Formation of magnetite by bacteria and its application

Investigation of pharmacokinetics and immunogenicity of magnetosomes

Magnetosomes are iron oxide or iron sulphide nano-sized particles surrounded by a lipid bilayer synthesised by a group of bacteria known as magnetotactic bacteria (MTB). Magnetosomes have become a promising candidate for biomedical applications and could be potentially used as a drug-carrier. However, pharmacokinetics and immunogenicity of the magnetosomes have not been understood yet which preclude its clinical applications. Herein, we investigated the pharmacokinetics of magnetosomes including Absorption, Distribution, Metabolism, and Elimination (ADME) along with its immunogenicity in vitro and in vivo. The magnetosomes were conjugated with fluorescein isothiocyanate (Mag-FITC) and their conjugation was confirmed through fluorescence microscopy and its absorption in HeLa cell lines was evaluated using flow cytometry analysis. The results revealed a maximum cell uptake of 97% at 200 µg/mL concentration. Further, the biodistribution of Mag-FITC was investigated in vivo by a bioimaging system using BALB/c mice as a subject at different time intervals. The Mag-FITC neither induced death nor physical distress and the same was eliminated post 36 h of injection with meagre intensities left behind. The metabolism and elimination analysis were assessed to detect the iron overload which revealed that magnetosomes were entirely metabolised within 48-h interval. Furthermore, the histopathology and serum analysis reveal no histological damage with the absence of any abnormal biochemical parameters. The results support our study that magnetosomes were completely removed from the blood circulation within 48-h time interval. Moreover, the immunogenicity analysis has shown that magnetosomes do not induce any inflammation as indicated by reduced peaks of immune markers such as IL 1β, IL 2, IL 6, IL8, IFN γ, and TNF α estimated through Indirect ELISA. The normal behaviour of animals with the absence of acute or chronic toxicities in any organs declares that magnetosomes are safe to be injected. This shows that magnetosomes are benign for biological systems enrouting towards beneficial biomedical applications. Therefore, this study will advance the understanding and application of magnetosomes for clinical purposes.

Guidelines derived from biomineralized tissues for design and construction of high-performance biomimetic materials: from weak to strong

Living organisms in nature have undergone continuous evolution over billions of years, resulting in the formation of high-performance fracture-resistant biomineralized tissues such as bones and teeth to fulfill mechanical and biological functions, despite the fact that most inorganic biominerals that constitute biomineralized tissues are weak and brittle. During the long-period evolution process, nature has evolved a number of highly effective and smart strategies to design chemical compositions and structures of biomineralized tissues to enable superior properties and to adapt to surrounding environments. Most biomineralized tissues have hierarchically ordered structures consisting of very small building blocks on the nanometer scale (nanoparticles, nanofibers or nanoflakes) to reduce the inherent weaknesses and brittleness of corresponding inorganic biominerals, to prevent crack initiation and propagation, and to allow high defect tolerance. The bioinspired principles derived from biomineralized tissues are indispensable for designing and constructing high-performance biomimetic materials. In recent years, a large number of high-performance biomimetic materials have been prepared based on these bioinspired principles with a large volume of literature covering this topic. Therefore, a timely and comprehensive review on this hot topic is highly important and contributes to the future development of this rapidly evolving research field. This review article aims to be comprehensive, authoritative, and critical with wide general interest to the science community, summarizing recent advances in revealing the formation processes, composition, and structures of biomineralized tissues, providing in-depth insights into guidelines derived from biomineralized tissues for the design and construction of high-performance biomimetic materials, and discussing recent progress, current research trends, key problems, future main research directions and challenges, and future perspectives in this exciting and rapidly evolving research field.

Nanosilver Embedded in a Magnetosome Nanoflower to Enhance Antibacterial Activity for Wound Dressing Applications

The natural biofilm on magnetosomes obtained from the biomineralization of magnetotactic bacteria, which replaced a complex chemical modification process on the surface of Fe3O4, can be used as the organic component and copper(II) ions as the inorganic component to form organic-inorganic nanoflowers in phosphate systems. Characterization by scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and vibrating-sample magnetometry proved that magnetic nanoflowers loaded with silver ions (Ag/MN-Cu×NFs) were successfully fabricated. In vitro antibacterial experiments demonstrated that Ag/MN-Cu×NFs displayed strong antibacterial effects against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus, with minimum inhibitory concentrations of 10 and 80 μg/mL, respectively. Ag/MN-Cu×NFs, which possessed good biocompatibility as confirmed by cytotoxicity and hemolysis tests, were able to promote wound healing in the face of bacterial infection in vivo without causing toxicity to major organs. Therefore, magnetosomes as a natural carrier have great application potential in the synthesis of multifunctional magnetosomes by direct hybridization with a target substance.

