Production of ß-D-fructofuranosidases using biofilms of the filamentous fungus Aspergillus niger on innert support

• Grant number: 25/02795-8
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: June 01, 2025
• End date: December 31, 2025
• Field of knowledge: Biological Sciences - Microbiology - Applied Microbiology
• Principal Investigator: Luis Henrique Souza Guimaraes
• Grantee: Maria Eduarda Gonçalves Azarias
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Filosofia, Ciências e Letras de Ribeirão Preto (FFCLRP). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). Ribeirão Preto , SP, Brazil

Abstract

Invertases, also known as ß-D-fructofuranosidases (EC 3.2.1.26), are versatile enzymes that play a crucial role in various biological and industrial processes. Originating from different sources, including microorganisms, plants, and animals, these enzymes are widely studied due to their ability to catalyze the hydrolysis of sucrose into D-glucose and D-fructose, a process known as sucrose inversion, which is fundamental in various industries and applications. These enzymes have significant industrial relevance due to their application in the production of fructooligosaccharides (FOS), a group of prebiotic carbohydrates with various applications in the food, pharmaceutical, and health industries. A promising approach for the production of ß-D-fructofuranosidases is the use of fungal biofilms, which are microbial communities adheredto a surface and surrounded by an extracellular matrix. Fungal biofilms offer a favorableenvironment for microbial growth and enzyme production. This project aims to evaluate the production of ß-D-fructofuranosidases using biofilms of the filamentous fungus Aspergillus niger developed on inert support, analyzing the potential for optimization of industrial processes, considering factors such as efficiency, sustainability, and economic impact. From the results obtained, it aims to contribute to a deeper understanding of invertases, providing valuable insights for future research and practical applications.