THE IMPORTANCE OF LYOPHILIZATION IN PRESERVING SPECIES OF THE Aspergilus GENUS OF BIOTECHNOLOGICAL INTEREST

Abstract

Fungi are found in all ecosystems, are widely used and present economical relevance in biotechnology. Species of the genus Aspergillus, such as A. niger and A. oryzae, are widely used in biotechnological processes involving the production of antibiotics, antitumor, antifungal, and enzyme. The importance of fungi for humanity generates the need for their preservation, to ensure their availability for future use. Recent research highlights the importance of long-term preservation methods, especially freeze-drying in maintaining the characteristics of individuals. The aim of the present study is, based on literature data, to describe the importance of freeze-drying in the preservation of Aspergillus fungi of biotechnological interest. In this context, a bibliographic search in databases and indexers was performed and articles referring to the areas of mycology, fungal culture collection, preservation methods, freeze-drying and the importance of some species belonging to the genus Aspergillus were assessed and discussed. According to literature data, more detailed studies are needed to verify the effectiveness of this preservation technique in maintaining the phenotypic characteristics of Aspergillus species.