Optimization of pullulan production by Aureobasidium pullulans using semi-solid-state fermentation and artificial neural networks: Characterization and antibacterial activity of pullulan impregnated with Ag-TiO2 nanocomposite

This study presents a novel and efficient approach for pullulan production using artificial neural networks (ANNs) to optimize semi-solid-state fermentation (S-SSF) on faba bean biomass (FBB). This method achieved a record-breaking pullulan yield of 36.81 mg/g within 10.82 days, significantly exceeding previous results. Furthermore, the study goes beyond yield optimization by characterizing the purified pullulan, revealing its unique properties including thermal stability, amorphous structure, and antioxidant activity. Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy confirmed its chemical composition and distinct morphology. This research introduces a groundbreaking combination of ANNs and comprehensive characterization, paving the way for sustainable and cost-effective pullulan production on FBB under S-SSF conditions. Additionally, the study demonstrates the successful integration of pullulan with Ag@TiO2 nanoparticles during synthesis using Fusarium oxysporum. This novel approach significantly enhances the stability and efficacy of the nanoparticles by modifying their surface properties, leading to remarkably improved antibacterial activity against various human pathogens. These findings showcase the low-cost production medium, and extensive potential of pullulan not only for its intrinsic properties but also for its ability to significantly improve the performance of nanomaterials. This breakthrough opens doors to diverse applications in various fields.