In Vitro and In Ovo Toxicity Analysis of Lipopeptides Biosurfactants Produced by Bacillus velezensis Strain AF_3B

Biosurfactants are increasingly recognized for their versatile applications across industries, including bioremediation and pharmaceuticals. Among these, lipopeptides, produced notably by Bacillus species, demonstrate promising surface activity and biocompatibility. This study investigates the toxicity of lipopeptides biosurfactants derived from the AF_3B strain of Bacillus velezensis. The research delves into the production of lipopeptides biosurfactants from AF_3B and their characterization through antibacterial bioassays, revealing a significant inhibition of various bacterial strains. In vitro assays demonstrate the ability of lipopeptides biosurfactants to suppress the growth of key mycotoxigenic fungi (Aspergillus niger and Fusarium oxysporum) maximum to 86%, confirming their potential as a biological control. In ovo toxicity is assessed by injecting fertile chicken embryos with varying doses (30, 15, 7.5, 3.75, and 1.87 mg/mL) of lipopeptides biosurfactants obtained from AF_3B. The embryos exhibit normal development and high survival rates, indicating negligible toxicity. Overall, this study highlights B. velezensis strain AF_3B as a valuable candidate against bacterial and fungal diseases and foodborne pathogens, and in healthcare sector, underscoring the potential of lipopeptides biosurfactants in diverse industrial applications.