Proteins in microbial synthesis of selenium nanoparticles

Area of Science:

• Biotechnology and Nanotechnology
• Microbiology
• Materials Science

Background:

• Biogenic formation of nano-sized particles, particularly selenium (Se), by microorganisms is a naturally occurring phenomenon.
• Microbial synthesis of nanoparticles (NPs) is gaining research interest due to diverse applications in nanobiotechnology and unique 'green synthesis' mechanisms.
• Proteins are increasingly recognized for their significant roles in microbial NP formation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent data on the multifaceted role of proteins in microbial reduction of selenium oxyanions.
• To analyze protein involvement in the growth and stabilization of biogenic selenium nanoparticles (Se NPs).
• To highlight the unique nanostructured materials formed via microbial synthesis compared to chemical methods.

Main Methods:

• Review of recent scientific literature on microbial synthesis of selenium nanoparticles.
• Analysis of the role of proteins in reducing selenium oxyanions (selenites and selenates).
• Examination of instrumental analysis techniques for biogenic Se NPs and their proteinaceous surface layers.

Main Results:

• Proteins are crucial not only for reducing selenium oxyanions but also for the growth and stabilization of Se NPs.
• Microbially synthesized Se NPs exhibit unique nanostructures due to protein functionalization.
• Biogenic nanostructured selenium particles are formed with a surface-capping layer of various biomacromolecules.

Conclusions:

• Proteins are central to the microbial biosynthesis of selenium nanoparticles, influencing both formation and structure.
• The study of these protein-mediated processes provides insights into novel nanobiotechnology applications.
• Biogenic Se NPs offer distinct advantages over chemically synthesized counterparts due to their unique surface properties.