From diatoms to silica-based biohybrids.

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Biotechnology

Background:

• Diatoms are single-celled algae enclosed in intricate silica shells called frustules.
• Diatom frustules possess unique 3D hierarchical structures and tunable porosity.
• These microalgae offer a sustainable and biocompatible platform for advanced material synthesis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the potential of diatoms as a source of inspiration for synthesizing advanced nanostructured biohybrids.
• To explore the use of diatom frustules and biomolecules in creating novel materials and devices.
• To highlight the emerging field of diatom nanotechnology and its interdisciplinary nature.

Main Methods:

• Sol-gel process for creating silica-based biohybrids by trapping biomolecules or whole cells.
• Utilizing the natural structure of diatom frustules as templates or scaffolds.
• Investigating the viability and metabolic activity of diatom-based living biohybrids.

Main Results:

• Silica-based biohybrids synthesized using diatoms show promise for biosensors and bioreactors.
• Living biohybrids maintain cellular viability and metabolic functions, opening avenues in biotechnology.
• Diatom frustules serve as versatile scaffolds for nanostructured materials, sensors, photonic devices, and microfluidics.

Conclusions:

• Diatoms provide a powerful model for designing and synthesizing advanced nanostructured biohybrids.
• Diatom nanotechnology represents a rapidly growing interdisciplinary field with significant potential.
• The unique properties of diatoms facilitate innovations in nanomedicine, biotechnology, and materials science.