Japanese Researchers Develop Cyanobacteria Strains for SAF Feedstock Production

Researchers in Japan have developed engineered cyanobacterial strains capable of producing and secreting free fatty acids (FFAs), a key feedstock for sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and renewable diesel. The project was carried out by a joint team from Saitama University, Taisei Corporation, Chubu University and Kazusa DNA Research Institute.

The researchers focused on the freshwater cyanobacterium Synechococcus elongatus PCC 7942, which is widely used in photosynthesis research. Instead of inserting foreign genes, the team enhanced the microorganism’s existing genetic functions to improve FFA production and secretion into the surrounding culture medium.

The findings, published in Biotechnology for Biofuels and Bioproducts, highlight the growing potential of cyanobacteria-based biofuel technologies. Researchers believe the approach could support future low-carbon fuel production for the aviation and transportation sectors while simplifying commercialization and improving biological stability.