Tremellomycete yeasts are a diverse group of microorganisms with significant biotechnological potential. In this study, we screened environmental strains for their ability to biosynthesize mycosporines, molecules renowned for their photoprotective and antioxidant properties. Chemical analyses identified the specific mycosporines produced, while genetic investigations elucidated the composition and regulation of the corresponding biosynthetic gene cluster. Our findings underscore the potential of these yeasts to produce sustainable, bioactive compounds capable of replacing conventional petrochemicals, such as those found in chemical and mineral sunscreens. This work establishes yeasts as a valuable reservoir for next-generation compounds that can advance the bioeconomy.
Nature of Life Seminar: Dr. Renata Castiglioni Pascon 14 October 2025 15:30 - 17:15
About Nature of Life Seminar: Dr. Renata Castiglioni Pascon
Starting date
- 14 October 2025
Time
- 15:30 - 17:15
Organised by
- A-LIFE, Ecology & Evolution/Systems Ecology
Language
- English
About our speaker:
Renata Castiglioni Pascon holds a Bachelor degree in Biological Sciences from UNESP - Botucatu (1990) in Brazil, followed by a Master of Science (1994) and a Doctor of Philosophy (1998) in Genetics and Plant Breeding from ESALQ - University of São Paulo, Brazil. Her doctoral studies included a research period at the University of Idaho, USA, where she later completed postdoctoral work. She has also conducted postdoctoral research in medical mycology at the University of São Paulo, Brazil and Duke University Medical Center, North Caroline (USA). Her professional career includes tenure as a researcher at Alellyx Applied Genomics, Eurofarma Laboratories, and Tortuga Animal Health and Nutrition in Brazil, where her work was concentrated on Biotechnology and Applied Microbiology. She is currently an Associate Professor at the Federal University of São Paulo, Campus Diadema in Brazil. Her primary areas of expertise are Genetics, with a specific focus on Medical Mycology, Microbial Genetics and Molecular Biology, Applied Microbiology and Yeast Biotechnology.
