Obtaining Bioproducts from the Studies of Signals and Interactions between Microalgae and Bacteria

Abstract

The applications of microalgae biomass have been widely studied worldwide. The classical processes used in outdoor cultivations of microalgae, in closed or open photobioreactors, occur in the presence of bacteria. Understanding how communication between cells occurs through quorum sensing and evaluating co-cultures allows the production of microalgae and cyanobacteria to be positively impacted by bacteria, in order to guarantee safety and profitability in the production process. In addition, the definition of the effects that occur during an interaction, promotes insights to improve the production of biomolecules, and to develop innovative products. This review presents the interactions between microalgae and bacteria, including compounds exchanges and communication, and addresses the development of new pharmaceutical, cosmetic and food bioproducts from microalgae based on these evaluations, such as prebiotics, vegan skincare products, antimicrobial compounds, and culture media with animal free protein for producing vaccines and other biopharmaceutical products. The use of microalgae as raw biomass or in biotechnological platforms is in line with the fulfillment of the 2030 Agenda related to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Short-Term Toxicity of ZnO Nanoparticles on Microalgae at Different Initial Nutrient Concentrations

“…Despite the absence of nitrates, biomass growth was observed, and there was a high impact of ZnO NPs, especially at a concentration of 810 mg/L, which was the highest concentration of ZnO tested. The increase in microalgae biomass is likely due to the release of nutrients from the lysis of dead algal cells, which provide nutrients to the culture solution [30,31]. The highest cell number was observed on the fourth day in the control culture and the lowest ZnO NPs concentration (0.081 mg/L), which were at 8.8 × 10 4 cells/mL and 4.6 × 10 4 cells/mL, respectively.…”

Net Photosynthesis and Biomass Production in Stevia, Eggplant, and Cowpea Can Be Improved by Fertilization with Cyanobacteria (Limnospira maxima)

“…The global Stevia market size is estimated to be valued at USD 647.7 million in 2022 and is projected to grow at a rate of 8.0% to USD 1.14 billion in 2028 [6]. However, information regarding production limitations, grower perceptions, and preferences remains limited in scope [7]. Among these deficiencies, the low transfer of sustainable technologies such as organic fertilization and its applicability in production systems is noteworthy [8,9].…”