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Bacterial nanocellulose (BNC) is a durable, flexible, and dynamic biomaterial capable of serving a wide variety of fields, sectors, and applications within biotechnology, healthcare, electronics, agriculture, fashion, and others. BNC is produced spontaneously in carbohydrate-rich bacterial culture media, forming a cellulosic pellicle via a nanonetwork of fibrils extruded from certain genera. Herein, we demonstrate engineering BNC-based scaffolds with tunable physical and mechanical properties through postprocessing. Human skeletal muscle myoblasts (HSMMs) were cultured on these scaffolds, and in vitro electrical stimulation was applied to promote cellular function for tissue engineering applications. We compared physiologic maturation markers of human skeletal muscle myoblast development using a 2.5-dimensional culture paradigm in fabricated BNC scaffolds, compared to two-dimensional (2D) controls. We demonstrate that the culture of human skeletal muscle myoblasts on BNC scaffolds developed under electrical stimulation produced highly aligned, physiologic morphology of human skeletal muscle myofibers compared to unstimulated BNC and standard 2D culture. Furthermore, we compared an array of metrics to assess the BNC scaffold in a rigorous head-to-head study with commercially available, clinically approved matrices, Kerecis Omega3 Wound Matrix (Marigen) and Phoenix as well as a gelatin methacryloyl (GelMA) hydrogel. The BNC scaffold outcompeted industry standard matrices as well as a 20% GelMA hydrogel in durability and sustained the support of human skeletal muscle myoblasts in vitro. This work offers a robust demonstration of BNC scaffold cytocompatibility with human skeletal muscle cells and sets the basis for future work in healthcare, bioengineering, and medical implant technological development.

Bacterial nanocellulose (BNC) currently has emerged as a potential biopolymer that can be used for various industrial applications. However, the major concern is the limitation of the bacteria used for BNC production on a larger scale. This study aimed to isolate and identify potential nanocellulose-producing bacteria from pineapple wastes. In this study, 11 isolates were screened and the F1 isolate, which produced the highest BNC yield was chosen for 16S rRNA sequencing. Based on the 16S rRNA analysis, Comamonas terrae YSZ sp. (OQ592726.1) was the best BNC producer with 1.68 ± 0.19 g/L yield. The physicochemical characteristics from FESEM analysis revealed that C. terrae YSZ sp. produced amorphous BNC, with fewer nanofibrils. The XRD analysis showed that the BNC produced had a 19.3% of crystallinity index. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first work reporting the isolation of C. terrae YSZ sp. from pineapple wastes with more amorphous regions providing an interesting alternative for heavy metal removal potentials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bacterial nanocellulose has been commonly used as a gelling or stabilizing agent in the food industry and as an excipient in pharmacology. However, due to its physical and chemical properties, such as its high degradation temperature and the ease with which it can interact with other molecules, bacterial nanocellulose has been established as a material with great potential for the protection of bioactive compounds. This research shows the capacity of bacterial nanocellulose to establish interactions with B vitamins (B1, B2, B3 and B12) through different sorption isotherms, mainly by means of the BET, GAB and TSS models. First, the degradation of the vitamin B complex, which mostly occurs upon heating, is minimized in the presence of BNC, herein proposed as a thermal stabilizer. Secondly, BNC is shown to bind to micronutrients and act as dietary fiber. BNC acts as a thickening and water-binding agent. The effects of BNC are determined to occur as an encapsulation system that facilitates affinity adsorption in mono- and multilayers. Finally, bacterial nanocellulose was used as an encapsulating agent for the vitamin B complex by spray drying. It is demonstrated that BNC is a very successful new nanomaterial for encapsulation, with a high level of adsorption, and for the protection of hydro-soluble vitamins. BNC has shown great potential to adsorb vitamins B1, B2, B3 and B12 owing to their hydroxyl groups, which are responsible for its water or vitamin sorption. Due to the features of bacterial nanocellulose, it is possible to use it as a raw material in the food industry to protect micronutrients during the thermal process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bacterial nanocellulose (BNC) prepared by the methods of "green" bionanotechnological synthesis is considered a promising food additive and food ingredient. At the same time, the risk of reducing the bioavailability of minerals due to their adsorption on BNC fibers having a high specific surface area and high adsorption and ion exchange capacity cannot be excluded. We studied the effect of oral administration of BNC on the accumulation of macronutrients and trace elements included in the diet in the liver and kidneys of laboratory animals. Male Wistar rats received BNC at doses of 0 (control), 1, 10, and 100 mg/kg body weight as part of their diet for 8 weeks. The content of 30 macronutrients and trace elements in the liver and kidneys was determined by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. It was found that BNC at all doses did not significantly change the content of the main essential macronutrients and trace elements in the organs (Ca, Cr, Cu, Fe, K, Mg, Mn, Na, P, Se, and Zn), which indicates the absence of a negative effect on their bioavailability. Among other elements, a statistically significant decrease in the content of As, B, Cd, Co, and Pb in the liver and an increase in Al, B, Ba, Ni, and Pb in the kidneys were revealed (more than 20% of the control). The revealed decrease in the bioaccumulation of cobalt can indicate inhibition of assimilation of certain chemical forms of this trace element under the action of BNC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bacterial nanocellulose (BC) has attracted significant attention across a wide array of applications due to its distinctive characteristics. Recently, there has been increasing interest in leveraging waste biomass to improve sustainability in BC biogenesis processes. This study focuses on optimizing the citrus pulp waste (CPW) medium to enhance BC production using Komagataeibacter sucrofermentans. The screening of initial medium pH, yeast extract, CPW sugar and inoculum concentrations was conducted using the Plackett–Burman design, with BC yield (mgDW/gCPW) as the model response. The significant parameters, i.e., CPW sugars and yeast extract concentrations, were optimized using response surface methodology, employing a five-level, two-factor central composite design. The optimized CPW-based growth medium resulted in a final yield of 66.7 ± 5.1 mgDW/gCPW, representing a 14-fold increase compared to non-optimized conditions (4.3 ± 0.4 mgBC/gCPW). Material characterization analysis indicated that the produced BC showed high thermal stability (30% mass retained at 600 °C) and a crystallinity index value of 71%. Additionally, to enhance process sustainability, spent baker's yeast hydrolysate (BYH) was assessed as a substitute for yeast extract, leading to a final BC titer of 9.3 ± 0.6 g/L. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bacterial nanocellulose (BNC) possesses unique properties that make it an appealing biomaterial for various biomedical applications. However, its potential in dentistry has not been broadly investigated. This paper provides a comprehensive overview of the potential applications of BNC in dentistry, including the design of implants, scaffolds, wound dressing materials, oral and bone tissue repair, drug delivery systems, and antimicrobial BNC composites. BNC has emerged as a promising biomaterial for various applications in dentistry. Benefiting from its numerous properties, BNC is widely used in hard and soft tissue engineering, particularly in the design of scaffolds, implants, and membranes. Additionally, BNC is suitable as a wound dressing for wounds, including intraoral lesions such as aphthous stomatitis and other mucosal ulcers. Furthermore, BNC can be employed in drug delivery systems. BNC's use in performing surgical and endodontic treatments, as well as in manufacturing nanocomposites that promote bone mineralization in the dental periapical area, guided bone regeneration (GBR), and periodontal scaffolds and membranes, has been limited. Moreover, BNC has been applied to improve dental material characteristics and silicate cements leading to the development of practical, novel composites in this field. In addition to these application areas, future research could consider the development of antibaterial composites using BNC and the execution of clinical trials assessing their role as adjunctive treatments for periodontal diseases in dentistry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An economically and environmentally viable alternative for treating waste from iron ore production in Brazil is the use of bacterial nanocellulose (BNC) as an adsorbent for the metals present in the waste composition, due to its biocompatibility and biodegradability properties. However, to reduce production costs, it is necessary to study alternative substrates, such as waste from the brewing industry, which are nutritionally rich and, therefore, excellent candidates for substrate for bacteria that produce bacterial nanocellulose. Therefore, the present work aims to statically produce BNC using waste from the brewing industry and use BNC as an adsorbent for treating waste from the mining industry. It was possible to obtain approximately 1532 mg of bacterial nanocellulose through the batch system using the hydrolyzate of residual brewing yeast at pH 7 and 5 days of incubation. When used as an adsorbent, the material obtained a maximum adsorption capacity for the metals Co (II), Ni (II), Cu (II) and Fe (III) of, respectively, 0.0739, 0.2504, 0.3945 and 0.02841 mg·g−1. For the same metals, the removal rate of the synthetic solutions studied was, respectively, 62.56, 39.13, 61.64 and 24.42%. For the analysis of isotherms, the Freundlich model proved to be the most effective for describing the system. Regarding the adsorption kinetics, it was more effective in the Elovich model. This data shows that nanocellulose produced by bacteria and using agro-industrial subproducts becomes a good alternative for remediation processes in a sustainable way. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bacterial nanocellulose (BNC) is a unique biopolymer with remarkable purity and material properties that distinguish it from plant-derived cellulose by its absence of lignin and hemicellulose. Recent research has focused on using organic waste materials as alternative substrates to reduce the cost of BNC production. This study examines the efficacy of Siwalan neer and sugarcane molasses as novel media for cultivating Komagataeibacter xylinus by comparing their performance with that of Hestrin and Schramm (HS) medium. The BNC harvested from these alternative media was rigorously characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), and Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA) to evaluate its structural and thermal properties. Notably, the use of Siwalan neer and sugarcane molasses as growth substrates enabled K. xylinus to produce BNC at a yield of 3.83 g/L, significantly exceeding the yield from the HS medium, which was 1.46 g/L. These findings highlight the potential of leveraging alternative substrates to enhance BNC production yield, cost-effectiveness, and environmental sustainability.

