Determinação da atividade biológica de algas marinhas da costa maranhense com aplicação ao manejo de fungos micotoxigênicos provenientes de ostras cultivadas no estado

Abstract

The search for natural bioactive molecules in macroalgae has gained global prominence, driven by the need to improve production processes in various sectors through non-synthetic alternatives, as well as the growing demand for sustainable solutions to various problems. The presence of fungal pathogens with potential risks to human health represents a growing challenge in the production of aquatic organisms. One example is oyster farming, a promising sector in Brazil, which already has records of microbiological contamination. Therefore, this research aims to bioprospect marine macroalgae present on the coast of Maranhão and determine the biological activity of selected species on the management of fungi isolated from cultivated oysters. To this end, tests were carried out using hydroalcoholic extracts from macroalgae collected in three regions of the Maranhão coast, against species of the fungal genera Aspergillus, Fusarium, and Penicillium, followed by phytochemical screening for the identification of the active compounds of the macroalgae. In parallel, a systematic literature review was conducted on the antifungal potential of marine macroalgae, highlighting the absence of this type of study in Brazil. Furthermore, educational material on the subject was developed. The resultsindicate promising activity, as morphological and physiological aspects were significantly reduced by the extracts, promoting varied responses among macroalgae and fungal species. Furthermore, chemical groups previously associated with antimicrobial potential were identified in the extracts. Thus, this work not only contributes to the prospecting of biomolecules applicable to microbiological control but also addresses a relevant gap in the Brazilian context, where products derived from marine macroalgae represent promising alternatives to enhance the productivity and safety of cultivated organisms.