Glycerol as a substrate for actinobacteria of biotechnological interest: Advantages and perspectives in circular economy systems

Abstract

Actinobacteria represent a ubiquitous group of microorganisms widely distributed in ecosystems. They have diverse physiological and metabolic properties, including the production of extracellular enzymes and a variety of secondary bioactive metabolites, such as antibiotics, immunosuppressants, and other compounds of industrial interest. Therefore, actinobacteria have been used for biotechnological purposes for more than three decades. The development of a biotechnological process requires the evaluation of its cost/benefit ratio, including the search for economic and efficient substrates for microorganisms development. Biodiesel is a clean, renewable, quality and economically viable source of energy, which also contributes to the conservation of the environment. Crude glycerol is the main by-product of biodiesel production and has many properties, so it has a commercial value that can be used to finance the biofuel production process. Actinobacteria can use glycerol as a source of carbon and energy, either pure o crude. A circular economy system aims to eliminate waste and pollution, keep products and materials in use, and regenerate natural systems. Although these principles are not yet met, some approaches are being made in this direction; the transformation of crude glycerol by actinobacteria is a process with great potential to be scaled on an industrial level. This review discusses the reports on glycerol as a promising source of carbon and energy for obtaining biomass and high-added value products by actinobacteria. Also, the factors influencing the biomass and secondary metabolites production in bioreactors are analyzed, and the tools available to overcome those that generate the main problems are discussed.