Biotechnological potential of Monascus: Biological aspects, metabolites of interest, and opportunities for new products

Author(s)

Arruda, Gabriel Leda ; Reis, Willian S. M. ; Raymundo, Maria Teresa F. R. ; Shibukawa, Vinicius P. ; Cruz-Santos, Monica M. ; Silos, Nayeli Ortiz ; Prado, Carina A. ; Marcelino, Paulo R. F. ; da Silva, Silvio S. ; Santos, Julio C.

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: MICROBIOLOGICAL RESEARCH; v. 297, p. 16-pg., 2025-08-01.

Abstract

The need to develop more sustainable products and processes qualifies microbial platforms for obtaining products as a highlighted interesting solution. In this context, filamentous fungi that produce biopigments have been emphasized, especially in the development of research, products and industrial applications. Among the different species, the genus Monascus stands out, either because of its popular use in traditional communities or even because of its versatile growth capacity. Indeed, it is able to metabolize different substrates, including agroindustrial wastes and by-products, as well as allowing different cultivation approaches, such as solid-state and submerged fermentation, for the production of biopigments. Its best-known products include biopigments (yellow, orange and red) and diverse secondary metabolites which have proven biological properties and have great potential in food, pharmaceutical and cosmetic formulations. This review presents the biotechnological, biochemical, and innovation potential of fungi from the genus Monascus, encompassing their historical importance, recent studies on cultivation and production of biopigments, beside the potential of this emerging platform for producing microbial biopigments. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 23/18061-8 - Valorization of the agricultural residue banana pseudostem for the production of fungal biopigments
• Grantee: Maria Teresa Ferreira Ramos Raymundo
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Doctorate (Direct)