Production of violacein biopigment from Janthinobacterium lividum using agro-industrial waste for application in dyeing textile fibers

• Grant number: 24/23539-7
• Support Opportunities: Research Grants - Innovative Research in Small Business - PIPE
• Start date: February 01, 2025
• End date: January 31, 2027
• Field of knowledge: Biological Sciences - Microbiology - Applied Microbiology
• Principal Investigator: Ailton Pereira
• Grantee: Ailton Pereira
• Pesquisadores principais: Alexandra Daniela Barrios Eguiluz ; Julia Barreto Machado
• Associated research grant: 24/10344-3 - Production of violacein biopigment from Janthinobacterium lividum using agro-industrial waste for application in dyeing textile fibers, AP.PIPE
• Associated scholarship(s): 25/04741-2 - Production of violacein biopigment from Janthinobacterium lividum using agro-industrial waste for application indyeing textile fibers, BP.PIPE

Abstract

The production and extraction of biopigments has become increasingly attractive due to the search for sustainable and biodegradable alternatives in the textile industry. Violacein, a violet biopigment, stands out for its antioxidant, antimicrobial and anticancer properties, making it a promising raw material for various industrial applications. This project aims to optimize the production of violacein by the bacterium Janthinobacterium lividum, using agro-industrial waste as a substrate, which can make the process more sustainable, economically viable and with a higher yield of product per liter. The main objective of the project is to optimize the production of violacein by J. lividum on a pilot scale, maintaining or increasing the estimated production of 5 to 10 g/L, in 10 L and 100 L bioreactors. In addition, we seek to develop methods efficient extraction methods to ensure maximum use and quality of the biopigment for use in dyeing textile fibers. The project will involve the selection and optimization of cultivation conditions, including culture medium, pH, temperature and fermentation time, aiming to obtain the highest violacein production. To carry out the project, cultivation equipment in bioreactors, biopigment analysis and characterization instruments, as well as inputs and reagents for laboratory tests will be required. The team will have qualified professionals in bioprocesses and biotechnology to conduct research and data analysis. Kinetics and efficiency studies will be carried out to understand and optimize the violacein production and extraction process. It is expected to obtain a significantly greater production of violacein using agro-industrial waste as a substrate, making the process more sustainable and economically viable on a pilot scale. Optimizing biopigment production and extraction will guarantee its high quality for industrial use in textile fibers. The commercial application of violacein in the textile sector, after validation of the MVP (Minimum Viable Product) with partner companies and entry into the market, could offer a sustainable and safe alternative. Furthermore, it will provide a reduction in costs linked to the dyeing process, saving water, energy, auxiliary chemicals and natural gas, resulting in lower CO2 emissions. These benefits will contribute to preserving the environment, reducing environmental impacts and promoting competitiveness in the textile sector. The company's sustainable production of violacein will open up opportunities for new products and formulations with antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. Offering natural and biodegradable dyes in textiles can attract a new segment of customers concerned about sustainability and health. Furthermore, leadership in the development of biotechnological technologies for the production of violacein can position the company as a reference in the market, increasing its competitiveness and contributing to the growth of the biopigments and natural products sector. (AU)