Biosurfactants: Structure, Functions and Productions

Abstract

Surfactants are widely used in many areas of our life. However, synthetic surfactants have a serious negative impact on the environment. They do not decompose well and can accumulate in ecosystems. Microbial biosurfactants can be an alternative to synthetic surfactants. They are characterized by a diverse structure, stable at critical temperatures, pH and can be obtained from various renewable raw materials. Goal: analysis and generalization of the available information on the main characteristics and features of the synthesis of surface-active substances of microbial origin. Results. The article describes the structure of the most important groups of biosurfactants of microbial origin, such as rhamnolipids, trehalolipids, and sophorolipids. The main producers of biosurfactants, as well as the areas of their application were characterized. Information about the main ways of their biosynthesis is discussed. Special attention in the review is paid to factors that are essential for the cultivation of microorganisms - the main producers of biosurfactants.