Edible Fungi Melanin: Recent Advances in Extraction, Characterization, Biological Activity and Applications.

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Materials Science
• Mycology

Background:

• Natural melanin has biological activities but faces commercialization challenges like cost and extraction efficiency.
• Synthetic melanin differs from natural melanin, potentially affecting efficacy.
• Edible fungi produce eumelanin, offering a sustainable and accessible source for industrial melanin production.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive review of edible fungus-derived melanin.
• To deepen understanding of fungal melanin's extraction, structure, biological activity, and applications.
• To guide future research and industrial applications of fungal melanin.

Main Methods:

• Review of recent research on edible fungus melanin.
• Analysis of extraction methods and structural characterization techniques.
• Evaluation of biological activities and application areas.

Main Results:

• Edible fungi, particularly those producing eumelanin, are a promising sustainable source for melanin.
• Current research covers extraction, characterization, biological activities, and applications of fungal melanin.
• Key parameters for melanin differentiation and biosynthetic mechanisms require further investigation.

Conclusions:

• Edible fungus-derived melanin presents a viable, sustainable alternative to traditional sources.
• Further research into biosynthetic pathways is crucial for optimizing production and application.
• This review serves as a reference for researchers and aids in planning future studies on fungal melanin.