The Cyanobacteria Genus Aphanothece: Bioactive Compounds and Applications in Biotechnology

Aphanothece is a genus of colonial cyanobacteria with a global distribution that is found in various aquatic and terrestrial environments. It has garnered interest because of its high content of amino acids, carbohydrates, fatty acids, and pigments, which possess bioactive and biotechnological properties. This review analyzes articles highlighting Aphanothece species in biotechnological contexts and describes their biochemical composition. Among its primary metabolites are glutamic acid, alanine, palmitic acid, chlorophyll a, echinenone, and β-carotene. The biotechnological potential of Aphanothece spans the fields of biofuel, health, agro-industry, and bioremediation. The notable bioactivities of species such us A. sacrum, A. pallida, and A. bullosa include photoprotective, immunostimulant, antimicrobial, anticancer, and biostimulant activities due to secondary metabolites such as mycosporine-like amino acids, peptides, betaines, and glycerophospholipids. The high production of hydrogen and lipids by A. halophytica supports its use in biofuels. Species such as A. microscopica are effective at treating agro-industrial and domestic effluents and water polluted by metals and hydrocarbons, alongside simultaneous CO₂ capture. This review provides information that can guide the sustainable use of Aphanothece species and identifies gaps in current knowledge, particularly in the development of commercial products. Continuous exploration of this genus can significantly promote environmental sustainability and biotechnological innovation.