Biotechnological potential of epilithic and epiphytic lichens distributed on the territory of Armenia

Lichens are very interesting natural sources of bioactive compounds which provide unlimited opportunities for new antimicrobial, antioxidant, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, analgesic and antipyretic agents. Since the biodiversity of lichens of Armenia is still being unexplored, and studies about biotechnological potential of lichens distributed in Armenia have not been held yet, aim of presented work is to explore possible biotechnological potential of lichens. In framework of presented project, we are planning to study antibacterial, antifungal, antioxidant, antihelmntic and cytotoxic activities of epiphytic and epilithic lichens which are unique for Armenia. The successful outcome is promising to get novel information of antimicrobial and antioxidant activities of lichens distributed in Armenia and to evaluate their biotechnological potential.