Identification of bioactive genes from cyanobacteria, Arthrospira platensis. Bioactive genes in Spirulina

To gain genetic insights into the protein-rich microalga, the transcriptome of Arthrospira platensis was sequenced using Illumina technology and de novo assembly was carried out. A total of 6023 transcripts were present in the transcriptome among which 4616 transcripts were annotated with specific functions. Gene ontology analysis revealed that the genes are mainly involved in three major functions such as biological (16.19%), cellular (41.47%) and molecular (42.34%) processes. Pathway analysis indicated that majority of genes are involved in amino acid biosynthesis and metabolism which is depicting the protein-rich nature of spirulina. Other major pathways are involved in carbohydrate metabolism, lipid metabolism, metabolism of co-factors and vitamins, antioxidant mechanism and metabolism of terpenoids and polyketides.