Microalgae are proving to be pivotal players in environmental remediation, especially concerning heavy metal contamination, with recent research highlighting their potential to produce extracellular polymers (EPS). A study published on March 17, 2025, delves deeply...
The focus was on how mixotrophic cultivation—a method combining photosynthesis and organic carbon consumption—affects the yield and quality of EPS produced by three microalgae species: Chlorella vulgaris, Parachlorella kessleri, and Vischeria magna. It was found...
Resulting data illustrated the significant enhancement of EPS productivity under mixotrophic conditions, transforming both the composition and functional efficacy of these polymers. Higher levels of total and reducing sugars, proteins, and phenolic compounds were noted, whereas uronic acid content decreased. These findings suggest...
Rhamnose, xylose, mannose, glucose, and galactose were detected as part of the biochemical composition of EPS from mixotrophic conditions. Using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) and Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectroscopy (ICP-OES), researchers characterized...
The study's core conclusion indicated the superb sorption capacities of EPS from C. vulgaris, underlining its potential for Pb(II) ion removal compared to its counterparts. Specifically, the EPS yielded 369.7 mg g–1 at pH 5, showcasing its efficacy...
These developments highlight not just the enhanced biosorption potential of microalgae-derived EPS but also the intricacies of how growth conditions influence their biochemical properties. The findings not only substantiate the effectiveness of mixotrophy but also pave the way for biotechnological applications such as...
Future research must explore the environmental interactions of EPS with heavy metals comprehensively. Understanding how environmental variables influence their properties will be key to optimizing their utilization...
