The Biotechnology Laboratory of the Research Group on Chemistry Applied to Technology (GP-QAT) at the University of the State of Amazonas (UEA) is dedicated to the study and biotechnological utilization of microorganisms, with particular emphasis on filamentous fungi and yeasts of Amazonian origin. The laboratory’s primary objective is to isolate, characterize, and explore the metabolic potential of these microorganisms for the production of industrially valuable molecules, including antibiotics, antioxidants, and, particularly, high-value enzymes.

The laboratory conducts activities ranging from the collection of environmental samples—including soil, sediments, leaves, and decomposing wood—to the cultivation and morphological and molecular identification of fungi using both classical and advanced techniques in microbiology and molecular biology. These isolates are subsequently used in studies aimed at optimizing cultivation conditions, evaluating enzyme production—including amylases, lipases, cellulases, laccases, and proteases—and conducting bioactivity assays to identify natural compounds with antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties.

In addition to the prospecting and production of biomolecules, the Biotechnology Laboratory is actively involved in the design and development of natural cosmetic products using extracts and enzymes of microbial and plant origin. This research area combines sustainability and technological innovation by exploring Amazonian biodiversity in an ethical and responsible manner. Products under investigation include creams, soaps, emulsions, and lotions with moisturizing, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties, formulated using bioactive compounds obtained from Amazonian microorganisms.

The laboratory is equipped with infrastructure for microbial cultivation, metabolite extraction, and purification, including laminar flow cabinets, incubators, autoclaves, centrifuges, optical microscopes, and spectrophotometers. It also has access to equipment shared with the Amazonas Chemical Analysis Center (CAQQAT/UEA) for the physicochemical and spectroscopic characterization of the compounds produced.

Through this integration of microbial biotechnology and applied chemistry, the GP-QAT Biotechnology Laboratory has established itself as an important center for research, development, and innovation in the Amazon, promoting the valorization of regional biodiversity and contributing to the advancement of sustainable bioproducts and cosmetics supported by a strong scientific and technological foundation.