Developments and application of chitosan-based adsorbents for wastewater treatments

Water quality is deteriorating continuously as increasing levels of toxic inorganic and organic contaminants mostly discharging into the aquatic environment. Removal of such pollutants from the water system is an emerging research area. During the past few years use of biodegradable and biocompatible natural additives has attracted considerable attention to alleviate pollutants from wastewater. The chitosan and its composites emerged as a promising adsorbents due to their low price, abundance, amino, and hydroxyl groups, as well as their potential to remove various toxins from wastewater. However, a few challenges associated with its practical use include lack of selectivity, low mechanical strength, and solubility in acidic medium. Therefore, several approaches for modification have been explored to improve the physicochemical properties of chitosan for wastewater treatment. Chitosan nanocomposites found effective for the removal of metals, pharmaceuticals, pesticides, microplastics from the wastewaters. Nanoparticle doped with chitosan in the form of nano-biocomposites has recently gained much attention and proven a successful tool for water purification. Hence, applying chitosan-based adsorbents with numerous modifications is a cutting-edge approach to eliminating toxic pollutants from aquatic systems with the global aim of making potable water available worldwide. This review presents an overview of distinct materials and methods for developing novel chitosan-based nanocomposites for wastewater treatment.

Poly(acrylic acid-co-acrylamide)/Polyacrylamide pIPNs/Magnetite Composite Hydrogels: Synthesis and Characterization

Novel composite hydrogels based on poly(acrylic acid-co-acrylamide)/polyacrylamide pseudo-interpenetrating polymer networks (pIPNs) and magnetite were prepared via in situ precipitation of Fe³⁺/Fe²⁺ ions within the hydrogel structure. The magnetite formation was confirmed by X-ray diffraction, and the size of the magnetite crystallites was shown to depend on the hydrogel composition: the crystallinity of the magnetite particles increased in line with PAAM content within the composition of the pIPNs. The Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy revealed an interaction between the hydrogel matrix, via the carboxylic groups of polyacrylic acid, and Fe ions, which strongly influenced the formation of the magnetite articles. The composites' thermal properties, examined using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), show an increase in the glass transition temperature of the obtained composites, which depends on the PAA/PAAM copolymer ratio in the pIPNs' composition. Moreover, the composite hydrogels exhibit pH and ionic strength responsiveness as well as superparamagnetic properties. The study revealed the potential of pIPNs as matrices for controlled inorganic particle deposition as a viable method for the production of polymer nanocomposites.

Identifying magnetosome-associated genes in the extended CtrA regulon in Magnetospirillum magneticum AMB-1 using a combinational approach

Magnetotactic bacteria (MTB) are worth studying because of magnetosome biomineralization. Magnetosome biogenesis in MTB is controlled by multiple genes known as magnetosome-associated genes. Recent advances in bioinformatics provide a unique opportunity for studying functions of magnetosome-associated genes and networks that they are involved in. Furthermore, various types of bioinformatics analyses can also help identify genes associated with magnetosome biogenesis. To predict novel magnetosome-associated genes in the extended CtrA regulon, we analyzed expression data of Magnetospirillum magneticum AMB-1 in the GSE35625 dataset in NCBI GEO. We identified 10 potential magnetosome-associated genes using a combinational approach of differential expression analysis, Gene ontology and Kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes pathway enrichment analysis, protein-protein interaction network analysis and weighted gene co-expression network analysis. Meanwhile, we also discovered and compared two co-expression modules that most known magnetosome-associated genes belong to. Our comparison indicated the importance of energy on regulating co-expression module structures for magnetosome biogenesis. At the last stage of our research, we predicted at least four real magnetosome-associated genes out of 10 potential genes, based on a comparison of evolutionary trees between known and potential magnetosome-associated genes. Because of the discovery of common subtrees that the stressed species are enriched in, we proposed a hypothesis that multiple types of environmental stress can trigger magnetosome evolution in different waters, and therefore its evolution can recur at different times in various locations on earth. Overall, our research provides useful information for identifying new MTB species and understanding magnetosome biogenesis.

