In vitro evaluation of antimicrobial, antitumor, and anti-SARS-cov-2 properties of cellulase enzyme produced by Aspergillus niger
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Background Microbial enzymes, particularly cellulases, are widely used in industrial processes; however, their therapeutic potential remains underexplored. This study investigates the antibacterial, antitumor, and antiviral properties of a cellulase enzyme produced by Aspergillus niger using coir waste as a substrate. Methods Cellulase production was carried out via solid-state fermentation. Antimicrobial activity was evaluated against Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC 29737), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (ATCC 25619), and MRSA. The synergistic antibiofilm effect of cellulase with azithromycin was assessed. Cytotoxicity against MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells was analyzed using MTT assay, DPPH radical scavenging activity, caspase-3 activation, and cytokine profiling (TNF-α, IL-6, IL-10). Antiviral activity against SARS-CoV-2 was also examined. Results The produced cellulase exhibited an activity of 3.7 U/mL. No direct bactericidal effect was observed, but a significant synergistic reduction in biofilm biomass was noted with azithromycin. The enzyme reduced cancer cell viability, increased antioxidant (DPPH) activity, elevated caspase-3 levels, and modulated cytokine expression by decreasing TNF-α and IL-6 while increasing IL-10. Notably, the enzyme formulation demonstrated strong antiviral activity against SARS-CoV-2. Conclusion Cellulase derived from A. niger presents significant biological potential, including antibiofilm, anticancer, immunomodulatory, and antiviral properties. These findings suggest promising applications of microbial cellulase in therapeutic development.
Authors: Mahmoud S. Abdelnabi, Nouran H. Assar, Amal S. Shahat, Omnia Kutkat, Rehab Bahy
Language: English
Subfield: Biotechnology
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $2,700
OpenAlex ID: W4411259031