Rare earth elements in biology: From biochemical curiosity to solutions for extractive industries

Abstract

Rare earth elements (REEs) are critical for our modern lifestyles and the transition to a low‐carbon economy. Recent advances in our understanding of the role of REEs in biology, particularly methylotrophy, have provided opportunities to explore biotechnological innovations to improve REE mining and recycling. In addition to bacterial accumulation and concentration of REEs, biological REE binders, including proteins (lanmodulin, lanpepsy) and small molecules (metallophores and cofactors) have been identified that enable REE concentration and separation. REE‐binding proteins have also been used in several mechanistically distinct REE biosensors, which have potential application in mining and medicine. Notably, the role of REEs in biology has only been known for a decade, suggesting their considerable scope for developing new understanding and novel applications.