Gradient Magnetic Field Accelerates Division of E. coli Nissle 1917

Cell-cycle progression is regulated by numerous intricate endogenous mechanisms, among which intracellular forces and protein motors are central players. Although it seems unlikely that it is possible to speed up this molecular machinery by applying tiny external forces to the cell, we show that magnetic forcing of magnetosensitive bacteria reduces the duration of the mitotic phase. In such bacteria, the coupling of the cell cycle to the splitting of chains of biogenic magnetic nanoparticles (BMNs) provides a biological realization of such forcing. Using a static gradient magnetic field of a special spatial configuration, in probiotic bacteria E. coli Nissle 1917, we shortened the duration of the mitotic phase and thereby accelerated cell division. Thus, focused magnetic gradient forces exerted on the BMN chains allowed us to intervene in the processes of division and growth of bacteria. The proposed magnetic-based cell division regulation strategy can improve the efficiency of microbial cell factories and medical applications of magnetosensitive bacteria.

Exploring Microbial-Based Green Nanobiotechnology for Wastewater Remediation: A Sustainable Strategy

Water scarcity due to contamination of water resources with different inorganic and organic contaminants is one of the foremost global concerns. It is due to rapid industrialization, fast urbanization, and the low efficiency of traditional wastewater treatment strategies. Conventional water treatment strategies, including chemical precipitation, membrane filtration, coagulation, ion exchange, solvent extraction, adsorption, and photolysis, are based on adopting various nanomaterials (NMs) with a high surface area, including carbon NMs, polymers, metals-based, and metal oxides. However, significant bottlenecks are toxicity, cost, secondary contamination, size and space constraints, energy efficiency, prolonged time consumption, output efficiency, and scalability. On the contrary, green NMs fabricated using microorganisms emerge as cost-effective, eco-friendly, sustainable, safe, and efficient substitutes for these traditional strategies. This review summarizes the state-of-the-art microbial-assisted green NMs and strategies including microbial cells, magnetotactic bacteria (MTB), bio-augmentation and integrated bioreactors for removing an extensive range of water contaminants addressing the challenges associated with traditional strategies. Furthermore, a comparative analysis of the efficacies of microbe-assisted green NM-based water remediation strategy with the traditional practices in light of crucial factors like reusability, regeneration, removal efficiency, and adsorption capacity has been presented. The associated challenges, their alternate solutions, and the cutting-edge prospects of microbial-assisted green nanobiotechnology with the integration of advanced tools including internet-of-nano-things, cloud computing, and artificial intelligence have been discussed. This review opens a new window to assist future research dedicated to sustainable and green nanobiotechnology-based strategies for environmental remediation applications.

Biosensors and Drug Delivery in Oncotheranostics Using Inorganic Synthetic and Biogenic Magnetic Nanoparticles

Magnetic nanocarriers have attracted attention in translational oncology due to their ability to be employed both for tumor diagnostics and therapy. This review summarizes data on applications of synthetic and biogenic magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) in oncological theranostics and related areas. The basics of both types of MNPs including synthesis approaches, structure, and physicochemical properties are discussed. The properties of synthetic MNPs and biogenic MNPs are compared with regard to their antitumor therapeutic efficiency, diagnostic potential, biocompatibility, and cellular toxicity. The comparative analysis demonstrates that both synthetic and biogenic MNPs could be efficiently used for cancer theranostics, including biosensorics and drug delivery. At the same time, reduced toxicity of biogenic particles was noted, which makes them advantageous for in vivo applications, such as drug delivery, or MRI imaging of tumors. Adaptability to surface modification based on natural biochemical processes is also noted, as well as good compatibility with tumor cells and proliferation in them. Advances in the bionanotechnology field should lead to the implementation of MNPs in clinical trials.

Biomineralization and biotechnological applications of bacterial magnetosomes

Magnetosomes intracellularly biomineralized by Magnetotactic bacteria (MTB) are membrane-enveloped nanoparticles of the magnetic minerals magnetite (Fe₃O₄) or greigite (Fe₃S₄). MTB thrive in oxic-anoxic interface and exhibit magnetotaxis due to the presence of magnetosomes. Because of the unique characteristic and bionavigation inspiration of magnetosomes, MTB has been a subject of study focused on by biologists, medical pharmacologists, geologists, and physicists since the discovery. We herein first briefly review the features of MTB and magnetosomes. The recent insights into the process and mechanism for magnetosome biomineralization including iron uptake, magnetosome membrane invagination, iron mineralization and magnetosome chain assembly are summarized in detail. Additionally, the current research progress in biotechnological applications of magnetosomes is also elucidated, such as drug delivery, MRI image contrast, magnetic hyperthermia, wastewater treatment, and cell separation. This review would expand our understanding of biomineralization and biotechnological applications of bacterial magnetosomes.

