Resolving the “Thick-Wall Challenge” in Haematococcus pluvialis: From Metabolic Reprogramming to Clinical Translation

Astaxanthin, derived from Haematococcus pluvialis, is a potent antioxidant with significant therapeutic potential. However, its large-scale commercialization is hindered by the “thick-wall challenge”, a phenomenon where the stress conditions required for astaxanthin accumulation also trigger the formation of resistant secondary cell walls. This challenge complicates extraction and reduces bioaccessibility, thereby increasing production costs. Recent advancements have focused on uncoupling astaxanthin biosynthesis from cell wall reinforcement, utilizing metabolic engineering and strain selection to reduce wall formation while maintaining high yields. Furthermore, green extraction techniques, such as electrotechnologies and ionic liquids, are being explored to improve efficiency and environmental sustainability. This review synthesizes these innovations, including biorefinery systems that maximize biomass valorization, and discusses emerging clinical applications. We highlight the challenges in bridging the gap between laboratory successes and clinical translation, and suggest future directions for resolving the thick-wall challenge, advancing astaxanthin production, and expanding its therapeutic uses in nutraceuticals and pharmaceuticals.