Production of Antagonistic Compounds by Bacillus sp. with Antifungal Activity against Heritage Contaminating Fungi

Abstract

Abstract: In recent years, the population has become acutely aware of the need to conserve the world’s resources. The study of new compounds produced by natural means is important in the search for alternative green solutions that act against biodeteriogenic fungi, which promote biodeterioration of built cultural heritage sites. The present paper reports new solutions, derived from Bacillus sp. CCLBH 1053 cultures, to produce lipopeptides (LPP) that can act as green biocides to promote the safeguarding of stone artwork. In the stationary phases of bacteria growth, peptone supplementation and sub-lethal heat activation improve the second cycle of sporulation, greatly enhancing LPP production. The bioactive compounds produced by Bacillus cultures suppress biodeteriogenic fungi growth on stone materials, and, hence, provide an important contribution to the development of new biocides for cultural heritage rehabilitation.