Proceedings e report - Firenze University Press

4. Conclusions
DEGRADATION OF MELANIN AND BIOCIDES BY LIGNINOLYTIC FUNGI
These procedures look very promising, but they need to be optimized and the integrity (or possible
damage) of paper samples after the procedure should be carefully evaluated. After scientifically
verifying that the melanin degradation procedure is not causing damage to the paper, and that the
procedure fulfils paper conservator’s requirements, it will be introduced in conservation of invaluable
heritage.
Lindane and PCB showed no significant influence on fungal growth, while the growth rate in the
presence of PCP was unaffected only in the case of T. versicolor. Among tested fungi, P. ostreatus
most efficiently degraded PCB and lindane. Lindane was degraded in minor extent by this white-rot
fungs most likely because of the fact that its does not have the aromatic character. Surprisingly,
despite the fact that PCP had been used as a broad spectrum fungicide in many wood preservatives, it
has been efficiently degraded by T. versicolor. Our results clearly show the promising potential of
white rot fungi in bioremediation of organochlorine biocides and melanin in the field of conservation.
However, the procedures will require adequate equipment for such restoration treatments.
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