Exploiting the antioxidant and biotechnological potential of marine algae microbiota

Abstract

This dissertation explores the biotechnological potential of enzymes derived from marine algae-associated microbiomes. Two studies form the core of the work.

The first, on Fucus vesiculosus, revealed that Bacteroidota, although initially low in abundance, plays a key role in degrading brown algal cell walls, especially the sulfated polysaccharide fucoidan. Two novel α-L-fucosidases (FUJM18 and FUJM20) were identified, cloned, and shown to be highly active and thermostable, making them promising candidates for industrial biomass processing.

The second study focused on the Tetraselmis chui microbiome, identifying antioxidant-related genes. Four novel enzymes—two superoxide dismutases (TcJM_SOD2, TcIK_SOD3) and two catalases (TcJM_CAT2, TcIK_CAT3)—were characterized. These enzymes demonstrated high activity at nanogram concentrations and were non-toxic, suggesting potential for healthcare and cosmetic applications.

In total, six novel enzymes were implemented, highlighting the value of algae microbiomes as sources for sustainable, high-performance biocatalysts.