Interdisciplinary Overview of Lipopeptide and Protein-Containing Biosurfactants

Biosurfactants are amphipathic molecules capable of lowering interfacial and superficial tensions. Produced by living organisms, these compounds act the same as chemical surfactants but with a series of improvements, the most notable being biodegradability. Biosurfactants have a wide diversity of categories. Within these, lipopeptides are some of the more abundant and widely known. Protein-containing biosurfactants are much less studied and could be an interesting and valuable alternative. The harsh temperature, pH, and salinity conditions that target organisms can sustain need to be understood for better implementation. Here, we will explore biotechnological applications via lipopeptide and protein-containing biosurfactants. Also, we discuss their natural role and the organisms that produce them, taking a glimpse into the possibilities of research via meta-omics and machine learning.

Automated summary

Biosurfactants are amphipathic molecules that can lower interfacial and superficial tensions. They are biodegradable and have a wide diversity of categories, with lipopeptides being the most abundant and well-known. Protein-containing biosurfactants are less studied but could be a valuable alternative. Understanding the harsh conditions that target organisms can sustain is crucial for successful implementation. This article explores the biotechnological applications of lipopeptide and protein-containing biosurfactants, as well as their natural role and the potential research possibilities using meta-omics and machine learning.