Biomanufacturing Biotinylated Magnetic Nanomaterial via Construction and Fermentation of Genetically Engineered Magnetotactic Bacteria

Biosynthesis provides a critical way to deal with global sustainability issues and has recently drawn increased attention. However, modifying biosynthesized magnetic nanoparticles by extraction is challenging, limiting its applications. Magnetotactic bacteria (MTB) synthesize single-domain magnetite nanocrystals in their organelles, magnetosomes (BMPs), which are excellent biomaterials that can be biologically modified by genetic engineering. Therefore, this study successfully constructed in vivo biotinylated BMPs in the MTB Magnetospirillum gryphiswaldense by fusing biotin carboxyl carrier protein (BCCP) with membrane protein MamF of BMPs. The engineered strain (MSR−∆F−BF) grew well and synthesized small-sized (20 ± 4.5 nm) BMPs and were cultured in a 42 L fermenter; the yield (dry weight) of cells and BMPs reached 8.14 g/L and 134.44 mg/L, respectively, approximately three-fold more than previously reported engineered strains and BMPs. The genetically engineered BMPs (BMP−∆F−BF) were successfully linked with streptavidin or streptavidin-labelled horseradish peroxidase and displayed better storage stability compared with chemically constructed biotinylated BMPs. This study systematically demonstrated the biosynthesis of engineered magnetic nanoparticles, including its construction, characterization, and production and detection based on MTB. Our findings provide insights into biomanufacturing multiple functional magnetic nanomaterials.

Chain-Like Structures of Biogenic and Nonbiogenic Magnetic Nanoparticles in Vascular Tissues

In this paper, slices of organs from various organisms (animals, plants, fungi) were investigated by using atomic force microscopy and magnetic force microscopy to identify common features of localization of both biogenic and nonbiogenic magnetic nanoparticles. It was revealed that both biogenic and nonbiogenic magnetic nanoparticles are localized in the form of chains of separate nanoparticles or chains of conglomerates of nanoparticles in the walls of the capillaries of animals and the walls of the conducting tissue of plants and fungi. Both biogenic and nonbiogenic magnetic nanoparticles are embedded as a part of the transport system in multicellular organisms. In connection with this, a new idea of the function of biogenic magnetic nanoparticles is discussed, that the chains of biogenic magnetic nanoparticles and chains of conglomerates of biogenic magnetic nanoparticles represent ferrimagnetic organelles of a specific purpose. Besides, magnetic dipole-dipole interaction of biogenic magnetic nanoparticles with magnetically labeled drugs or contrast agents for magnetic resonance imaging should be considered when designing the drug delivery and other medical systems because biogenic magnetic nanoparticles in capillary walls will serve as the trapping centers for the artificial magnetic nanoparticles. The aggregates of both artificial and biogenic magnetic nanoparticles can be formed, contributing to the risk of vascular occlusion. Bioelectromagnetics. 43:119-143, 2022. © 2021 Bioelectromagnetics Society.

Effects of DC Magnetic Fields on Magnetoliposomes

The potential use of magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) in biomedicine as magnetic resonance, drug delivery, imagenology, hyperthermia, biosensors, and biological separation has been studied in different laboratories. One of the challenges on MNP elaboration for biological applications is the size, biocompatibility, heat efficiency, stabilization in physiological conditions, and surface coating. Magnetoliposome (ML), a lipid bilayer of phospholipids encapsulating MNPs, is a system used to reduce toxicity. Encapsulated MNPs can be used as a potential drug and a gene delivery system, and in the presence of magnetic fields, MLs can be accumulated in a target tissue by a strong gradient magnetic field. Here, we present a study of the effects of DC magnetic fields on encapsulated MNPs inside liposomes. Despite their widespread applications in biotechnology and environmental, biomedical, and materials science, the effects of magnetic fields on MLs are unclear. We use a modified coprecipitation method to synthesize superparamagnetic nanoparticles (SNPs) in aqueous solutions. The SNPs are encapsulated inside phospholipid liposomes to study the interaction between phospholipids and SNPs. Material characterization of SNPs reveals round-shaped nanoparticles with an average size of 12 nm, mainly magnetite. MLs were prepared by the rehydration method. After formation, we found two types of MLs: one type is tense with SNPs encapsulated and the other is a floppy vesicle that does not show the presence of SNPs. To study the response of MLs to an applied DC magnetic field, we used a homemade chamber. Digitalized images show encapsulated SNPs assembled in chain formation when a DC magnetic field is applied. When the magnetic field is switched off, it completely disperses SNPs. Floppy MLs deform along the direction of the external applied magnetic field. Solving the relevant magnetostatic equations, we present a theoretical model to explain the ML deformations by analyzing the forces exerted by the magnetic field over the surface of the spheroidal liposome. Tangential magnetic forces acting on the ML surface result in a press force deforming MLs. The type of deformations will depend on the magnetic properties of the mediums inside and outside the MLs. The model predicts a coexistence region of oblate-prolate deformation in the zone where χ = 1. We can understand the chain formation in terms of a dipole-dipole interaction of SNP.

