Why do microorganisms produce rhamnolipids?

Abstract

We review the environmental role of rhamnolipids in terms of microbial life and activity. A large number of previous research supports the idea that these glycolipids mediate the uptake of hydrophobic substrates by bacterial cells. This feature might be of highest priority for bioremediation of spilled hydrocarbons. However, current evidence confirms that rhamnolipids primarily play a role in surface-associated modes of bacterial motility and are involved in biofilm development. This might be an explanation why no direct pattern of hydrocarbon degradation was often observed after rhamnolipids supplementation. This review gives insight into the current state of knowledge on how rhamnolipids operate in the microbial world.

Effects of Null Mutation of the Heat-Shock Gene htpG on the Production of Virulence Factors by Pseudomonas Aeruginosa

“…Rhamnolipids appear to be crucial in each phase of biofilm development, where they reportedly create fluid-filled channels for the passage of water and oxygen. These compounds are particularly important in swarming motility [45][46][47]. Rhamnolipids can cause lysis of many cells of the human immune system [14,45].…”

“…These compounds are particularly important in swarming motility [45][46][47]. Rhamnolipids can cause lysis of many cells of the human immune system [14,45]. They are also very important for bacterial biofilm formation due to their ability to create channels for the movement of water and oxygen [48].…”

Functional polypropylene composites filled with ultra-fine magnesium hydroxide

“…This is especially true of opportunistic pathogens such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa, which adhere to implants and live tissue [28]. The virulence displayed by this taxon is mostly associated with the secretion of polymeric substances such as rhamnolipids, which promote bacterial motility as well as cellular adherence and subsequent biofilm formation [29].…”

Biosurfactant: Pharmaceutical Perspective

“…Rhamnolipids congeners and its homologues are produced at different concentrations by species of Pseudomonas [14]. Sophorolipids are produced by different strains of the yeast, Torulopsis [15,16].…”