Microbial Biosurfactants:  A review of their Classification and Multidimensional Applications

Abstract

Biosurfactants are considered as significant commercial secondary metabolites produced by various microorganisms.  They contain hydrophilic as well as hydrophobic parts. These surfactants include glycolipids, lipopeptides and phospholipids, polymeric and particulate surfactants. Biosurfactants are considered better than synthetic surfactants due to their: Eco-friendly nature, low toxicity, high biodegradability and stability. Biosurfactants are broadly used in various industrial sectors including pharmaceuticals, agriculture textiles, medicine, hydrocarbon degradation, oil recovery, food industry and cosmetics. Biosurfactants exhibit antibiofilm, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, anticancerous activities. Additionally, biosurfactants can be applied as biofertilizers and biopesticides as well. The current review highlights biosurfactants, their classification and potential applications in medical, environmental, agricultural and industrial fields.