Co-culture of microalgae and bacteria for the production of bioactive compounds

Abstract The co-culture of microalgae and bacteria has emerged as an effective strategy for the production of bioactive compounds with antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory activities, applicable to various industrial sectors. This exciting area of research has attracted growing interest due to its versatility and sustainable potential. The ecological interactions between microalgae and bacteria, mediated by the exchange of nutrients and chemical signals, promote the synthesis of novel metabolites or enhance the yield of already known compounds. Environmental factors, such as pH, temperature, light intensity, and cell density, play a crucial role in the efficiency of this process, directly influencing the production of bioactives. This article highlights the biotechnological potential of these co-cultures, exploring practical applications in the pharmaceutical, food, cosmetic, and environmental remediation industries. In particular, it presents original findings and perspectives on species selection and metabolic efficiency in co-culture systems, contributing new insights to the field. Additionally, it discusses the technical challenges associated with large-scale implementation, such as the control of cultivation conditions and the optimization of production systems, like automated photobioreactors. With the development of new technologies and ongoing research, the co-culture of microalgae and bacteria emerges as a sustainable and innovative solution for producing high-value-added bioactive compounds.