Fungal pigments: An overview

Abstract

Since ages, colors have been an integral part of humankind whether it belongs to foodstuff, clothing, or day-to-day living. Long back in history, various pigments are used by all the races. Earlier the colors that were in use were natural in origin, but due to rise in demand mankind shifted to manufacturing of synthetic colors. With the passage of time, it has been now proved that these synthetic colors have many side effects like being immunosuppressive, carcinogenic. Due to deleterious health effects, the need for some alternative has emerged that can be used as a color. Plants, insects, and other microorganisms have started taken place of synthetic colors. As there are many factors that limit the usage of plants and insects, research turned toward the microorganism. There are many fungi whose pigments are now considered as safe and economical. Fungi like Aspergillus, Fusarium, Penicillum, Monascus, Trichoderma, and Laetiporus are reported to produce quinones, anthraquinones, Rubropuntamine, Rubropuntatin, Ankaflavin, Monascin, β-carotene, and many other pigments responsible for various colors, viz. red, purple, yellow, brown, orange, and green. In addition to providing natural colors, these pigments possess many therapeutic applications like immune modulators, anticancer, antioxidant, antiproliferative. These pigments are produced as secondary metabolites by utilizing one of the pathways: polyketide, mevalonate, and shikimate pathways. The pigments are fermentative products so are affected by temperature, pH, carbon source, aeration, and type of fermentation (solid or submerged). There are many agencies that approve the usage of pigments for humankind. Fungi can work as cell factories for color production that is economical and human friendly.