Fungi pose a significant threat to cultural heritage, causing deterioration of historical artifacts, manuscripts, paintings, and architectural structures. Their ability to colonize various materials leads to discoloration, structural degradation, and biochemical alterations, compromising the integrity of priceless objects. Traditional conservation methods, such as chemical fungicides and controlled environmental conditions, have limitations due to toxicity, cost, and resistance development. Biotechnological advancements, including antifungal proteins and peptides, offer promising alternatives by targeting fungal growth while maintaining material integrity. However, challenges remain, including stability, efficacy, and environmental compatibility. A multidisciplinary approach, integrating molecular biology, material science, and conservation techniques, is essential to develop sustainable solutions that protect heritage assets for future generations.

This research topic aims to explore innovative solutions through the integration of antifungal proteins/peptides in cultural heritage preservation, while looking to the futuristic potential of using biologically derived antifungal proteins and de novo synthesized peptide derivatives to protect valuable historical artifacts and structures from fungal biodeterioration. Researchers should investigate the stability, efficacy, and environmental impact of these compounds, considering both the challenges and opportunities they present in heritage conservation. The study could lead to breakthroughs in sustainable preservation methodologies, integrating cutting-edge biotechnology with traditional conservation practices. By addressing the biochemical mechanisms of fungal degradation and assessing novel antifungal strategies, this issue opens new avenues for interdisciplinary research bridging microbiology, material science, biotechnology, and cultural heritage conservation.

Topics of interest include, but are not limited to:

• Mechanisms of fungal biodeterioration affecting historical artifacts and structures

• Development and characterization of antifungal proteins/peptides in cultural heritage protection

• The efficacy, stability, and environmental impact of antifungal proteins/peptides in preservation

• Biotechnological integration with traditional conservation practices against fungal biodeteriogens

• Case studies and experimental approaches demonstrating novel protein/peptide-based antifungal strategies in cultural heritage protection

• Identification of preservation methodologies that mitigate fungal damage while maintaining the integrity of historical artifacts and structures

We welcome original research articles, reviews, and case studies that contribute to the understanding and application of antifungal proteins/peptides in cultural heritage conservation.

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Future-Proofing Heritage: Antifungal Proteins in Cultural Preservation