Cyanobacterial biotechnology: An opportunity for sustainable industrial production

In this communication, a comprehensive commentary on contribution of cyanobacteria and microalgae in well being of humans and environment has been postulated. In the recent years cyanobacteria and micro-algae have gained much more attention because of their valuable biotechnological applications. These valuable bio-agents are potential source of various compounds such as exopolysaccharides, lipids, proteins, vitamins, sterols, enzymes, pharmaceuticals and other valuable life supporting chemicals. Secondary metabolites derived from cyanobacteria and micro-algae have been reported to be beneficial as antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, anticancer, anti-malarial and immunosuppressive properties and can open new doors to develop more effective drugs in agriculture, industrial and human welfare. Some cyanobacteria and micro-algae can accumulate polyhydroxyalkanoates intracellularly; having similar properties to polyethylene and polypropylene. These biodegradable plastics can be alternative to oil-derived thermoplastics incoming future. An inclusive knowledge on the diversity, physiology and inherent genome organisation of cyanobacteria and their beneficial genetic manipulations may be helpful to provide better opportunity for sustainable industrial products and environmental development. This article remarks meaningful information about the possible uses of cyanobacteria and micro-algae in industry sector and also expresses an outlook on the challenges and future prospects of cyanobacteria and micro-algal biotechnology.