Reviewer Comments - EERE

2011 Algae Platform Review – Reviewer Comments
Reviewer Comments are direct transcripts of commentary and material provided by the Platform’s
Review Panel. They have not been edited or altered by the Biomass Program.
Response: The funding amount has limited this to a laboratory-based study, but baseline productivity has
been measured (slides 9 and 11 in the presentation) and provides a basis for monitoring improvement. To
our knowledge, there is no existing data relating lab-based productivity to large-scale outdoor
productivity in any study system (and this is likely to be highly variable depending on the species),
therefore we cannot predict how our measure of improvement will translate to production. However, the
only way to determine this is to generate the improved strains and test them in both scenarios. Based on
first principles, it is logical to assume that at least some of the improvements generated in the lab will
result in improved production.
2. Technical Progress and Accomplishments
Please evaluate the degree to which the project has made progress in its objectives and stated project
management plan has met its objectives in achieving milestones and overcoming technical barriers.
Reviewer Comments
Reviewer: 1 Criteria Score: 6
Progress appears to be acceptable at this stage.
Reviewer: 2 Criteria Score: 8
The project is about 40% complete. Excellent progress on knockdown tools (antisense and RNAi) and
characterization of TAG under cell arrest by Si or N or MT inhibitors is evident. Transcriptomics of
Cyclotella are advanced, and key enzymes related to carbon flux are being characterized with good
progress.
Reviewer: 3 Criteria Score: 8
A whole-transcriptome analysis of TAG accumulation during silicon limitation in T. pseudonana is nearly
complete, and samples are prepared for a similar analysis of silicon and nitrogen limitation in C. cryptica.
Genetic manipulation tools have been developed. A clearer understanding of metabolic processes
involved in TAG accumulation has resulted, and target genes have been identified for manipulation.
Distinct stages during the TAG accumulation process have also been identified.
Reviewer: 4 Criteria Score: 10
See Overall Impressions text.
Reviewer: 5 Criteria Score: 6
The project has made progress in its objectives and seems to be on the way to meeting its milestones. The
timelines for different milestones were not specifically stated.
Reviewer: 6 Criteria Score: 8
Very good work at an appropriate pace.
Reviewer: 7 Criteria Score: 6
Strong initial progress, but it need to be calibrated to real world performance and commercial needs
Presenter Response
Progress appears to be acceptable at this stage. ----------------------------------------------------------------------
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