Detection of white spot syndrome virus in seafood samples using a magnetosome-based impedimetric biosensor

White spot syndrome virus (WSSV) is a significant threat to the aquaculture sector, causing mortality among crabs and shrimps. Currently available diagnostic tests for WSSV are not rapid or cost-effective, and a new detection method is therefore needed. This study demonstrates the development of a biosensor by functionalization of magnetosomes with VP28-specific antibodies to detect WSSV in seafood. The magnetosomes (1 and 2 mg/ml) were conjugated with VP28 antibody (0.025-10 ng/µl), as confirmed by spectroscopy. The magnetosome-antibody conjugate was used to detect the VP28 antigen. The binding of antigen to the magnetosome-antibody complex resulted in a change in absorbance. The magnetosome-antibody-antigen complex was then concentrated and brought near a screen-printed carbon electrode by applying an external magnetic field, and the antigen concentration was determined using impedance measurements. The VP28 antigen (0.025 ng/µl) bound more efficiently to the magnetosome-VP28 antibody complex (0.025 ng/µl) than to the VP28 antibody (0.1 ng/µl) alone. The same assay was repeated to detect the VP28 antigen (0.01 ng/µl) in WSSV-infected seafood samples using the magnetosome-VP28 antibody complex (0.025 ng/µl). The WSSV in the seafood sample was also drawn toward the electrode due to the action of magnetosomes controlled by the external magnetic field and detected using impedance measurement. The presence of WSSV in seafood samples was verified by Western blot and RT-PCR. Cross-reactivity assays with other viruses confirmed the specificity of the magnetosome-based biosensor. The results indicate that the use of the magnetosome-based biosensor is a sensitive, specific, and rapid way to detect WSSV in seafood samples.

Magnetosome membrane engineering to improve G protein-coupled receptor activities in the magnetosome display system

Magnetotactic bacterium, Magnetospirillum magneticum, produces biogenic magnetic nanoparticles termed magnetosomes, which are primarily composed of a magnetite core and a surrounding lipid bilayer membrane. We have fabricated human transmembrane protein-magnetosome complexes by genetic engineering with embedding the transmembrane proteins of interest, in particular G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), in the magnetosome membrane. The magnetosomes provide a promising platform for high throughput ligand screening towards drug discovery, and this is a critical advantage of the magnetosome display system beyond conventional membrane platforms such as liposomes and lipid nano-discs. However, the human GPCRs expressed on the magnetosomes were not fully functionalized in bacterial membranes the most probably due to the lack of essential phospholipids such as phosphatidylcholine (PC) for GPCR functionalization. To overcome this issue, we expressed two types of PC-producing enzymes, phosphatidylcholine synthase (PCS) and phosphatidylethanolamine N-methyltransferase (PMT) in M. magneticum. As a result, generation and incorporation of PC in cell- and magnetosome-membranes were demonstrated. To the best of our knowledge, M. magneticum is the second bacterial species which had the PC-incorporated lipid membrane by genetic engineering. Subsequently, a GPCR, thyroid-stimulating hormone receptor (TSHR) and PCS were simultaneously expressed. We found that PC in the magnetosome membrane assisted the binding of TSHR and its ligand, indicating that the genetic approach demonstrated in this study is useful to enhance the function of the GPCRs displayed on the magnetosomes.

Microbiologically-Synthesized Nanoparticles and Their Role in Silencing the Biofilm Signaling Cascade

The emergence of bacterial resistance to antibiotics has led to the search for alternate antimicrobial treatment strategies. Engineered nanoparticles (NPs) for efficient penetration into a living system have become more common in the world of health and hygiene. The use of microbial enzymes/proteins as a potential reducing agent for synthesizing NPs has increased rapidly in comparison to physical and chemical methods. It is a fast, environmentally safe, and cost-effective approach. Among the biogenic sources, fungi and bacteria are preferred not only for their ability to produce a higher titer of reductase enzyme to convert the ionic forms into their nano forms, but also for their convenience in cultivating and regulating the size and morphology of the synthesized NPs, which can effectively reduce the cost for large-scale manufacturing. Effective penetration through exopolysaccharides of a biofilm matrix enables the NPs to inhibit the bacterial growth. Biofilm is the consortia of sessile groups of microbial cells that are able to adhere to biotic and abiotic surfaces with the help extracellular polymeric substances and glycocalyx. These biofilms cause various chronic diseases and lead to biofouling on medical devices and implants. The NPs penetrate the biofilm and affect the quorum-sensing gene cascades and thereby hamper the cell-to-cell communication mechanism, which inhibits biofilm synthesis. This review focuses on the microbial nano-techniques that were used to produce various metallic and non-metallic nanoparticles and their "signal jamming effects" to inhibit biofilm formation. Detailed analysis and discussion is given to their interactions with various types of signal molecules and the genes responsible for the development of biofilm.

