Abstract
It is well known that terrestrial environments host an immense microbial biodiversity. Exposed to different types of stress, such as UV radiation, temperature fluctuations, water availability and the inter- / intra-specific competition for resources, terrestrial microorganisms have been evolved to produce a large spectrum of bioactive molecules. Bacteria, archaea, protists, fungi and algae have shown a high potential of producing biomolecules for pharmaceutical or other industrial purposes as they combine a sustainable, relatively low-cost and fast-production process. Herein, we provide an overview of the different bioactive molecules produced by terrestrial microorganisms with skin protecting applications. The high content in polyphenolic and carotenoid compounds produced by several strains, as well as the presence of exopolysaccharides, melanins, indole and pyrrole derivatives, mycosporines, carboxylic acids and other molecules, are discussed in the context of their antioxidant, photo-protective and skin-whitening activity. Relevant biotechnological tools developed for the enhanced production of high added value natural products, as well as the protecting effect of some antioxidant, hydrolytic and degrading enzymes are also discussed. Furthermore, we describe classes of microbial compounds that are used or have the potential to be used as antimicrobials, moisturizers, biosurfactants, pigments, flavorings and fragrances.
Highlights
Microorganisms are extremely diverse organisms, including bacteria, archaea, protists, fungi and algae
We provide an overview of the different bioactive compounds with skin protecting effect isolated, from a broad range of terrestrial microorganisms including bacteria, algae, fungi and protists
This is the case of retinol, the most active form of Vitamin A, a skin-whitening agent that has been synthesized by the esterification of palmitic acid using a modified lipase B from Candida antarctica (CALB) and a modified lipase from Pseudomonas fluorescens, in order to maximize its solubility in water and minimize skin irritation
Summary
Microorganisms are extremely diverse organisms, including bacteria, archaea, protists, fungi and algae. In the last decade, microorganisms have attracted a great deal of attention as potential leading producers of promising compounds for cosmetic and/or cosmeceutical purposes [6]. Among these compounds, polyphenols, quinones and aldehydes have been reported in several studies as functional active ingredients for the maintenance of skin homeostasis (e.g., antioxidants, UV protecting, skin whitening) as well as coloring, flavoring, stabilizing and antibacterial agents [2]. We provide an overview of the different bioactive compounds with skin protecting effect (and of cosmetic and cosmeceutical interest) isolated, from a broad range of terrestrial microorganisms including bacteria, algae, fungi and protists.
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