Chinese and Belgian researchers propose yolk-like single cyanobacterium capsules

In China, inspired by the yolk-shell structure of eggs and the structural ordering of cell surfaces in the evolution, researchers proposed highly stable single cyanobacterium capsules with an ordered yolk-shell structure of uniformly organized and tunable nanoporosity shaped by protein-assisted, hydrophilic colloidal silica packing.

The void between the ordered nanoporous shell and cell is created by the controlled internalization of protamine, which could subsequently be filled by nutrients. Shells thus constructed are not only biocompatible but also endow introduction of new and unprecedented cell surface functionalities, such as specific size-dependent permeability and defined molecular recognition abilities. Owing to the presence of the buffering interstitial hollow space filled by nutrient between the ordered nanoporous shell and the cell surface, cyanobacterial activity, and stability evolving from this yolk-shell encapsulation technology are highly enhanced. Because of the specific size-dependent permeability stemming from uniformly organized nanoporosity, the survival ability of yolk-shell encapsulated cyanobacteria against toxic chemical environments is significantly strengthened. In addition, this yolk-shell structure can also be equipped with molecular recognition abilities.

Researchers from the living materials team from Wuhan University of Technology and the University of Namur who developed the technology envisioned single cells encapsulated in their ordered yolk-shell structures have a broad scope in a wide range of applications with specific functionalities, including in photobioreactors, biochips, biosensors, biocatalysis, biofuel reactors, and controlled delivery therapeutics.