A rapid and simple preparation of amphotericin B-loaded bacterial magnetite nanoparticles

Three-dimensional representation of amphotericin B molecules bound to magnetosomes derived from Magnetovibrio blakemorei strain MV-1T. Drug molecules are electrostatically adsorbed onto nanoparticles coated with positively charged poly-l-lysine.

Engineering E. coli for Magnetic Control and the Spatial Localization of Functions

The fast-developing field of synthetic biology enables broad applications of programmed microorganisms including the development of whole-cell biosensors, delivery vehicles for therapeutics, or diagnostic agents. However, the lack of spatial control required for localizing microbial functions could limit their use and induce their dilution leading to ineffective action or dissemination. To overcome this limitation, the integration of magnetic properties into living systems enables a contact-less and orthogonal method for spatiotemporal control. Here, we generated a magnetic-sensing Escherichia coli by driving the formation of iron-rich bodies into bacteria. We found that these bacteria could be spatially controlled by magnetic forces and sustained cell growth and division, by transmitting asymmetrically their magnetic properties to one daughter cell. We combined the spatial control of bacteria with genetically encoded-adhesion properties to achieve the magnetic capture of specific target bacteria as well as the spatial modulation of human cell invasions.

Development of magnetosomes-based biosensor for the detection of Listeria monocytogenes from food sample

Listeriosis through contaminated food is one of the leading causes of premature deaths in pregnant women and new born babies. Here, the authors have developed a magnetosomes-based biosensor for the rapid, sensitive, specific and cost-effective detection of Listeria monocytogenes from food sample. Magnetosomes were extracted from Magnetospirillum sp. RJS1 and then directly bound to anti-Listeriolysin antibody (0.25-1 µg/ml), confirmed in spectroscopy. Listeriolysin (LLO) protein (0.01-7 µg/ml) was optimised in enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Magnetosomes was conjugated with LLO antibody (0.25 µg/ml) in optimum concentration to detect LLO protein (0.01 µg/ml). Magnetosomes-LLO antibody complex was 25% cost effective. The magnetosomes-LLO antibody complex was directly stabilised on screen printed electrode using external magnet. The significant increase in resistance (R_CT value) on the electrode surface with increase in concentration of LLO protein was confirmed in impedance spectroscopy. The L. monocytogenes contaminated milk and water sample were processed and extracted LLO protein was detected in the biosensor. The specificity of the biosensor was confirmed in cross-reactivity assay with other food pathogens. The detection limit of 10¹ Cfu/ml in both water and milk sample manifests the sensitive nature of the biosensor. The capture efficiency and field emission scanning electron microscopy confirmed positive interaction of Listeria cells with magnetosomes-antibody complex.

Improved methods for mass production of magnetosomes and applications: a review

Magnetotactic bacteria have the unique ability to synthesize magnetosomes (nano-sized magnetite or greigite crystals arranged in chain-like structures) in a variety of shapes and sizes. The chain alignment of magnetosomes enables magnetotactic bacteria to sense and orient themselves along geomagnetic fields. There is steadily increasing demand for magnetosomes in the areas of biotechnology, biomedicine, and environmental protection. Practical difficulties in cultivating magnetotactic bacteria and achieving consistent, high-yield magnetosome production under artificial environmental conditions have presented an obstacle to successful development of magnetosome applications in commercial areas. Here, we review information on magnetosome biosynthesis and strategies for enhancement of bacterial cell growth and magnetosome formation, and implications for improvement of magnetosome yield on a laboratory scale and mass-production (commercial or industrial) scale.

Applications of magnetotactic bacteria and magnetosome for cancer treatment: A review emphasizing on practical and mechanistic aspects

Magnetotactic bacteria (MTB) synthesize iron oxide (Fe₃O₄) nanoparticles (NPs), called magnetosomes, with large sizes leading to a ferrimagnetic behavior and a stable magnetic moment at physiological temperature, a chain structure that prevents NP aggregation and promotes uniform NP distribution, and a mineral core of magnetite/maghemite composition, which can be stabilized by an organic coating. Such properties can favor magnetosome administration to humans under certain optimized non-toxic conditions of fabrication. In this review, I describe the fabrication methods, physico-chemical properties, and the anti-tumor activity of different types of MTB/magnetosome preparations, highlighting the bio-compatibility and excellent anti-tumor activity of purified non-pyrogenic magnetosome minerals stabilized by a synthetic chemical compound.

