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Cocultivation of White-Rot Fungi and Microalgae in the Presence of Nanocellulose

Summary

This research explored how certain fungi and algae work together when grown in the presence of nanocellulose, a material derived from plant cells. The study found that these organisms can not only survive together but can actually enhance the production of important enzymes that break down plant material. This has several practical implications for everyday life: • Could lead to more efficient and environmentally friendly biofuel production • May help develop new ways to break down plant waste materials • Shows potential for creating sustainable materials using living organisms • Could help reduce dependence on fossil fuels through bio-based alternatives • Demonstrates new possibilities for 3D printing with living organisms

Background

In nature, mutualistic interactions between fungi and algae are well documented, particularly for Ascomycete fungi in lichens. Wood-decaying Basidiomycetes have been found to harbor different algae species on their fruiting bodies. These interactions could lead to exchanges of nitrogen, oxygen, sugars, minerals and CO2 between the organisms. Previous studies have shown that fungi and algae can form mutualistic symbiosis in laboratory conditions, though sometimes these interactions can become antagonistic.

Objective

To investigate the growth behavior and enzymatic activity of two white-rot fungi (Trametes versicolor and Trametes pubescens) and two freshwater algae (Chlorella vulgaris and Scenedesmus vacuolatus) when cocultured in the presence of TEMPO oxidized cellulose nanofibrils (CNF) and cellulose nanocrystals (CNC). The study aimed to assess their interactions in liquid, agar medium, and 3D-printed nanocellulose hydrogels.

Results

Cocultures grew faster under nutrient-rich conditions compared to nutrient-depleted conditions. Higher endoglucanase and laccase activities were observed in liquid cocultures of T. versicolor and S. vacuolatus with cellulose compared to single cultures. Similar results were found for T. pubescens and C. vulgaris cocultures, though laccase production decreased over time. Both fungi and algae successfully grew in 3D-printed cellulose hydrogels.

Conclusion

The study demonstrated that cellulase enzyme production could be enhanced by cocultivating white-rot fungi with freshwater algae under nutrient-rich conditions with TEMPO-CNF and CNC. The successful growth of both organisms in printed cellulose hydrogels shows potential for biotechnological applications including biofuel production and bio-based fuel cell components.
  • Published in:Microbiology Spectrum,
  • Study Type:Laboratory Research,
  • Source: 10.1128/spectrum.03041-22
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