Insight into compatible solutes from halophiles: Exploring significant applications in biotechnology

Abstract

Halophiles accumulate a restricted range of highly soluble low molecular weight molecules termed compatible solutes, which helps them to cope up with environments of elevated osmolarity. In addition to their stabilizing effects, compatible solute contributes significantly in different biotechnological applications. These include stabilization of biomolecules, stress-protective and therapeutic agents, in cosmeceuticals and pharmaceuticals, as a cryoprotectant of microorganisms, and increasing osmotolerance in non-halotolerant organisms by transforming genes for their synthesis. High solubility and low molecular weight of osmolytes make them potential candidates for bioprocessing and as an attractive proposition toward commercialization. We summarize here the current state of knowledge and applications of compatible solutes in biotechnology.