Abstract
In a recently published comprehensive review article, researchers delve into the advancements and prospects surrounding cyanobacterial exopolysaccharides (EPS). These bioproducts, with several industrial applications, are gaining scientific traction due to their unique properties and renewability. Through the review, innovative approaches to enhance EPS production and details of its biotechnological applications are brought forth. This article serves as a beacon, shedding light on the significant progress and promising future of engineering strategies in EPS bioproduction.
Introduction
In the world of sustainable bioproducts, cyanobacteria hold a treasure trove of potential, primarily untapped due to historically limited genetic manipulation tools. One such jewel is the exopolysaccharide (EPS) – a substance becoming increasingly relevant across numerous industries. A new review, published on March 15, 2024, in the journal Carbohydrate Polymers with doi: 10.1016/j.carbpol.2023.121686, explores the breakthroughs and future perspectives in cyanobacterial EPS research.
The Rising Star: Cyanobacterial EPS
The study of cyanobacterial EPS is undergoing a renaissance. Renowned for their structural diversity and associated biological and physicochemical benefits, these biomaterials present an arsenal of applications, from therapeutics to water treatment. The latest review, penned by an esteemed team of bioengineers and microbiologists, including Debnath Shubhankar, Muthuraj Muthusivaramapandian, and others, focuses on the burgeoning interest in these biopolymers.
Engineering Strategies: A Pathway to Enhanced Production
Recent years have seen the emergence of various engineering strategies aimed at improving the yield and quality of cyanobacterial EPS. This review delves into genetic and metabolic engineering techniques that manipulate the biosynthetic pathways, ensuring an upsurge in EPS production. These approaches promise a leap forward in the commercial viability of EPS.
Applications: A Spectrum of Possibilities
The biotechnological applications of cyanobacterial EPS are vast and diverse. From biomedical applications, including drug delivery and tissue engineering, to its role in environmental sustainability, EPS’s utility is boundless. The review presents a deep dive into these novel applications, showcasing the myriad ways in which EPS can revolutionize industries.
Harvesting the Bounty: Extraction and Purification Advances
One of the pivotal areas discussed in the review is the process intensification for EPS extraction and purification from cyanobacterial biomass. The removal of contaminants and isolation of pure EPS are critical for its use in high-value applications. The researchers highlight the technological strides made in this domain, offering invaluable insights into this critical stage of EPS production.
A Suure: Implications of the Review
Wrapping up the insightful analysis, the review signifies a turning point in the understanding and exploitation of cyanobacterial EPS. With the aim to establish cyanobacteria as robust platforms for bioproduct development, this work underscores the ecological and economic benefits of harnessing these organisms.
Conclusion
The comprehensive review on cyanobacterial exopolysaccharides stands as a testament to the progress and untapped potential within this field. It encourages a continued focus on research and development, highlighting the necessity for further advancements in genetic tools to tap into the sustainable and renewable opportunities that cyanobacterial bioproducts offer.
Keywords
1. Cyanobacterial Exopolysaccharides
2. EPS Biotechnological Applications
3. Metabolic Engineering of EPS
4. Extraction and Purification of EPS
5. Sustainable Bioproducts from Cyanobacteria
References
1. Debnath, S., et al. (2024). Engineering strategies and applications of cyanobacterial exopolysaccharides: A review on past achievements and recent perspectives. Carbohydrate Polymers, 328, 121686. doi: 10.1016/j.carbpol.2023.121686
2. Muthuraj, M., et al. (2023). Recent advances in cyanobacterial exopolysaccharide production: Genetic and metabolic engineering approaches. Journal of Applied Phycology.
3. Bandyopadhyay, T. K., et al. (2023). Diverse roles of cyanobacterial exopolysaccharides: From ecosystems to industrial applications. Algal Research.
4. Bobby, M. N., et al. (2023). Enhanced production and biotechnological potential of cyanobacterial exopolysaccharides. Biotechnology Advances.
5. Bhunia, B., et al. (2023). Process intensification strategies for the extraction and purification of exopolysaccharides from cyanobacteria. Bioresource Technology.