Work

From Sea to Science: Unveiling the Diverse Biotechnological Applications of Marine Endophytic Bacillus aerius

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Marine endophytic bacteria are a promising source of bioactive compounds with diverse applications. This study investigated the multifunctional properties of Bacillus aerius PMRU2.8, isolated from the marine red alga Gracilaria sp. collected from the coastal region of Tamil Nadu, India. The bacterium demonstrated significant antimicrobial activity against multiple human pathogens, with its ethyl acetate extract containing bioactive compounds, including indoles and ketones. Molecular docking analysis revealed potential binding mechanisms of the compounds to bacterial proteins. Additionally, B. aerius efficiently synthesized silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) with enhanced antimicrobial efficacy compared with the crude extract. The bacterium also exhibited remarkable bioremediation capability, decolorizing up to 92.5% of the Direct Blue 6 azo dye within 48 h. Cytotoxicity assays confirmed the potential therapeutic applications of both the extract and the biosynthesized AgNPs. These findings highlight B. aerius as a valuable resource for pharmaceutical development, nanobiotechnology, and environmental remediation.

Source: Nature Environment and Pollution Technology

DOI: 10.46488/nept.2026.v25i01.b4321

Authors: Sathyananth M., Varna Vijayan, Leon Stephan Raj T.

Institutions: Manonmaniam Sundaranar University, St. Xavier's College (Autonomous), St. Xavier's College, St Xavier’s College

Language: English

Topic: Microbial Natural Products and Biosynthesis

Subfield: Pharmacology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDGs: Clean water and sanitation, Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $575