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Polysaccharide Stalks in <i>Didymosphenia geminata</i> Diatom: Real World Applications and Strategies to Combat Its Spread
oleh: Esther Somanader, Roshini Sreenivas, Golnoosh Siavash, Nicole Rodriguez, Tingxiao Gao, Hermann Ehrlich, M. Azizur Rahman
Format: | Article |
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Diterbitkan: | MDPI AG 2022-01-01 |
Deskripsi
<i>Didymosphenia geminata</i> is a species of freshwater diatom that is known as invasive and is propagating quickly around the world. While invasive species are generally considered a nuisance, this paper attempts to find useful applications for <i>D. geminata</i> in the biomedical field and wastewater remediation. Here, we highlight the polysaccharide-based stalks of <i>D. geminata</i> that enable versatile potential applications and uses as a biopolymer, in drug delivery and wound healing, and as biocompatible scaffolding in cell adhesion and proliferation. Furthermore, this review focuses on how the polysaccharide nature of stalks and their metal-adsorption capacity allows them to have excellent wastewater remediation potential. This work also aims to assess the economic impact of <i>D. geminata,</i> as an invasive species<i>,</i> on its immediate environment. Potential government measures and legislation are recommended to prevent the spread of <i>D. geminata</i>, emphasizing the importance of education and collaboration between stakeholders.