Isolation and Antimicrobial Assessment of Crude Extract fromAspergillus sp. SO12 Isolated froma Marine Source

Abstract

The marine environment represents a rich source of microorganisms that havebeen increasingly explored for their bioactive potential. In this study, we report the isolationof Aspergillus sp. SO12 from a marine source and the subsequent extraction of its crudeextract. The bioactive potential of this extract was evaluated through antibacterial assaysagainst various bacterial strains and antifungal assessments against Candida albicans andAspergillus niger. The isolated strain, Aspergillus sp. SO12, was obtained froma marinesediment sample. Molecular characterization confirmed its identity as a member of theAspergillus genus, and subsequent cultivation allowed for the production of a crude extract. The extract was obtained using organic solvent. Antibacterial activity of the crude extract wasassessed against a panel of clinically relevant bacterial strains, including Gram-positive(Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus subtilis) and Gram-negative (Escherichia coli andPseudomonas aeruginosa) bacteria. The extract demonstrated significant antibacterial activity, with notable inhibition zones and minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs), suggesting thepresence of bioactive compounds with potential therapeutic value against these pathogens. Furthermore, the antifungal potential of the crude extract was evaluated against Candidaalbicans, a common pathogenic yeast, and Aspergillus niger, a close relative to the producingfungus. The extract displayed potent antifungal activity against both Candida albicans andAspergillus niger, indicating its capacity to combat fungal infections. In summary, Aspergillus sp. SO12, isolated from a marine source, produces a crude extract withremarkable antibacterial and antifungal properties. The study underscores the potential ofmarine-derived microorganisms in yielding bioactive compounds with applications inantimicrobial drug development and biotechnology. This research contributes toourunderstanding of the bioactive potential of marine fungi and suggests promising avenues forfuture investigations into novel antimicrobial agents.