From Past to Present: Biotechnology in Mexico Using Algae and Fungi

Abstract

Algae and fungi share a rich history in the fields of basic and applied natural science. In biotechnology, in particular, algae and fungi are of paramount importance, due to the production and development of valuable compounds, such as pharmaceuticals, enzymes, and biofuels. They are also used in waste fermentation, biocontrol of pathogens, and food processing and improvement, among other fields. Although a substantial number of different microorganisms are utilized for these purposes, there lies tremendous potential in uncharacterized microbial species. For this reason, biodiversity hotspots offer a wealth of potential in the discovery of new products and processing strategies based on these microorganisms. This review presents an overview of the use of algae and fungi in pre-Hispanic times/modern-day Mexico for the benefits of mankind. One of our objectives is to raise awareness about the potential of developing research projects for identification and biotechnological utilization of algae and fungi in a megadiverse country, such as Mexico.

Algae-Based Biopolymers for Batteries and Biofuel Applications in Comparison with Bacterial Biopolymers—A Review

“…For bio-methane, the anaerobic digestion of algae can be used [ 171 ], while biodiesel is derived from oils or lipids produced by microalgae [ 172 ]. Bio-hydrogen can be produced by green algae under anaerobic conditions [ 173 ], while biogas results from the anaerobic digestion of microalgae [ 174 ]. For detailed overviews, please see reviews [ 175 , 176 , 177 ].…”

Huitlacoche (Ustilago maydis), an Iconic Mexican Fungal Resource: Biocultural Importance, Nutritional Content, Bioactive Compounds, and Potential Biotechnological Applications

“…Fungi comprise the second-largest group of living organisms on Earth, and some of them are edible and have been consumed as food by humans since ancestral times [1,2]. In this context, due to their nutritive value and potential health benefits, the international trade of edible fungi has grown rapidly in both local and international markets in recent years [3,4].…”

“…Due to the unequal economic distribution among human societies, one of the most critical problems to be solved is feeding a constantly growing population, where edible fungus, including huitlacoche, could play an important role in food security due to its nutritional value and nutraceutical potential [1,3]. On the other hand, agriculture in Mexico is marginal and collapsing [41]; thus, one way to encourage the younger generations in the countryside is to provide jobs and sources of income by cultivating huitlacoche [42], which involves not only economic benefits but also nutritional, health, social, and cultural aspects [2]. The present review focuses on the biocultural importance, nutritional content, and phytochemical profile of huitlacoche and its related biological properties as a strategy to contribute to global food security through food diversification; moreover, the biotechnological uses of huitlacoche and its relevance in food security and sustainable development are also discussed, with the aim of contributing to the use, propagation, revalorization, and conservation of this valuable fungal resource.…”