Starch-based pH-sensing films with bacterial nanocellulose (BNC) and red cabbage anthocyanins (RCA) as active components were investigated in this research. Their structural, physical, surface and colorimetric properties were analyzed, mainly as a function of BNC concentration. The aim of the research was to relate the changes in the intermolecular interactions between the components of the films (starch, anthocyanins and BNC) to the physical, surface and colorimetric properties that are important for the primary intended application of the produced films as pH indicators in smart packaging. The results showed that maize starch (MS) was more suitable as a matrix for the stabilization of anthocyanins compared to potato starch (PS). PS-based films showed a lower value of water contact angle than MS-based films, indicating stronger hydrophilicity. The swelling behavior results indicate that the concentrations of BNC in MS-based films (cca 10%) and the concentration of about 50% BNC in PS-based films are required if satisfactory properties of the indicator in terms of stability in a wet environment are to be achieved. The surface free energy results of PS-based films with BNC were between 62 and 68 mJ/m2 and with BNC and RCA between 64 and 68 mJ/m2; for MS-based films, the value was about 65 mJ/m2 for all samples with BNC and about 68 mJ/m2 for all samples with BNC and RCA. The visual color changes after immersion in different buffer solutions (pH 2.0–10.5) showed a gradual transition from red/pink to purple, blue and green for the observed samples. Films immersed in different buffers showed lower values of 2 to 10 lightness points (CIE L*) for PS-based films and 10 to 30 lightness points for MS-based films after the addition of BNC. The results of this research can make an important contribution to defining the influence of intermolecular interactions and structural changes on the physical, surface and colorimetric properties of bio-based pH indicators used in smart packaging applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study aimed to create a more sustainable and controlled delivery system based on natural biopolymer bacterial nanocellulose (BNC) and bacterial natural product actinomycin (Act), with the applicative potential in the biomedical field. In order to provide improved interaction between BNC and the active compound, and thus to modulate the release kinetics, the TEMPO oxidation of BNC support was carried out. A mix of actinomycins from bacterial fermentation (ActX) were used as natural antimicrobial agents with an established bioactivity profile and clinical use. BNC and TEMPO-oxidized BNC films with incorporated active compounds were obtained and analyzed by FTIR, SEM, XPS, and XRD. The ActX release profiles were determined in phosphate-buffer solution, PBS, at 37 °C over time. FTIR analysis confirmed the improved incorporation and efficiency of ActX adsorption on oxidized BNC due to the availability of more active sites provided by oxidation. SEM analysis indicated the incorporation of ActX into the less-dense morphology of the TEMPO-oxidized BNC in comparison to pure BNC. The release kinetics of ActX were significantly affected by the BNC structure, and the activated BNC sample indicated the sustained release of active compounds over time, corresponding to the Fickian diffusion mechanism. Antimicrobial tests using Staphylococcus aureus NCTC 6571 confirmed the potency of this BNC-based system for biomedical applications, taking advantage of the capacity of modified BNC to control and modulate the release of bioactive compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bacterial nanocellulose (BNC) has emerged as a versatile and sustainable biomaterial with unprecedented potential in various fields, particularly in the realm of food packaging. This review explores the synthesis and bioengineering advancements in harnessing BNC for creating green, active, and smart solutions to address contemporary challenges in the food packaging industry. Certain groups of bacteria produce BNC as an extracellular matrix that exhibits exceptional physicochemical properties, making it an ideal candidate for innovative packaging applications. Its unique nanostructure, high mechanical strength, and its biocompatibility distinguishes it, offering a potential alternative to conventional packaging materials. The versatility of BNC extends beyond its fundamental properties, as researchers explore modifications to make it suitable for specific applications. This review discusses the strategies employed to enhance BNC's functionality in food packaging, including its role as an active, antimicrobial, and intelligent material. Various modifications, such as the incorporation of bioactive compounds and responsive polymers using various nanoparticles, anthocyanins, chitosan, plant extracts, fatty acids, proteins and enzymes, enable BNC to actively engage with its environment. This extends the shelf life of packaged food and ensures safety. Despite the promising potential, the present review also acknowledges the existing challenges in the commercial production of BNC for food packaging. Issues such as scalability and cost-effectiveness are addressed to provide a comprehensive overview of the current state of the field. By examining the production processes, physicochemical properties and modifications, this review offers valuable insights into the prospects of BNC as a sustainable and innovative solution in the dynamic landscape of green, active and intelligent food packaging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Novacetimonas hansenii SI1, previously known as Komagataeibacter hansenii , produces bacterial nanocellulose (BNC) with unique ability to stretch. The addition of vitamin C in the culture medium increases the porosity of the membranes and their stretchability making them highly moldable. To better understand the genetic background of this strain, we obtained its complete genome sequence using a hybrid sequencing and assembly strategy. We described the functional regions in the genome which are important for the synthesis of BNC and acetan-like II polymer. We next investigated the effect of 1% vitamin C supplementation on the global gene expression profile using RNA sequencing. Our transcriptomic readouts imply that vitamin C functions mainly as a reducing agent. We found that the changes in cellular redox status are balanced by strong repression of the sulfur assimilation pathway. Moreover, in the reduced conditions, glucose oxidation is decreased and alternative pathways for energy generation, such as acetate accumulation, are activated. The presence of vitamin C negatively influences acetan-like II polymer biosynthesis, which may explain the lowered yield and changed mechanical properties of BNC. The results of this study enrich the functional characteristics of the genomes of the efficient producers of the N. hansenii species. Improved understanding of the adaptation to the presence of vitamin C at the molecular level has important guiding significance for influencing the biosynthesis of BNC and its morphology. [Display omitted] • Complete genome of N. hansenii SI1 displays characteristic features of the N. hansenii species. • Transcriptomic readouts show that vitamin C at 1% acts mainly as a reducing agent. • Changes in cellular redox status are balanced by strong repression of the sulfur assimilation pathway. • Vitamin C induces glucose uptake in the cytosol and reductive activation of alternative pathways for energy generation. • Repression of acetan-like II biosynthesis may contribute to the reduced yield and changed mechanical properties of BNC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bacterial nanocellulose is an innovative material that has the potential to revolutionize various aspects of dentistry. This unique form of cellulose produced by certain bacterial strains possesses exceptional properties that make it a promising candidate for a wide range of dental applications. The synthesis process of BNC plays a pivotal role in determining a material's unique properties making it a fascinating subject to know more about. This concise review provides insights into the key aspects of Bacterial nanocellulose synthesis and production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bacterial nanocellulose (BNC) has various unique qualities, including high mechanical strength, crystallinity, and high water‐holding capacity, which makes it appropriate for a wide range of industrial applications. But its lower yield coupled with its high production cost creates a barrier to its usage. In this study, we have demonstrated the better yield of BNC from an indigenous strain Komagataeibacter rhaeticus MCC‐0157 using a rotary disc bioreactor (RDB) having a wooden disc. The RDB was optimized based on the type of disc material, distance between the disc, and rotation speed to get the highest yield of 13.0 g/L dry material using Hestrin–Schramm (H–S) medium. Further, the bioreactor was compared for the BNC production using reported medium, which is used for static condition; the RDB showed up to fivefold increase in comparison with the static condition reported. Komagataeibacter rhaeticus MCC‐0157 was previously reported to be one of the highest BNC producing stains, with 8.37 g/L of dry yield in static condition in 15 days incubation. The designed RDB demonstrated 13.0 g/L dry yield of BNC in just 5 days. Other characteristics of BNC remain same as compared with static BNC production, although the difference in the crystallinity index was observed in RDB (84.44%) in comparison with static (89.74%). For the first time, wooden disc was used for rotary bioreactor approach, which demonstrated higher yield of BNC in lesser time and can be further used for sustainable production of BNC at the industrial level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The research presented here is an attempt to develop an innovative and environmentally friendly material based on bacterial nanocellulose (BNC), which will be able to replace both animal skins and synthetic polymer products. Bacterial nanocellulose becomes stiff and brittle when dried, so attempts have been made to plasticise this material so that BNC can be used in industry. The research presented here focuses on the ecological modification of bacterial nanocellulose with vegetable oils such as rapeseed oil, linseed oil, and grape seed oil. The effect of compatibilisers of a natural origin on the plasticisation process of BNC, such as chlorophyll, curcumin, and L-glutamine, was also evaluated. BNC samples were modified with rapeseed, linseed, and grapeseed oils, as well as mixtures of each of these oils with the previously mentioned additives. The modification was carried out by passing the oil, or oil mixture, through the BNC using vacuum filtration, where the BNC acted as a filter. The following tests were performed to determine the effect of the modification on the BNC: FTIR spectroscopic analysis, contact angle measurements, and static mechanical analysis. As a result of the modification, the BNC was plasticised. Rapeseed oil proved to be the best for this purpose, with the help of which a material with good strength and elasticity was obtained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polymers have become an important part of everyday life, but most of the polymers currently used are petroleum-based. This poses an environmental problem, especially with respect to products that are quickly discarded. For this reason, current packaging development focuses on sustainable materials as an alternative to synthetic ones. Nanocellulose, a relatively new material derived from cellulose, has unique properties such as high strength, low density, high surface area, and good barrier properties, making it popular in various applications. Additionally, 3D printing technologies have become an important part of industrial and commercial processes, enabling the realization of innovative ideas and functionalities. The main aim of this research was to develop a hydrogel of bacterial nanocellulose with suitable rheological properties for the 3D printing of polymer foils. Three variations of bacterial nanocellulose hydrogel differing in ratios of bacterial nanocellulose to cationic starch were produced. The rheological studies confirmed the suitability of the hydrogels for 3D printing. Foils were successfully 3D-printed using a modified 3D printer. The physical-mechanical, surface, and optical properties of the foils were determined. All foils were homogeneous with adequate mechanical properties. The 3D-printed foils with the highest amount of cationic starch were the most homogeneous and transparent and, despite their rigidity, very strong. All foils were semi-transparent, had a non-glossy surface, and retained poor water wettability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Bacterial nanocellulose (BNC), a natural polymer material, gained significant popularity among researchers and industry. It has great potential in areas, such as textile manufacturing, fiber-based paper, and packaging products, food industry, biomedical materials, and advanced functional bionanocomposites. The main current fermentation methods for BNC involved static culture, as the agitated culture methods had lower raw material conversion rates and resulted in non-uniform product formation. Currently, studies have shown that the production of BNC can be enhanced by incorporating specific additives into the culture medium. These additives included organic acids or polysaccharides. γ-Polyglutamic acid (γ-PGA), known for its high polymerization, excellent biodegradability, and environmental friendliness, has found extensive application in various industries including daily chemicals, medicine, food, and agriculture. Results In this particular study, 0.15 g/L of γ-PGA was incorporated as a medium additive to cultivate BNC under agitated culture conditions of 120 rpm and 30 ℃. The BNC production increased remarkably by 209% in the medium with 0.15 g/L γ-PGA and initial pH of 5.0 compared to that in the standard medium, and BNC production increased by 7.3% in the medium with 0.06 g/L γ-PGA. The addition of γ-PGA as a medium additive resulted in significant improvements in BNC production. Similarly, at initial pH levels of 4.0 and 6.0, the BNC production also increased by 39.3% and 102.3%, respectively. To assess the characteristics of the BNC products, scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and thermogravimetric analysis were used. The average diameter of BNC fibers, which was prepared from the medium adding 0.15 g/L γ-PGA, was twice thicker than that of BNC fibers prepared from the control culture medium. That might be because that polyglutamic acid relieved the BNC synthesis from the shear stress from the agitation. Conclusions This experiment held great significance as it explored the use of a novel medium additive, γ-PGA, to improve the production and the glucose conversion rate in BNC fermentation. And the BNC fibers became thicker, with better thermal stability, higher crystallinity, and higher degree of polymerization (DPv). These findings lay a solid foundation for future large-scale fermentation production of BNC using bioreactors.

