Characterization of Functional Biohybrid Materials Based on Saccharomyces Cerevisiae Biomass

Abstract

Biohybrid materials and engineered living materials (ELMs) are a dynamic field of research at the interface of material science and synthetic biology. Recently, microorganisms have been described as both functional and structural building blocks of such materials. Dry materials with bacteria as structural building block have previously not been investigated for their ability to retain catalytic activity. Herein, it is shown that Saccharomyces cerevisiae biomass can act as a structural building block in dry, macroscopic materials while simultaneously providing functionality. A benign method for the preparation of both coatings and free‐standing, flexible films is presented. Notably, free‐standing films can be prepared solely from biomass and plasticizers without the need for other additives. During the process, the integrity of the cells and the catalytic activity within is preserved, which is demonstrated by biocatalytic H2O2 degradation. The film‐forming properties of S. cerevisiae biomass and the influence of plasticizing and polymeric additives on the mechanical properties are investigated in detail and compared to related materials. The work presented is a first step toward new, mechanically strong microorganism‐based functional coatings and films.