Microalgae: Current Trends in Basic Research and Applications

Dear Colleagues,

Microalgae are used in a wide range of potential industrial and commercial applications due to their fast growth rates and rich bioactive compound contents. The first use of microalgae by humans likely dates back to 2000 years ago, when the Chinese used Nostoc to survive during famines. More recently, several technologies and processes have been developed for the use of microalgae in many areas, some of which are as follows:

1. Biofuels: Microalgae can be used as feedstock to produce biofuels such as biodiesel and bioethanol, offering a sustainable alternative to fossil fuels.
2. Food and nutraceuticals: Microalgae are used as a raw material for health supplements and functional foods.
3. Pharmaceuticals: Microalgae can be used as bio-manufactories to produce biologically active compounds with potential therapeutic benefits.
4. Cosmetics: The high antioxidant and vitamin contents in microalgae make them valuable in skincare and cosmetic products.
5. Animal feed: Microalgae can be used as nutritious feed for livestock, poultry, and aquaculture.
6. Wastewater treatment: Microalgae can be used to remove pollutants in wastewater and, simultaneously, for the production of biomass that can be further utilized.
7. Biofertilizers: Microalgae can be used to enhance soil fertility and promote plant growth.

We invite you to submit manuscripts related to the applications of microalgae in the areas mentioned above, as well as any associated topics. We are looking for both original research and review articles. Authors who would like to contribute review papers should contact one of the Topic Editors to discuss the suitability of the topic before submitting the manuscript. Authors can choose to submit their manuscripts for publication in one of the participating journals, which are listed below.

We look forward to receiving your submissions and would like to thank you in advance for considering contributing to this Topic.

Sincerely,

Dr. Nhuan Nghiem
Prof. Dr. Tae Hyun Kim
Topic Editors