Biosurfactants as versatile molecules: a new concept of product for biorefineries and for action against neglected tropical diseases phase 1: screening of yeasts, fermentative production and physicochemical characterization

Abstract

Currently, researchers have studied the viability of the use of biomass, mainly agricultural and agro-industrial by-products, in the lignocellulosic biorefineries conception. In this context, research using lignocellulosic material as feedstock have been directed to second generation ethanol production, besides the requirement for products diversification in biorefineries, aiming the consolidation of these new technological platforms.Regarding these concerns, the biosurfactants are presented as viable alternatives to a new design of products to be considered in development of these biorefineries. The biosurfactants are microbial metabolites with surface-active, emulsifiers and antimicrobial properties, presenting a large application such as use in chemical, pharmaceutical, food and oil industries, as well as in agricultural sectors. This project, that it will be performed in two phases, has as main objectives the biotechnological production of biosurfactants by yeasts, using agricultural and agro-industrial by-products as carbon source. Biosurfactants will be firstly obtained and characterized, and thus, it will be developed biopesticides and nanoparticles, aiming future application as agent against larvae as Aedes aegypti, in adittion of the treatment of neglected tropical diseases such as leishmaniosis and schistosomiosis. (AU)