Recent advances in Emulsan production, purification, and application: Exploring bioemulsifiers unique potentials

• Published in: International journal of biological macromolecules 2024-10, Vol.278 (Pt 1), p.133672, Article 133672
• Main Authors: D'Almeida, Alan Portal, de Albuquerque, Tiago Lima, Rocha, Maria Valderez Ponte
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Acinetobacter - metabolism; Biodegradation, Environmental; Ecofriendly stabilizer; Emulsifying Agents - chemistry; Emulsions; Polymeric emulsifier; Polysaccharides, Bacterial - biosynthesis; Polysaccharides, Bacterial - chemistry; Polysaccharides, Bacterial - isolation & purification; Surface-active agent; Surface-Active Agents - chemistry
• ISSN: 0141-8130; 1879-0003; 1879-0003
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.133672

Bioemulsifiers are compounds produced by microorganisms that reduce the interfacial forces between hydrophobic substances and water. Due to their potential in the pharmaceutical and food industries and their efficiency in oil spill remediation, they have been the subject of study in the scientific community while being safe, biodegradable, and sustainable compared to synthetic options. These biomolecules have high molecular weight and polymeric structures, distinguishing them from traditional biosurfactants. Emulsan, a bioemulsifier exopolysaccharide, is produced by Acinetobacter strains and is highly efficient in forming stable emulsions. Its low toxicity and high potential as an emulsifying agent promote its application in pharmaceutical and food industries as a drug-delivery vehicle and emulsion stabilizer. Due to the high environmental impact of oil spills, bioemulsifiers have great potential for environmental applications, such as bioremediation. This unique feature gives them a distinct mechanism of action in forming emulsions, resulting in minimal environmental impact. A better understanding of these aspects can improve the use of bioemulsifiers and environmental remediation in various industries. This review will discuss the production and characterization of Emulsan, focusing on recent advancements in cultivation conditions, purification techniques, compound identification, and ecotoxicity. [Display omitted] •Bioemulsifiers from Acinetobacter: a sustainable and less toxic alternative to synthetic emulsifiers•Emulsan: a high molecular weight bioemulsifier with versatile industrial applications•Genetic and molecular insights into Acinetobacter bioemulsifier production.•Advancements in bioemulsifier production and purification for enhanced industrial applications.