Optimized bioproduction and stability of violacein from Chromobacterium violaceum with preclinical gastroprotective activity
Bioresource Technology Reports, vol.34, 2026 (ESCI, Scopus)
- Publication Type: Article / Article
- Volume: 34
- Publication Date: 2026
- Doi Number: 10.1016/j.biteb.2026.102741
- Journal Name: Bioresource Technology Reports
- Journal Indexes: Emerging Sources Citation Index (ESCI), Scopus
- Keywords: Inflammation, Optimization, Production, Stability, Ulcer, Violacein
- Uşak University Affiliated: Yes
Abstract
Violacein (Vio) is a naturally occurring purple pigment produced by Chromobacterium violaceum, known for its broad spectrum of biological activities. This study optimized its production under eco-friendly, sustainable, and cost-effective conditions, resulting in a medium suitable production with a maximum yield of 2.18 g/L. Purified Vio demonstrated moderate stability, with less than 25% degradation after 45 days at neutral pH and temperatures below 37 °C. Functionally, this bacterial pigment exhibited possible potent gastroprotective and anti-inflammatory effects, inhibiting key gastric enzymes involved in ulcer formation, including peptic activity, pepsin, mucinase, and H+/K+-ATPase and β-glucuronidase (β-GluD) with IC₅₀ values ranging from 28 to 40 μg/mL. It also activated mucosal protective enzymes, including heme oxygenase (HO) and carbonic anhydrase (CA) with activation concentrations ranging from 15 to 24 μg/mL. This potential pharmacological effect of Vio is further supported by molecular docking studies, which demonstrate stable interactions between this compound and key target enzymes. These findings showed that Vio is a stable and natural gastroprotective agent with possible significant potential for applications in functional foods and therapeutic formulations.