Khaled B. Al-Monofy, Mahmoud H. Farghali, Lamiaa A. Al-Madboly, Amal M. Abo Kamer, Ahmed Abdelaziz
Many research teams have prioritized the investigation of the biotechnological production of carotenoids in the last few decades due to their multipurpose application. In this review, the bioproduction of the fundamental bacterial carotenoids, including lycopene, β-carotene, β-cryptoxanthin, zeaxanthin, canthaxanthin, and astaxanthin, is discussed, along with detailed information on their biosynthesis, laboratory screening, physiochemical requirements, genetic engineering-based production development, and fermentation techniques. As well, this review emphasizes that the bacterial carotenoids are innovative therapeutic avenues with diverse biological applications, from food additives to anticancer agents. Moreover, the review discusses the limitations of the application of these carotenoids and the future perspectives. Ultimately, the review highlights the bacteria as powerful cell factories, potentially facilitating the commercial production of carotenoids in the future.