Removal mechanisms and metabolic responses of Chlorella pyrenoidosa to dissolved organic phosphorus.

[Display omitted] • Chlorella pyrenoidosa could effectively remove dissolved organic phosphorus (DOP). • The absorption of DOP mechanisms included direct and post-hydrolysis absorption. • DOP showed higher growth-promoting effect and increased microalgal biomass yield. • G-6-P promoted central carbon metabolism and biosynthetic pathways. • ATP increased photosynthetic activity but inhibited TCA cycle and purine metabolism. Microalgae-based biotechnology holds significant potential for addressing dual challenges of phosphorus removal and recovery from wastewater; however, the removal mechanism and metabolic adaptation of microalgae to dissolved organic phosphorus (DOP) are still unclear. This study investigated the removal mechanisms and metabolomic responses of the Chlorella pyrenoidosa to different DOP forms, including adenosine triphosphate (ATP), glucose-6-phosphate (G-6-P), and β-glycerophosphate (β-GP). The results showed C. pyrenoidosa could efficiently take up above 96% DOP through direct transport and post-hydrolysis pathways. The uptake of inorganic phosphorus (IP) followed pseudo first order kinetic model, while DOP followed pseudo second order kinetic model. Metabolite profiling revealed substantial alterations in central carbon metabolism depending on the DOP source. G-6-P upregulated glycolytic and TCA cycle intermediates, reflecting enhanced carbohydrates, amino acids and nucleotides biosynthesis. In contrast, ATP down-regulated carbohydrate and purine metabolism, inhibiting sustainable growth of microalgae. This study offers theoretical support for phosphorus-containing wastewater treatment using microalgae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]