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Biosurfactants from yeasts: characteristics, production and application
Priscilla F F Amaral1, Maria Alice Z Coelho, Isabel M J Marrucho
1Department of Biochemistry Engineering, Escola de Química/Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
Advances in Experimental Medicine and Biology
|June 16, 2010
Summary
Yeasts are increasingly researched for producing biosurfactants, offering eco-friendly alternatives to synthetic surfactants. This review highlights yeast-derived biosurfactants, production factors, and industrial applications.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Biotechnology
- Industrial Chemistry
Background:
- Biosurfactants are biodegradable, low-toxicity compounds from microorganisms.
- Yeast-derived biosurfactants offer advantages over bacterial counterparts due to reduced pathogenicity.
- Growing interest in sustainable and functional industrial chemicals drives biosurfactant research.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review identified biosurfactants produced by yeasts.
- To analyze key parameters influencing yeast biosurfactant production.
- To explore industrial applications and future development of yeast biosurfactants.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of scientific publications on yeast biosurfactants.
- Analysis of factors affecting biosurfactant yield and characteristics.
- Evaluation of industrial applicability and cost-effectiveness.
Main Results:
- Numerous biosurfactants have been identified from various yeast species.
- Production parameters like substrate, pH, and temperature significantly impact yield.
- Yeast biosurfactants show potential in diverse industrial sectors, including food, pharma, and environmental remediation.
Conclusions:
- Yeasts represent a promising source for sustainable biosurfactant production.
- Optimization of production processes is crucial for industrial viability.
- Further research is needed to reduce costs and expand applications of yeast biosurfactants.
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