This study investigated the effect of some herbal extracts, such as licorice root, white mulberry leaf, green tea leaf, and grape seed, with a combination of bacterial nanocellulose and some bioactive materials, such as ascorbic acid, niacinamide, hexylresorcinol, and alpha-arbutin, on treatment of hyperpigmentation. The effect of the prepared emulsions on hyperpigmentation was revealed by analyzing their tyrosinase inhibition properties, their ability to stop melanin production, or their properties of whitening the brown spot on the skin. In addition to the physicochemical properties of the 5 different emulsions obtained, tyrosinase, collagenase, and elastase enzyme activities, antioxidant properties, cytotoxicity, and microbiological analyzes were performed by cell-culture modelling. Finally, a dermocosmetic facial serum was designed that is compatible with skin pH, is homogeneously mixed, has good spreading properties, does not cause any microbiological growth, does not inhibit elastase activity while stimulating collagenase activity, reduces melanin production by inhibiting the tyrosinase enzyme, and does not have any toxic effects.

Background and Objective: Bacterial nanocellulose is known as a potential carrier for a widespread spectrum of biological compounds, including antibacterial and antifungal compounds. The present study was conducted to determine the impact of bacterial nanocellulose containing Natamycin and Amphotericin B on Aspergillus flavus and Penicillium citrinum in an in vitro environment. Methods: In this descriptive-analytical research, Aspergillus flavus-PTCC: 5006 and Penicillium citrinum-PTCC: 5304 fungi were prepared from the Fungal Collection of the Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Urmia University. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and the minimum fungicidal concentration (MFC) of Natamycin and Amphotericin B against Aspergillus flavus and Penicillium citrinum were evaluated by the microdilution method. Bacterial nanocellulose was prepared using Komagata xylinum bacterium, and Natamycin and Amphotericin B were added in three concentrations of 0.01%, 0.05%, and 0.1% to wet and lyophilized nanocellulose films by the immersion method. Then, the antifungal effects of the film containing the above compounds against the investigated fungi were investigated by the agar diffusion method. Parchment paper was used as a control for comparison. Spectral properties of nanocellulose film containing antifungal compounds were evaluated by the Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) method. Results: MIC and MFC of Natamycin for Aspergillus flavus were determined as 3.9 μg/mL and 7.81 μg/mL, and for Penicillium citrinum as 7.81 μg/mL and 15.62 μg/mL, respectively. MIC and MFC of Amphotericin B for Aspergillus flavus were determined as 7.81 μg/mL and 15.62 μg/mL, and for Penicillium citrinum as 15.62 μg/mL and 31.25 μg/mL, respectively. The increased concentration had a statistically significant impact on the antifungal properties of all films (P

Background: Bacterial nanocellulose (BNC), a natural polymer material, gained significant popularity among researchers and industry. It has great potential in areas, such as textile manufacturing, fiber-based paper, and packaging products, food industry, biomedical materials, and advanced functional bionanocomposites. The main current fermentation methods for BNC involved static culture, as the agitated culture methods had lower raw material conversion rates and resulted in non-uniform product formation. Currently, studies have shown that the production of BNC can be enhanced by incorporating specific additives into the culture medium. These additives included organic acids or polysaccharides. γ-Polyglutamic acid (γ-PGA), known for its high polymerization, excellent biodegradability, and environmental friendliness, has found extensive application in various industries including daily chemicals, medicine, food, and agriculture. Results: In this particular study, 0.15 g/L of γ-PGA was incorporated as a medium additive to cultivate BNC under agitated culture conditions of 120 rpm and 30 ℃. The BNC production increased remarkably by 209% in the medium with 0.15 g/L γ-PGA and initial pH of 5.0 compared to that in the standard medium, and BNC production increased by 7.3% in the medium with 0.06 g/L γ-PGA. The addition of γ-PGA as a medium additive resulted in significant improvements in BNC production. Similarly, at initial pH levels of 4.0 and 6.0, the BNC production also increased by 39.3% and 102.3%, respectively. To assess the characteristics of the BNC products, scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and thermogravimetric analysis were used. The average diameter of BNC fibers, which was prepared from the medium adding 0.15 g/L γ-PGA, was twice thicker than that of BNC fibers prepared from the control culture medium. That might be because that polyglutamic acid relieved the BNC synthesis from the shear stress from the agitation. Conclusions: This experiment held great significance as it explored the use of a novel medium additive, γ-PGA, to improve the production and the glucose conversion rate in BNC fermentation. And the BNC fibers became thicker, with better thermal stability, higher crystallinity, and higher degree of polymerization (DPv). These findings lay a solid foundation for future large-scale fermentation production of BNC using bioreactors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Interest in bacterial nanocellulose (BNC) has grown due to its purity, mechanical properties, and biological compatibility. To address the need for alternative carbon sources in the industrial production of BNC, this study focuses on banana leaves, discarded during harvesting, as a valuable source. Banana midrib juice, rich in nutrients and reducing sugars, is identified as a potential carbon source. An optimal culture medium was designed using a simplex-centroid mixing design and evaluated in a 10 L bioreactor. Techniques such as Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) were used to characterize the structural, thermal, and morphological properties of BNC. Banana midrib juice exhibited specific properties, such as pH (5.64), reducing sugars (15.97 g/L), Trolox (45.07 µM), °Brix (4.00), and antioxidant activity (71% DPPH). The model achieved a 99.97% R-adjusted yield of 6.82 g BNC/L. Physicochemical analyses revealed distinctive attributes associated with BNC. This approach optimizes BNC production and emphasizes the banana midrib as a circular solution for BNC production, promoting sustainability in banana farming and contributing to the sustainable development goals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objective: Bacterial nanocellulose is known as a potential carrier for a widespread spectrum of biological compounds, including antibacterial and antifungal compounds. The present study was conducted to determine the impact of bacterial nanocellulose containing Natamycin and Amphotericin B on Aspergillus flavus and Penicillium citrinum in an in vitro environment. Methods: In this descriptive-analytical research, Aspergillus flavus-PTCC: 5006 and Penicillium citrinum-PTCC: 5304 fungi were prepared from the Fungal Collection of the Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Urmia University. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and the minimum fungicidal concentration (MFC) of Natamycin and Amphotericin B against Aspergillus flavus and Penicillium citrinum were evaluated by the microdilution method. Bacterial nanocellulose was prepared using Komagata xylinum bacterium, and Natamycin and Amphotericin B were added in three concentrations of 0.01%, 0.05%, and 0.1% to wet and lyophilized nanocellulose films by the immersion method. Then, the antifungal effects of the film containing the above compounds against the investigated fungi were investigated by the agar diffusion method. Parchment paper was used as a control for comparison. Spectral properties of nanocellulose film containing antifungal compounds were evaluated by the Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) method. Results: MIC and MFC of Natamycin for Aspergillus flavus were determined as 3.9 μg/mL and 7.81 μg/mL, and for Penicillium citrinum as 7.81 μg/mL and 15.62 μg/mL, respectively. MIC and MFC of Amphotericin B for Aspergillus flavus were determined as 7.81 μg/mL and 15.62 μg/mL, and for Penicillium citrinum as 15.62 μg/mL and 31.25 μg/mL, respectively. The increased concentration had a statistically significant impact on the antifungal properties of all films (P<0.05). The best antifungal effects of the film were related to the film containing Natamycin. Conclusion: Bacterial nanocellulose containing Natamycin showed stronger antifungal effects in an in vitro environment compared to Amphotericin B against Aspergillus flavus and Penicillium citrinum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the current contribution, bacterial nanocellulose obtained from a by-product of Kombucha tea production and vegetal nanocellulose isolated from milled rice husks were employed as fillers of PLA-based composites prepared by intensive mixing followed by compression molding. Given the challenges associated with the incorporation of nanocelluloses—initially obtained as aqueous suspensions—into melt compounding processes, and also with achieving a proper dispersion of the hydrophilic nanofillers within PLA, three different nanofibrils incorporation strategies were studied: i.e., direct mixing of dried milled nanocelluloses and PLA; masterbatching by solvent casting of native nanocelluloses followed by melt compounding; and masterbatching by solvent casting of acetylated nanocelluloses followed by melt compounding. Composites with varying filler content (from 0.5 wt.% to 7 wt.%) were characterized in terms of morphology, optical properties, and mechanical performance. Results revealed the relative suitability of each strategy employed to promote nanocelluloses dispersion within the PLA matrix. PLA/nanocellulose masterbatches prepared by solvent casting proved to be particularly useful for feeding the nanocelluloses into the processing equipment in a dry state with limited hornification. Acetylation also contributed to a better dispersion of both nanocelluloses within the PLA matrix, although no clear positive impact on the mechanical properties of the films was observed. Finally, filler loading played an important role in the films' properties by increasing their stiffness while reducing their translucency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Composite biocatalysts (CB) consisting of amylases and Saccharomyces cerevisiae immobilized separately on bacterial nanocellulose (BNC) are used for the process of simultaneous saccharification and fermentation (SSF) of starch (5%, w/v) for bioethanol production. Parameters such as: i) addition of phosphates and/or divalent metal‐ions salts during the co‐immobilization process of the amylases, ii) required co‐immobilization time, iii) fermentation temperature and initial pH of starch, and iv) CB as single or double freeze‐dried are studied. The utilization of double freeze‐dried CB exhibits fermentation efficiency 89.9% and ethanol yield 0.51 g ethanol g−1 starch while the single freeze‐dried CB 81.1% and 0.46 g ethanol g−1 starch, respectively. In the case of double freeze‐dried CB, the fermentation efficiency decreases by only 27.1% in two‐recycling batches, while in the single freeze‐dried one decreases by 51.3%. The application of double freeze‐dried CB can be used for: i) the eco‐friendly biosynthesis of value‐added bioproducts; ii) the promising option for fuel‐grade bioethanol through starchy wastes or foodstuff starchy residues treatment, and iii) the implementation of industrialization. Finally, to simulate an industrial process of one‐step SSF of starch by applying a CB model, a technoeconomic analysis is evaluated, where using BNCs makes the bioprocess cost‐effective and environmentally favorable, simultaneously. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bacterial nanocellulose (BNC) is a biodegradable polysaccharide with unique properties that make it an attractive material for various industrial applications. This study focuses on the strain Komagataeibacter medellinensis ID13488, a strain with the ability to produce high yields of BNC under acidic growth conditions and a promising candidate to use for industrial production of BNC. We conducted a comprehensive investigation into the effects of downstream treatments on the structural and mechanical characteristics of BNC. When compared to alkaline-treated BNC, autoclave-treated BNC exhibited around 78% superior flexibility in average, while it displayed nearly 40% lower stiffness on average. An SEM analysis revealed distinct surface characteristics, indicating differences in cellulose chain compaction. FTIR spectra demonstrated increased hydrogen bonding with prolonged interaction time with alkaline solutions. A thermal analysis showed enhanced thermal stability in alkaline-treated BNC, withstanding temperatures of nearly 300 °C before commencing degradation, compared to autoclaved BNC which starts degradation around 200 °C. These findings provide valuable insights for tailoring BNC properties for specific applications, particularly in industries requiring high purity and specific mechanical characteristics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chicken feathers represent an abundant and sustainable resource that can be harnessed for multiple value-added products. Bioplastic reinforced with bacterial nanocellulose was synthesized using enzymatically digested chicken feathers. A highly efficient keratinolytic bacterium, identified as Bacillus sp. DRS4 through biochemical characterization and 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis, was isolated from deposit soils of Lake Chitu in Ethiopia. Bacillus sp. DRS4 was able to completely degrade chicken feathers within 48 h. Optimization of the physicochemical parameters increased the enzyme yield from Bacillus sp. DRS4 by 30%. The enzyme showed optimal keratinolytic activity at 37 °C and pH 11, hydrolyzing white chicken feathers in 72 h and providing hydrolysates with a total protein content of 251.145 mg/mL. Further, the mechanical and thermal properties of a bioplastic made from hydrolysates and reinforced with bacterial nanocellulose were assessed. The bioplastic exhibited a remarkable tensile strength of 5.769 MPa and reached a melting temperature of 127.5 °C, suggesting that bacterial nanocellulose acts as an effective stabilizer. Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis revealed additional peaks in BNC-reinforced plastic films, indicating a binding interaction that enhanced the bioplastic properties. Overall, Bacillus sp. DRS4 is a potential strain for alkaline keratinase production and a promising candidate for upgrading chicken feathers into high-value-added products.

