In a groundbreaking study, scientists have developed hybrid biomicroparticles that merge cellulose with functionalized fusion proteins, marking a significant leap forward in the miniaturization of technology. This cutting-edge research taps into the bioengineering realm, utilizing biological systems and advanced bioengineering techniques, including chemical, enzymatic, and recombinant methods.
The focus of this innovative research centers on the creation of ‘artificial’ concatemeric proteins with preprogrammed functions, crafted using the pioneering DNA FACE™ technology. These proteins, when fused with a cellulose binding domain (CBD), can be efficiently attached to micro- and nanocellulose, resulting in the formation of functional, hybrid bionanoparticles. A novel enzymatic hydrolysis process, employing Aspergillus sp. cellulase, facilitated the generation of these microcellulose (MCC) particles.
The interaction among the MCC, CBD, and fused concatemeric proteins was thoroughly evaluated, leading to the successful development of hybrid biomicroparticles. These particles combine a natural cellulose biocarrier with therapeutically active proteins fused with CBD. Importantly, biological tests have confirmed that these hybrid bioMCC particles are not cytotoxic to 46BR.1 N fibroblasts and human adipose-derived stem cells (ASCs). Furthermore, XTT analysis revealed a minor inhibition in cell proliferation stimulated by the hybrid biomicroparticles, with no detectable changes in cell morphology following exposure.
This research introduces a revolutionary method for protein expression and presentation by leveraging cellulose, a ubiquitous natural polymer in plants. By exploiting the structural capabilities of cellulose to display various recombinant proteins on its surface, this approach opens new avenues for biotechnological, biomedical, and other applications.
Microcellulose stands out for its potential in the biomedical field, where it could play a pivotal role in developing wound healing materials, drug delivery systems, tissue engineering scaffolds, and biosensors. Its biocompatibility and structural properties make it an ideal candidate for these applications, promising to usher in a new era of medical advancements and biotechnological innovations.
