Fungal Azaphilone Pigments as Promising Natural Colorants

-Microscopic fungi form and excrete numerous and diverse secondary metabolites, including pigments of various colors, which may be used as an alternative to chemical and plant colorants used in industry. Azaphilone compounds, first discovered in fungi of the genus Monascus, are among the promising classes of fungal pigments. The review analyzes the publications on formation of azaphilone-type pigments in Monascus fungi, as well as in Talaromyces and Aspergillus cavernicola. Brief information is provided concerning the antimicrobial, antitumor, anti-inflammatory, and hypolipidemic activities of azaphilone pigments. Possible strategies for increasing the efficiency of the production process and directed synthesis of yellow, orange, and red pigments and their derivatives are discussed. In general, the review provides for assessment of the role of azaphilone pigments, as well as of the prospects and ways to expand their production for use as natural dyes in various fields.

Automated summary

This article examines the formation and secretion of diverse secondary metabolites, including pigments, by microscopic fungi. It focuses on the azaphilone compounds found in Monascus fungi, as well as in Talaromyces and Aspergillus cavernicola. The article also discusses the various potential applications of azaphilone pigments, such as antimicrobial, antitumor, anti-inflammatory, and hypolipidemic activities, and suggests strategies for improving production efficiency and synthesizing specific colors and derivatives. Overall, the review assesses the role and potential expansion of azaphilone pigments as natural dyes in various industries.