This study introduces the development of novel, flexible gas sensors operating at room temperature (RT), utilizing a graphene oxide (GO) via the modified Hummers' method and bacterial nanocellulose (BNC) composite to enhance gas detection in industrial and environmental settings. The composite materials, denoted as GO@BNC, were synthesized with varying GO concentrations ranging from 2 % to 30 %, aiming to investigate their responsiveness to gases such as carbon dioxide (CO2), oxygen (O2), acetone (Ac), and ethanol (Eth). The prepared nanomaterials were characterized using FT-IR, Raman, TGA, SEM, and AFM techniques. The bandgap of Go ranges from 4.19, 3.47, 3.16, 2.79, and 2.48 eV for 2, 5, 10, 20, and 30 % GO concentrations, respectively. Notably, the sensor containing wt % of 20 % GO concentration exhibited remarkable sensitivity to Ac, achieving a 270 % increase in resistance at a concentration of 250 μL/L. Conversely, the sensor with a wt % of 30 % GO composition showed superior sensitivity to Eth, with a 420 % signal enhancement under similar conditions. Further modification of GO@BNC through mild reduction resulted in the formation of reduced graphene oxide (rGO@BNC) composites intended to assess the functional groups' impact on sensing performance. Our findings underscore the potential of GO@BNC composites as sustainable and efficient materials for fabricating eco-friendly flexible gas sensors and devices for detecting organic compounds.

Unique properties of bacterial nanocelullose (BNC), such as high purity, water retention, nanofibrillar structure and non-cytotoxicity, allow its application in regenerative medicine, particularly for active wound healing and for skin tissue engineering. However, its biological activity is not fully sufficient to be considered a good cell scaffold. This can be enhanced by physicochemical modifications, particularly plasma treatment. In this work, air-dried (AD) or lyophilized (L) BNC samples were modified in a direct current Ar+ plasma discharge (PM). BNC_AD samples showed higher surface roughness, tensile strength and Young's modulus but a lower swelling ratio than BNC_L samples. The swelling ratio of BNC_L samples further increased after PM. The samples were subjected to six-day in vitro cell culture tests with normal human dermal fibroblasts (NHDFs) or human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs), i.e. cell types important for skin defect healing. NHDFs adhered in higher numbers, by a larger cell spreading area and reached higher cell population densities on PM samples than on unmodified samples. However, in HUVECs, this effect of PM on cell growth was less pronounced or even opposite, especially on mechanically weaker and more swellable BNC_L. At the same time, both cell types preferred mechanically stronger BNC_AD for their adhesion and growth, which was more apparent in HUVECs. The expression of mRNA for markers of cell adhesion and phenotypic maturation in NHDFs (talin, vinculin, CD90) was generally similar on BNC_PM and on tissue culture polystyrene. In HUVECs, the expression of vinculin and PECAM-1 on all BNC samples was lower than on polystyrene, but the expression of KDR (VEGF receptor 2) was higher, especially on BNC_PM. These results indicate cell type-specific differences in the response to various BNC modifications, which must be properly balanced to accommodate various cell types needed for wound healing and skin tissue engineering.

