Abstract

THE HIDDEN WORLD OF MARINE MELANIN PRODUCERS: A REVIEW OF RECENT ADVANCES

Vishal C. Surak, Vaishali Kotiya, Ankita Dohare, Jaynesh K. Ambechada*

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Abstract

Melanin, a high-molecular-weight biopolymer, plays a crucial role in biological systems due to its exceptional photoprotective, antioxidative and metal-binding properties. While traditionally sourced from fungi, plants, and mammals, marine-derived melanin has garnered significant attention due to its unique structural and functional characteristics. Marine bacteria, particularly extremophiles, have emerged as promising and sustainable sources of melanin, offering enhanced stability, tunable physicochemical properties, and eco-friendly biosynthesis pathways. This review explores the biosynthetic mechanisms of marine bacterial melanin, focusing on enzymatic pathways such as tyrosinase-mediated and polyketide synthase (PKS)- dependent processes. Furthermore, we highlight the diverse applications of melanin in biomedicine, environmental remediation, and advanced materials, with special emphasis on its potential in electronics and glass technology. The integration of melanin in bioelectronics, nanomaterials, and optical coatings underscores its versatility beyond conventional applications. Finally, we discuss current challenges and future prospects in scaling up microbial melanin production for industrial and commercial applications.

Keywords: Marine bacterial melanin, biopolymer, tyrosinase, polyketide synthase, bioelectronics, bioremediation, nanomaterials, sustainable biotechnology.