>Chlamydomonas reinhardtii</em>: Advances, Challenges, and Applications

The biotechnological potential of microalgae represents a uniquely versatile platform, owing to a combination of inherent biological traits that make these organisms highly promising for a wide range of applications. For several decades, industrial biotechnology has predominantly relied on the metabolic engineering of bacteria and yeasts. However, microalgae offer a compelling alternative: they retain the advantages of unicellular systems while also possessing the capacity for autotrophic growth. This dual nature enables the development of new, more economically favorable biotechnological processes within relatively short timeframes, building upon the extensive experience accumulated with traditional microbial hosts. Bioproduction in heterotrophic microorganisms often requires strict sterility and complex, costly media formulations. In contrast, microalgae provide a more economical route for large-scale production of many compounds, particularly when low-cost, high-volume output is desired. A central advantage of microalgae lies in their highly efficient photosynthesis and their ability to capture carbon dioxide, ensuring a continuous supply of both substrate and energy for biosynthesis. This review summarizes recent advances in the biotechnological use of Chlamydomonas reinhardtii, highlighting its physiological, genetic, and metabolic characteristics, state-of-the-art engineering tools, and applications in medicine, food, industrial production, and environmental remediation.