Bacterial nanocellulose (BNC), as a natural polymer, produced in vivo by bacteria and in vitro by the cell-free enzymes system, is comprised of nano-sized fibers. The pristine BNC possesses unique structural, physiological, and biological properties. Its fibrous and porous morphology allows the incorporation of natural and synthetic polymers, nanomaterials, clays, etc., while the presence of free hydroxyl (OH) groups allows its chemical modification with a variety of functional groups to form nanohybrids. These hybrids not only have superior properties to those of pristine BNC but possess additional functionalities imparted by the reinforcement materials. The properties of BNC-based nanohybrids can be tuned at macro, micro, and nano-scales as well as controlled at molecular levels. This review consolidates the current knowledge on the synthesis of β-(1,4)-glucan chains, their excretion and organization into high-ordered nano-sized fibers, as well as functionalization, both at physiological and molecular levels. It comparatively discusses the microbial and cell-free synthesis of cellulose and discusses the potential merits and limitations of each method. It further explores the methods used for developing BNC-based hybrids and discusses the synthesis-structure-properties relationship of BNC-based hybrids to justify their use for targeted biotechnological applications. A large portion of this review is devoted to discussing the recent trends in the preparation of BNC-based nanohybrids for their biotechnological applications, including biomedical (i.e., wound healing, cardiovascular devices, neural tissues, bone and cartilage tissues, dental implants, and drug delivery) and non-biomedical (biosensing, cosmetics, food, bio- and optoelectronics, environment, energy, and additive manufacturing). Finally, it provides an outlook on the future BNC research for human welfare.

Bacterial nanocellulose has been commonly used as a gelling or stabilizing agent in the food industry and as an excipient in pharmacology. However, due to its physical and chemical properties, such as its high degradation temperature and the ease with which it can interact with other molecules, bacterial nanocellulose has been established as a material with great potential for the protection of bioactive compounds. This research shows the capacity of bacterial nanocellulose to establish interactions with B vitamins (B1, B2, B3 and B12) through different sorption isotherms, mainly by means of the BET, GAB and TSS models. First, the degradation of the vitamin B complex, which mostly occurs upon heating, is minimized in the presence of BNC, herein proposed as a thermal stabilizer. Secondly, BNC is shown to bind to micronutrients and act as dietary fiber. BNC acts as a thickening and water-binding agent. The effects of BNC are determined to occur as an encapsulation system that facilitates affinity adsorption in mono- and multilayers. Finally, bacterial nanocellulose was used as an encapsulating agent for the vitamin B complex by spray drying. It is demonstrated that BNC is a very successful new nanomaterial for encapsulation, with a high level of adsorption, and for the protection of hydro-soluble vitamins. BNC has shown great potential to adsorb vitamins B1, B2, B3 and B12 owing to their hydroxyl groups, which are responsible for its water or vitamin sorption. Due to the features of bacterial nanocellulose, it is possible to use it as a raw material in the food industry to protect micronutrients during the thermal process.

Bacterial nanocellulose (BC) has attracted significant attention across a wide array of applications due to its distinctive characteristics. Recently, there has been increasing interest in leveraging waste biomass to improve sustainability in BC biogenesis processes. This study focuses on optimizing the citrus pulp waste (CPW) medium to enhance BC production using Komagataeibacter sucrofermentans. The screening of initial medium pH, yeast extract, CPW sugar and inoculum concentrations was conducted using the Plackett–Burman design, with BC yield (mgDW/gCPW) as the model response. The significant parameters, i.e., CPW sugars and yeast extract concentrations, were optimized using response surface methodology, employing a five-level, two-factor central composite design. The optimized CPW-based growth medium resulted in a final yield of 66.7 ± 5.1 mgDW/gCPW, representing a 14-fold increase compared to non-optimized conditions (4.3 ± 0.4 mgBC/gCPW). Material characterization analysis indicated that the produced BC showed high thermal stability (30% mass retained at 600 °C) and a crystallinity index value of 71%. Additionally, to enhance process sustainability, spent baker’s yeast hydrolysate (BYH) was assessed as a substitute for yeast extract, leading to a final BC titer of 9.3 ± 0.6 g/L.

