The Journal of Phytopharmacology 2026; 15(2):126-134 ;   DOI:10.31254/phyto.2026.15202

Research Article

Development and characterization of a fungal melanin hydrogel with potential in environmental bioremediation

Shalini Pandey¹ , Rahul Waghaye² , Pragya Shrivastava^3,4 , Megha Agrawal⁵ , Arunima Sur⁶

Shalini Pandey,Rahul Waghaye,Pragya Shrivastava,Megha Agrawal,Arunima Sur

1. Dr. C.V. Raman University, Kota, Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University Chhattisgarh, Bilaspur, Raipur- 493225, Chhattisgarh, India
2. Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University Chhattisgarh, Raipur-493225, Chhattisgarh, India
3. Research Scholar, Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University Chhattisgarh, Raipur- 493225, Chhattisgarh, India
4. Assistant Professor, Sanjay Rungta, Rungta College of Science and Technology, Bhilai, Durg- 490024, Chhattisgarh, India
5. Gurukul Mahila Mahavidyalaya Kalibadi Road Raipur- 492001, Chhattisgarh, India
6. Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University Chhattisgarh, Raipur- 493225, Chhattisgarh, India

*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.

Received: 16th January, 2026 / Accepted: 12th April, 2026 / Published : 17th April, 0226

Abstract

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Background: Heavy metal contamination of aquatic systems, particularly by copper (Cu²?) and nickel (Ni²?), poses a serious environmental and public health challenge due to their toxicity, persistence, non-biodegradable nature, and tendency to bioaccumulate. Although conventional remediation techniques are available, they are often expensive, energy-intensive, and environmentally unsustainable, necessitating the development of eco-friendly and cost-effective alternatives. Objective: The present study aimed to evaluate the potential of melanin-based hydrogels as efficient bio-derived adsorbents for the removal of Cu²? and Ni²? ions from aqueous solutions. Materials and Methods: Melanin was extracted from Thermothelomyces hinnuleus SP1 and incorporated into an agarose hydrogel matrix to improve structural stability and adsorption functionality. The swelling behaviour of the hydrogel was assessed to determine its water retention capacity. Adsorption experiments were conducted using 1 ppm solutions of Cu²? and Ni²? over a 36-hour period. Agarose-only hydrogels were used as controls. Metal ion uptake was monitored at regular time intervals to evaluate adsorption efficiency and kinetics. Results: The melanin-based hydrogel exhibited a high swelling ratio of 77%, indicating excellent water absorption and suitability for ion adsorption. Significantly higher metal ion adsorption was observed in melanin-incorporated hydrogels compared to controls. The hydrogel achieved 31.24% adsorption of Cu²? and 17.65% adsorption of Ni²?, whereas agarose-only hydrogels showed only 5.66% and 7.59% uptake, respectively. Time-dependent studies revealed faster adsorption kinetics, with maximum uptake occurring at approximately 13 h for Cu²? and 17 h for Ni²?. The enhanced adsorption performance was attributed to the presence of functional groups in melanin, such as carboxyl, hydroxyl, and amine groups, which facilitate strong metal ion chelation. Conclusion: Melanin-based hydrogels demonstrate significant potential as sustainable, eco-friendly, and cost-effective adsorbents for heavy metal remediation. Their superior adsorption efficiency, favorable swelling characteristics, and bio-derived origin highlight their applicability in wastewater treatment and environmental cleanup. This study underscores the promise of fungal melanin hydrogels as an effective alternative to conventional heavy metal adsorbents.    

Keywords

Thermothelomyces Hinnuleus, Melanin Hydrogel, Heavy Metal Adsorption, Copper and Nickel Remediation, Fungal Melanin, Bioremediation.

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