Abstract
If you have been in the pharmaceutical industry for any length of time, you have probably been exposed to some concern in your facility regarding fungi, i.e., yeasts and molds. The New England Compounding Center (NECC), of Framingham, MA had a fungal contamination that led to a significant outbreak of meningitis in 2012. Sixty-four deaths and numerous non-fatal injuries occurred as a result of this contamination. This outbreak changed regulatory controls for compounding pharmacies and a heightened regulatory concern about fungal contamination in manufacturing facilities. (Anonymous, 2019)
Concerns about molds specifically have resulted in companies establishing zero-tolerance policies for mold in their facilities although mold is present in the air and may be carried on humans. It is generally recognized that mold should not be routinely present in aseptic areas.
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However, fungi play an important role in many areas of our lives. They impact the foods we eat and drink, provide important pharmaceutical agents, are used as a source of enzymes, as well as negatively affecting the structural integrity of buildings, can poison us, cause diseases, and are a significant risk for plant diseases that can threaten the security of food worldwide. (Idnurm and Meyer, 2014)
This article talks about some of the “positive” uses and potential uses of fungi. Dhande (2019) refers to the “mind blowing potential” of fungal biotechnology! Fungal investigation and research are at an all time high!
Food and Beverages
There are a variety of ways in which fungi are important in the food and beverage industry. Most microbiologists are aware of the common uses of fungi in the production of beer, wine, yogurts and cheese production. (Godani, 2019) There are many other fermentation products also produced. Some fungi are used directly as food, e.g., mushrooms, as they are high in protein and low in calories. (Dhande, 2019)
Enhancing Produce Quality
We commonly think that fungal infections are always damaging to crops. However, some fungal diseases can have a beneficial effect on product. Corn that is smutted (black powdery mold) and rust infected wheat both grow with more carbohydrate and phosphorous content than is present with non-infected plants. (Dhande, 2019)
Other fungi are effective as root nibblers. These fungi result in root fibers that increase the uptake of nutrients and water resulting in higher yields. (Dhande, 2019)
Bioherbicides
A bioherbicide is an agent for controlling weeds. It is biologically based.
Fungi are well-known for their specific and effective actions against weeds. Additionally, they have low levels of residues compared to synthetic pesticides. (Dhande, 2019)
Biofertilizers
Some fungi have symbiotic relationships with plants, via vesicular arbuscular mycorrhizae. The roots of higher plants are benefited by the fungi. This results in increased phosphate nutrition of the plant and protection of the roots by developing a mantle. (Dhande, 2019)
Biodegradation and Remediation
Fungi have significant roles in various types of biodegradation. White rot fungi degrades toxic pesticides, e.g., DDT, PCB, and Lindane. Other toxic chemicals can also be degraded, e.g., dioxin, cyanides, and azides. Petroleum can be degraded using several types of fungi in contaminated soils. (Dhande, 2019)
Cellulose can be degraded by fungi. This is useful in resolving agricultural residues. This degradation process can result in the production of bioenergy. (Dhande, 2019)
Even hazardous wastes can be remediated using fungi in contaminated soils. (Dhande, 2019)
Biomineralization
Myceliar beads of Penicillium have been shown to play a key role in the removal and recovery of heavy metals from wastewater. Some of the minerals removed include: Hg, Cu, Ni, Pb, and Cd. (Dhande, 2019)
Single-Cell Proteins (SCPs) and Fungal Metabolites
A single-cell protein (SCP) is a protein which has been derived from a culture of single-celled organisms, frequently used as a food supplement. Several species of fungi (both yeasts and molds) have been used as single-cell proteins. SCPs can be used to increase the nutritional value of foods, e.g., adding vitamins, amino acids, and lipids. (Godani, 2019 and Dhande, 2019)
Conclusion
This partial listing of some of the real and potential uses of fungi barely touch the surface of the possibilities. The research in fungi applications has the potential to totally change how we live in the world. The numerous types of fungi available and their capabilities will provide research opportunities for many years.
Literature Cited
Anonymous (2019) New England Compounding Center Meningitis Outbreak. Wikipedia. Downloaded from: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/New_England_Compounding_Center_meningitis_outbreak on March 27, 2019.
Dhande, R. (2019) Potential Applications of Fungi; A Biotechnological Approach. Street Directory. Downloaded from: https://www.streetdirectory.com/travel_guide/119227/science/potential_applications_of_fungi_a_biotechnological_aproach.html on March 27, 2019.
Godani, K. (2019) Top 6 Fungal Products Obtained from Fungal Biotechnology. Biology Discussion. Downloaded from: http://www.biologydiscussion.com/biotechnology/fungal-biotechnology/top-6-fungal-products-obtained-from-fungal-biotechnology/8530 on March 27, 2019.
Idnurm, A. and Meyer, V. (2014) Welcome to Fungal Biology and Biotechnology. Fungal Biology and Biotechnology 1:8-9. Downloaded from: https://fungalbiolbiotech.biomedcentral.com/track/pdf/10.1186/s40694-014-0008-5 on March 27, 2019.