Due to its flexible properties, bacterial nanocellulose (BNC) has been attracting tremendous attention. In this study, BNC was produced by Acetobacter xylinum ATCC2376 and a local isolate, namely, Bacillus cereus MMS1. The production of BNC was done by utilising pineapple peel extract (PPE) (wastes discarded after cutting the fruit) as the alternative carbon source substituting the commercial D-glucose (control) in Hestrin–Schramm (HS) medium under agitated conditions. This research is aimed to investigate the synthesis of BNC by an isolated bacterial strain from termite's gut using an agro-industrial waste which is the pineapple peel extract. Six bacterial strains, namely, F8, F5, M1, M6, H7 and H11, were screened and identified for potential BNC producer. The selected bacterial strain was identified as Bacillus cereus MMS1 using 16S rRNA nucleotide sequences. Then, the production of BNC was done by B. cereus MMS1 using pineapple peel extract, while A. xylinum ATCC2376 acted as a control. The BNC production in this study was attained at 2% (w/v) glucose concentration, 12 days of incubation period and 150 rpm agitation speed which was 5.83 g/L by A. xylinum ATCC2376 in HS medium using commercial glucose as carbon source. Meanwhile, 4.42 g/L and 2 g/L of BNC were produced by B. cereus MMS1 after 12 days of incubation with an initial concentration of 2% (w/v) using commercial glucose and pineapple peel extract, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study investigated the wound healing potential of Piascledine (an avocado/soybean mixture) alone and in combination with bacterial nanocellulose on rat cutaneous wounds. Full‐thickness excisional wounds (2 cm in diameter) were induced on the backs of 60 Sprague–Dawley rats, divided into four groups, treated with daily topical application of bacterial nanocellulose (BNC), Piascledine 10% (PSD 10%) and Piascledine+bacterial nanocellulose (PSD + BNC) (10 mg/disk) and normal saline (control) for 20 days. Wounds were monitored daily, and at 10, 20 and 30 days post‐injury (DPI), tissue samples were collected for biochemical, histopathological and molecular analyses. Treated rats with PSD and PSD + BNC showed a significant decrease in the wound area compared with other groups. PSD and particularly PSD + BNC modulated inflammation, improved fibroplasia and angiogenesis and scar tissue formation at short term. At the long term, they reduced the scar tissue size and improved collagen fibres alignment, tissue organization and remodelling as well as re‐epithelialization. PSD enhanced matrix metalloproteinase‐3 (MMP‐3) gene expression, collagen and glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) synthesis and decreased tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase‐1 (TIMP‐1) gene expression at various stages of wound healing. The study concluded that topical application of Piascledine, particularly in combination with bacterial nanocellulose, promotes wound healing activity by modulating inflammation, regulating MMP‐3 expression and enhancing collagen and GAGs synthesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phytosynthesized selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) are less toxic than the inorganic salts of selenium and show high antioxidant and antibacterial activity. Chitosan prevents microbial biofilm formation and can also determine microbial biofilm dispersal. Never-dried bacterial nanocellulose (NDBNC) is an efficient carrier of bioactive compounds and a flexible nanofibrillar hydrophilic biopolymer. This study aimed to develop a selenium-enriched hydrogel nanoformulation (Se-HNF) based on NDBNC from kombucha fermentation and fungal chitosan with embedded biogenic SeNPs phytosynthesized by an aqueous extract of sea buckthorn leaves (SbLEx)—SeNPsSb—in order to both disperse gingival dysbiotic biofilm and prevent its development. We determined the total phenolic content and antioxidant activity of SbLEx. Liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC-MS) and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) were used for the identification of polyphenols from SbLEx. SeNPsSb were characterized by transmission electron microscopy–energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (TEM-EDX), dynamic light scattering (DLS), zeta potential, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) in small- and wide-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS and WAXS). The hydrogel nanoformulation with embedded SeNPsSb was characterized by SEM, FTIR, XRD, rheology, mucin binding efficiency, contact angle and interfacial tension measurements. We also assessed the in vitro biocompatibility, antioxidant activity and antimicrobial and antibiofilm potential of SeNPsSb and Se-HNF. TEM, DLS and SAXS evidenced polydisperse SeNPsSb, whereas FTIR highlighted a heterogeneous biocorona with various biocompounds. The contact angle on the polar surface was smaller (52.82 ± 1.23°) than that obtained on the non-polar surface (73.85 ± 0.39°). The interfacial tension was 97.6 ± 0.47 mN/m. The mucin binding efficiency of Se-HNF decreased as the amount of hydrogel decreased, and the SEM analysis showed a relatively compact structure upon mucin contact. FTIR and XRD analyses of Se-HNF evidenced an interaction between BNC and CS through characteristic peak shifting, and the rheological measurements highlighted a pseudoplastic behavior, 0.186 N adhesion force and 0.386 adhesion energy. The results showed a high degree of cytocompatibility and the significant antioxidant and antimicrobial efficiency of SeNPsSb and Se-HNF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Regenerative dentistry (RD) is an innovative strategy for treating necrotic teeth and regenerating damaged dental tissue. Biocompatible materials are pivotal for the advancement of RD, and the rising interest in environmental sustainability drives exploration of sustainable materials for dentistry. Bacterial nanocellulose (BNC) has emerged as a promising eco-friendly option and this study aims to assess BNC's suitability as scaffolds for regenerative dentistry applications. Different in vitro methods have been utilized to characterize the properties of BNC scaffolds in regenerative dentistry, such as scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to analyse surface property and porosity, as well as examining their absorption behaviour using phosphate-buffered saline and bovine serum. Dental pulp stem cell (DPSCs) attachment, viability, and proliferation were evaluated using SEM, live and dead, and tetrazolium reduction assays. The odontogenic potential of the scaffold was evaluated using Alizarin Red staining and qPCR (14 and 21 days). Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images and ethanol displacement method demonstrated the porous architecture of the BNC scaffold with an average porosity of 70.02 ± 4.74% and 50.26 ± 1.43% respectively. The scaffold absorbed 2846.54 ± 258.95 of BSA and 1648.63 ± 50.37% PBS after immersion in solution for 1 h, following pseudo first and second order kinetics. The biocompatibility assay indicated that cell density increased with time and that the scaffold was appropriate for cell adhesion and migration. Moreover, the BNC led to significantly higher mineralization and odontogenic expression compared to the control (BNC in conditioned media). BNC showed fast adsorption of bovine serum, allowed DPSC attachment, migration, and odontogenic differentiation. This suggests its suitability as a biocompatible scaffold for triggering in situ mineralized tissue regeneration for regenerative dental applications. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of wet supercritical CO2 (90 °C and 20 MPa) on the performance of cement paste (PC) modified with bacterial nanocellulose (BNC) was investigated. The pore structure of carbonated cement shows clogging over the outer rim of the samples. In contrast, near the sample core, the characteristic peak of pore size distribution shifted towards smaller pores analyzed by mercury intrusion porosimetry. The effect of the carbonation over time on mechanical properties shows increasing alteration. XRD results show more crystalline phases of hydrated cement in the BNC samples before carbonation. Cement reinforced with BNC shows lower density, a reduction in its porosity, and experiences fewer porosity changes at the cement core. Furthermore, its mechanical performance was less affected by the carbonation process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bacterial nanocellulose (BNC) is a sustainable, renewable, and eco-friendly nanomaterial, which has gained great attentions in both academic and industrial fields. Two bacterial nanocellulose-producing strains (CVV and CVN) were isolated from apple vinegar sources, presenting high 16S rRNA gene sequence similarities (96%–98%) with Komagataeibacter species. The biofilm was characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), revealing the presence of rod-shaped bacteria intricately embedded in the polymeric matrix composed of nanofibers of bacterial nanocellulose. FTIR spectrum and XRD pattern additionally confirmed the characteristic chemical structure associated with this material. The yields and productivities achieved during 10 days of fermentation were compared with Komagataeibacter xylinus ATCC 53524, resulting in low levels of BNC production. However, a remarkable increase in the BNC yield was achieved for CVV (690% increase) and CVN (750% increase) strains at day 6 of the fermentation upon adding 22 mM citrate buffer into the medium. This effect is mainly attributed to the buffering capacity of the modified Yakamana medium, which allowed to maintain pH close to 4.0 until day 6, though in combination with additional factors including stimulation of the gluconeogenesis pathway and citrate assimilation as a carbon source. In addition, the productivities determined for both isolated strains (0.850 and 0.917 g L−1 d−1) compare favorably to previous works, supporting current efforts to improve fermentation performance in static cultures and the feasibility of scaling-up BNC production in these systems.

ABSTRACTFood packaging material is the primary element of the food industry; therefore, its consideration to sustain food quality and food safety is crucial. Several food-grade materials have been utilized for packaging food commodities for a long time. Still, these materials negatively influence safety, shelf life, texture, quality, and flavors of the food commodities. Concurrently, biotechnology introduces various techniques to produce several edible food packaging materials i.e. polysaccharides and protein-based films, intelligent and active packaging, which can preserve the food for a long period and inhibit the entry of biotic and abiotic components into the food. Various materials i.e. nisin, chitosan, cactus/mucilage, and bacterial nanocellulose, are being utilized to produce various kinds of edible packaging, including films, coatings, foams, with various kinds of edible active and intelligent packaging characteristics by biotechnological tools. The packaging material prepared by biotechnological applications is widely adopted and utilized in various food processing and preservation industries due to its higher safety levels and more nutritional components for consumption. The edible packaging material is currently utilized only for solid and semisolid processed products. However, there is an urgency to develop edible packaging material for liquid commodities such as products of the dairy and beverages industry by utilizing biotechnological techniques.

