Exploring the potential of Thraustochytrids and other microorganisms for sustainable omega-3 production: a comprehensive review of patents, perspectives, and scale-up strategies

Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA, C22H32O2, C22:6 omega-3) and Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA, C20H30O2 C20:5 omega-3), are biomolecules from the group of omega 3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA). In recent decades, a large number of clinical and epidemiological studies have demonstrated the benefits of this molecule for improving human health and preventing various diseases. Based on this, the demand for this bioproduct has grown year after year, to the point where traditional long-term production cannot keep up with the consumer market itself. With this problem in mind, this review article aims to provide an overview of the current state of sustainable production of omega-3 PUFAs. A comparative survey of microorganisms from the thraustochytrid family with other species of microorganisms from other kingdoms and families was carried out to show the best potential for microbial oil production. The comparison involved an in-depth analysis of the scientific literature and patents currently registered on the subject. The results showed that thraustochytrids have more advantages and practicality in a wider variety of substrates and culture media than their other competitors. Therefore, with the ever-increasing demand for human and animal needs, the study and application of species that produce and accumulate fatty acids is becoming increasingly urgent. Thus, obtaining omega-3 through microbial oil represents a sustainable and economically viable alternative for the future.