C. reinhardtii is a light-sensitive green alga whose use has recently extended beyond the life sciences into further research fields such as biophysics, statistical physics, fluid dynamics, and bioengineering. While some technical aspects of cultivating C. reinhardtii align with standard microbiological procedures, growing and reproducing this green alga requires tailored cultivation protocols due to its light sensitivity and simultaneous motility. Unlike other model organisms in biology, C. reinhardtii not only requires specific temperature and atmospheric conditions but also a specialised lighting environment adapted to its circadian rhythm.
“Thanks to our many years of experience, colleagues from around the world frequently reach out to us with problems and questions regarding their cell cultivation. This encouraged us to document our expertise in a detailed and accessible way, and to make it available to the scientific community in the form of a comprehensive methods manual,” says Prof. Dr. Oliver Bäumchen, Chair of Experimental Physics V at the University of Bayreuth.
The verification of successful cultivation is based on precise characterisation of cell shape, population growth, and cell motility. For this, the researchers use microscopic techniques in combination with specially developed computer-based image analysis tools. Alongside the step-by-step protocol, the team is also making the algorithms and computer code freely available as open-source software. Additionally, the protocol includes troubleshooting sections that describe common problems and sources of error, along with guidance on how these issues can be resolved in the laboratory. Finally, the methods paper includes a list of related microorganisms and genetically modified strains that can also be successfully cultivated and analysed using the described methods.
“The Culture Collection of Algae at Göttingen University provides its living strains for research, teaching, and biotechnology worldwide. Our Chlamydomonas strains are particularly in demand. In this new, very detailed guide, we have compiled our extensive knowledge on how to cultivate them. With it, we particularly support researchers who are working with this fascinating model organism for the first time,” adds Dr. Maike Lorenz from the Department of Experimental Phycology and Culture Collection of Algae at the University of Göttingen.
The methods paper is the result of a collaboration between the University of Bayreuth and Culture Collection of Algae at Göttingen University. The study was funded by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD).