The present study aimed to create a more sustainable and controlled delivery system based on natural biopolymer bacterial nanocellulose (BNC) and bacterial natural product actinomycin (Act), with the applicative potential in the biomedical field. In order to provide improved interaction between BNC and the active compound, and thus to modulate the release kinetics, the TEMPO oxidation of BNC support was carried out. A mix of actinomycins from bacterial fermentation (ActX) were used as natural antimicrobial agents with an established bioactivity profile and clinical use. BNC and TEMPO-oxidized BNC films with incorporated active compounds were obtained and analyzed by FTIR, SEM, XPS, and XRD. The ActX release profiles were determined in phosphate-buffer solution, PBS, at 37 °C over time. FTIR analysis confirmed the improved incorporation and efficiency of ActX adsorption on oxidized BNC due to the availability of more active sites provided by oxidation. SEM analysis indicated the incorporation of ActX into the less-dense morphology of the TEMPO-oxidized BNC in comparison to pure BNC. The release kinetics of ActX were significantly affected by the BNC structure, and the activated BNC sample indicated the sustained release of active compounds over time, corresponding to the Fickian diffusion mechanism. Antimicrobial tests using Staphylococcus aureus NCTC 6571 confirmed the potency of this BNC-based system for biomedical applications, taking advantage of the capacity of modified BNC to control and modulate the release of bioactive compounds.

Starch-based pH-sensing films with bacterial nanocellulose (BNC) and red cabbage anthocyanins (RCA) as active components were investigated in this research. Their structural, physical, surface and colorimetric properties were analyzed, mainly as a function of BNC concentration. The aim of the research was to relate the changes in the intermolecular interactions between the components of the films (starch, anthocyanins and BNC) to the physical, surface and colorimetric properties that are important for the primary intended application of the produced films as pH indicators in smart packaging. The results showed that maize starch (MS) was more suitable as a matrix for the stabilization of anthocyanins compared to potato starch (PS). PS-based films showed a lower value of water contact angle than MS-based films, indicating stronger hydrophilicity. The swelling behavior results indicate that the concentrations of BNC in MS-based films (cca 10%) and the concentration of about 50% BNC in PS-based films are required if satisfactory properties of the indicator in terms of stability in a wet environment are to be achieved. The surface free energy results of PS-based films with BNC were between 62 and 68 mJ/m2 and with BNC and RCA between 64 and 68 mJ/m2; for MS-based films, the value was about 65 mJ/m2 for all samples with BNC and about 68 mJ/m2 for all samples with BNC and RCA. The visual color changes after immersion in different buffer solutions (pH 2.0–10.5) showed a gradual transition from red/pink to purple, blue and green for the observed samples. Films immersed in different buffers showed lower values of 2 to 10 lightness points (CIE L*) for PS-based films and 10 to 30 lightness points for MS-based films after the addition of BNC. The results of this research can make an important contribution to defining the influence of intermolecular interactions and structural changes on the physical, surface and colorimetric properties of bio-based pH indicators used in smart packaging applications.

The research presented here is an attempt to develop an innovative and environmentally friendly material based on bacterial nanocellulose (BNC), which will be able to replace both animal skins and synthetic polymer products. Bacterial nanocellulose becomes stiff and brittle when dried, so attempts have been made to plasticise this material so that BNC can be used in industry. The research presented here focuses on the ecological modification of bacterial nanocellulose with vegetable oils such as rapeseed oil, linseed oil, and grape seed oil. The effect of compatibilisers of a natural origin on the plasticisation process of BNC, such as chlorophyll, curcumin, and L-glutamine, was also evaluated. BNC samples were modified with rapeseed, linseed, and grapeseed oils, as well as mixtures of each of these oils with the previously mentioned additives. The modification was carried out by passing the oil, or oil mixture, through the BNC using vacuum filtration, where the BNC acted as a filter. The following tests were performed to determine the effect of the modification on the BNC: FTIR spectroscopic analysis, contact angle measurements, and static mechanical analysis. As a result of the modification, the BNC was plasticised. Rapeseed oil proved to be the best for this purpose, with the help of which a material with good strength and elasticity was obtained.

Nanocelluloses are unique biomaterials with combined potential characteristics of cellulose with added features of nanomaterials. Cellulose is one of the most abundantly available natural biopolymers with a wide range of applications in the Pharmaceutical, Biomedical and Agricultural fields. Cellulose from natural sources can be modified by acid hydrolysis or by enzymatic treatment to develop nanostructured cellulose. Based on the condition and method of processing cellulose, nanostructured forms of cellulose can be categorised as nanocrystals and nanofibers. Nanostructured cellulose has created much interest among formulation scientists due to its renewability, biocompatibility, recyclability, least toxicity, better mechanical properties and tunable surface characteristics. Though various methods have been discovered for developing nanocellulose, it still possesses formidable challenges in extraction and modification.

This study investigates powdered cellulose materials, particularly nanocellulose derived from plant and bacterial sources. The nanocellulose was generated by hydrolyzing bleached sulphate softwood and hardwood pulp samples with strong acids. The original materials are present in the product lines of leading Russian pulp and paper companies. The bacterial cellulose was produced under laboratory conditions from Medusomyces gisevii. The dimensional parameters of the nanocellulose samples were evaluated using electron microscopy, and the degree of polymerization was measured by determining the viscosity of the cellulose solutions in cadoxene. The bleached softwood pulp had a nanocellulose particle length of 80–200 nm, a particle diameter of 80–100 nm, and a degree of polymerization of 60. The bleached hardwood pulp had a particle length of 80–150 nm, a particle diameter of 70–100 nm, and a degree of polymerization of 50. The bacterial nanocellulose had a particle length of 120–250 nm, a particle diameter of 70–120 nm, and a degree of polymerization of 110. Suspensions of various concentrations (from 1 to 10 %) were prepared from nanocellulose samples, which were subsequently used as reinforcing additives in cardboard samples. The additive was applied to the surface in one or two layers. Additives of nanocellulose preparations reduced the breaking length (from 9.6 to 40.4 %) along with an increase in cardboard density (from 6.3 to 23.8 %), tensile rigidity (from 14.0 to 25.0 %) and bursting strength (up to 31.9 %). The best results were obtained by applying a nanocellulose suspension of bleached softwood pulp to the board surface in two layers: a 9.6 % decrease in breaking length was observed with an increase in density of 23.8 %, tensile rigidity of 25.0 %, and bursting resistance of 31.9 % relative to the control sample. Therefore, the study showed the possibility of using nanocellulose suspensions derived from plants and bacterial sources by acid hydrolysis for the surface treatment of cardboard. For citation: Toptunov Е.А., Sevastyanova Yu.V., Vashukova K.S. Surface Treatment of Cardboard with Plant and Bacterial Derived Nanocellulose Suspensions. Lesnoy Zhurnal = Russian Forestry Journal, 2023, no. 3, pp. 162–172. (In Russ.). https://doi.org/10.37482/0536-1036-2023-3-162-172

Nanocellulose has various outstanding properties and great potential for replacing petrochemical products. The utilization of lignocellulose to produce nanocellulose is of great significance to the sustainable development of the economy and society. However, the direct extraction of nanocellulose from lignocellulose by chemical method is challenged by toxic chemicals utilization, energy and time consumption, and waste water generation. Therefore, this paper addressed the conversion of lignocellulosic biomass into bacterial nanocellulose (BNC) by the biological method. Moreover, this article highlights the recent advances in potentials and challenges of lignocellulosic biomass for BNC production through the bioconversion process, including biomass pretreatment, enzymatic hydrolysis, glucose and xylose fermentation, GA accumulation, and inhibitor tolerant. The development in metabolic and evolutionary engineering to enhance the production capacity of BNC-producing strain is also discussed. It is expected to provide guidance on the effective bioproduction of nanocellulose from lignocellulosic biomass.