Magnetosome-anti-Salmonella antibody complex based biosensor for the detection of Salmonella typhimurium

Epidemic Salmonellosis contracted through the consumption of contaminated food substances is a global concern. Thus, simple and effective diagnostic methods are needed. Magnetosome-based biosensors are gaining attention because of their promising features. Here, we developed a biosensor employing a magnetosome-anti-Salmonella antibody complex to detect lipopolysaccharide (somatic "O" antigen) and Salmonella typhimurium in real samples. Magnetosome was extracted from Magnetospirillum sp. RJS1 and characterized by microscopy. The magnetosome samples (1 and 2 mg/mL) were directly conjugated to anti-Salmonella antibody (0.8-200 μg/mL) and confirmed by spectroscopy and zeta potential. The concentrations of magnetosome, antibody and lipopolysaccharide were optimized by ELISA. The 2 mg/mL-0.8 μg/mL magnetosome-antibody complex was optimal for detecting lipopolysaccharide (0.001 μg/mL). Our assay is a cost-effective (60%) and sensitive (50%) method in detection of lipopolysaccharide. The optimized magnetosome-antibody complex was applied to an electrode surface and stabilized using an external magnetic field. Increased resistance confirmed the detection of lipopolysaccharide (at 0.001-0.1 μg/mL) using impedance spectroscopy. Significantly, the R² value was 0.960. Then, the developed prototype biosensor was applied to food and water samples. ELISA confirmed the presence of lipopolysaccharide in homogenized infected samples and cross reactivity assays confirmed the specificity of the biosensor. Further, the biosensor showed low detection limit (10¹ CFU/mL) in water and milk sample demonstrating its sensitivity. Regression coefficient of 0.974 in water and 0.982 in milk was obtained. The magnetosome-antibody complex captured 90% of the S. typhimurium in real samples which was also confirmed in FE-SEM. Thus, the developed biosensor is selective, specific, rapid and sensitive for detection of S. typhimurium.

Bioengineered Polyhydroxyalkanoates as Immobilized Enzyme Scaffolds for Industrial Applications

Enzymes function as biocatalysts and are extensively exploited in industrial applications. Immobilization of enzymes using support materials has been shown to improve enzyme properties, including stability and functionality in extreme conditions and recyclability in biocatalytic processing. This review focuses on the recent advances utilizing the design space of in vivo self-assembled polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) particles as biocatalyst immobilization scaffolds. Self-assembly of biologically active enzyme-coated PHA particles is a one-step in vivo production process, which avoids the costly and laborious in vitro chemical cross-linking of purified enzymes to separately produced support materials. The homogeneous orientation of enzymes densely coating PHA particles enhances the accessibility of catalytic sites, improving enzyme function. The PHA particle technology has been developed into a remarkable scaffolding platform for the design of cost-effective designer biocatalysts amenable toward robust industrial bioprocessing. In this review, the PHA particle technology will be compared to other biological supramolecular assembly-based technologies suitable for in vivo enzyme immobilization. Recent progress in the fabrication of biological particulate scaffolds using enzymes of industrial interest will be summarized. Additionally, we outline innovative approaches to overcome limitations of in vivo assembled PHA particles to enable fine-tuned immobilization of multiple enzymes to enhance performance in multi-step cascade reactions, such as those used in continuous flow bioprocessing.

Effects of Environmental Conditions on High-Yield Magnetosome Production by Magnetospirillum gryphiswaldense MSR-1

Background

Magnetotactic bacteria are a heterogeneous group of Gram-negative prokaryote cells that produce linear chains of magnetic particles called magnetosomes, intracellular organelles composed of magnetic iron particles. Many important applications have been defined for magnetic nanoparticles in biotechnology, such as cell separation applications, as well as acting as carriers of enzymes, antibodies, or anti-cancer drugs. Since the bacterial growth is difficult and the yield of magnetosome production is low, the application of magnetosome has not been developed on a commercial scale.

Methods

Magnetospirillum gryphiswaldense strain MSR-1 was used in a modified current culture medium supplemented by different concentrations of oxygen, iron, carbon, and nitrogen, to increase the yield of magnetosomes.

