Structural properties and biotechnological applications of cyanobacterial phycobiliproteins

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Abstract

Cyanobacteria are a promising and sustainable source of numerous bioactive compounds, including phycobiliproteins (PBPs). PBPs are a group of water-soluble pigments that serve as a critical component in the accessory light-harvesting system in cyanobacteria. PBPs are composed of chromophore-binding proteins such as phycocyanin, phycoerythrin, and allophycocyanin, which exhibit distinctive structural and functional properties. PBPs aggregate into larger structures called phycobilisomes, located on the thylakoid membrane of cyanobacteria, consisting of rod and core subunits. PBPs scavenge free radicals and reduce oxidative stress, which plays a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of numerous chronic diseases such as cancer, diabetes, cardiovascular disorders, and neurodegenerative conditions. Due to their pharmacological properties, outstanding therapeutic value, and ecological significance, they have garnered considerable scientific interest in recent years. In this review, we provide an in-depth examination of the structural attributes of PBPs and explore their promising biotechnological applications, offering insights into current developments, challenges, and future directions for utilizing PBPs in scientific and industrial fields.

Keywords

bioactive compounds / cyanobacteria / microalgae / phycocyanin / phycoerythrin

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