Edible cyanobacteria

Synthesis of Macrocyclic and Linear Tetrapyrrole Compounds Corrinoid Compounds in Edible Cyanobacteria... 

Here, we reviewed recent studies that characterize the physiological functions of macrocylic and linear tetrapyrrole compounds from edible cyanobacteria. 

These results strongly suggest that these edible cyanobacteria are not suitable for use as B12 source, especially for vegetarians. 

Substantial quantities of edible cyanobacteria are produced globally to meet the high demands of both food and pharmaceutical industries. These cyanobacteria contain substantial quantities of phycobiliproteins, of which phycocy-anin, in particular, has various therapeutic effects owing to the linear tetrapyrrole chromophore phycocyanobilin. Cyanobacteria can also synthesize macrocyclic tetrapyrrole corrinoid compounds. However, various edible cyanobacteria contain substantial quantities of inactive pseudo-Bi2 rather than active Bi2- To overcome this nutritional defect of edible cyanobacteria, it is vital to determine the genetic, biochemical, and physiological properties of pseudo-Bi2-... 

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