Results

Our improved MSR-1 culture medium increased magnetosome yield, magnetosome number per bacterial cell, magnetic response, and bacterial cell growth yield significantly. The yield of magnetosome increased approximately four times. The optimized culture medium containing 25 mM of Na-pyruvate, 40 mM of NaNO3, 200 µM of ferrous sulfate, and 5-10 ppm of dissolved oxygen (DO) resulted in 186.67 mg of magnetosome per liter of culture medium. The iron uptake increased significantly, and the magnetic response of the bacteria to the magnetic field was higher than threefold as compared to the previously reported procedures.

Conclusion

This technique not only decreases the cultivation time but also reduces the production cost. In this modified method, the iron and DO are the major factors affecting the production of magnetosome by M. gryphiswaldense strain MSR-1. However, refining this technique will enable a further yield of magnetosome and cell density.

Engineered magnetosomes fused to functional molecule (protein A) provide a highly effective alternative to commercial immunomagnetic beads

Background

Magnetosomes (also called bacterial magnetic nanoparticles; BMPs) are biomembrane-coated nanoparticles synthesized by magnetotactic bacteria (MTB). Engineered BMPs fused to protein A (termed ∆F-BMP-FA) bind antibodies (Abs) automatically, and thus provide a series of potential advantages. However, no report so far has systematically evaluated functional applicability of genetically engineered BMPs.

Results

We evaluated properties of ∆F-BMP-FA, and developed/optimized culture methods for host strain Magnetospirillum gryphiswaldense ΔF-FA, ∆F-BMP-FA extraction conditions, conditions for Ab conjugation to ∆F-BMP-FA surface, and procedures for antigen detection using ∆F-BMP-FA/Ab complexes (termed BMP-A-Ab). Fed-batch culture for 36 h in a 42-L fermentor resulted in yields (dry weight) of 2.26 g/L for strain ΔF-FA and 62 mg/L for ∆F-BMP-FA. Optimal wash cycle number for ∆F-BMP-FA purification was seven, with magnetic separation following each ultrasonication step. Fusion of protein A to BMPs resulted in ordered arrangement of Abs on BMP surface. Linkage rate 962 μg Ab per mg ∆F-BMP-FA was achieved. BMP-A-Ab were tested for detection of pathogen (Vibrio parahaemolyticus; Vp) surface antigen and hapten (gentamicin sulfate). Maximal Vp capture rate for BMP-A-Ab was 90% (higher than rate for commercial immunomagnetic beads), and detection sensitivity was 5 CFU/mL. ∆F-BMP-FA also bound Abs from crude mouse ascites to form complex. Lowest gentamicin sulfate detection line for BMP-A-Ab was 0.01 ng/mL, 400-fold lower than that for double Ab sandwich ELISA, and gentamicin sulfate recovery rate for BMP-A-Ab was 93.2%.

Conclusion

Our findings indicate that engineered BMPs such as ∆F-BMP-FA are inexpensive, eco-friendly alternatives to commercial immunomagnetic beads for detection or diagnostic immunoassays, and have high Ab-conjugation and antigen-adsorption capacity.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s12951-019-0469-z) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Revisiting the mechanistic pathways for bacterial mediated synthesis of noble metal nanoparticles

Synthesis and application of reliable nanoscale materials is a progressive domain and the limelight of modern nanotechnology. Conventional physicochemical approaches for the synthesis of metal nanoparticles have become obsolete owing to costly and hazardous materials. There is a need to explore alternative, cost-effective and eco-friendly strategies for fabrication of nanoparticle (NPs). Green synthesis of noble metal nanoparticles has emerged as a promising approach in the last decade. Elucidation of the molecular mechanism is highly essential in the biological synthesis of noble metal nanoparticles (NPs) for the controlled size, shape, and monodispersity. Moreover, mechanistic insights will help to scale up the facile synthesis protocols and will enable biotransformation of toxic heavy metals hence also providing the detoxification effects. Therefore, the current review article has primarily targeted the mechanisms involved in the green synthesis of metal NPs, which have been reported during the last few years. Detailed mechanistic pathways have highlighted nitrate reductase as a principle reducing agent in the bacterial mediated synthesis and stabilization of NPs. Furthermore, we have highlighted the potential implications of these mechanisms in bioremediation and biomineralization processes, which can play a critical role in biogeochemical cycling and environmental impacts of heavy metals. We anticipate that this review article will help researchers to address the challenges of bioremediation and modern nanotechnology.

Investigation of the magnetosome biomineralization in magnetotactic bacteria using graphene liquid cell - transmission electron microscopy

Understanding the biomineralization pathways in living biological species is a grand challenge owing to the difficulties in monitoring the mineralization process at sub-nanometer scales. Here, we monitored the nucleation and growth of magnetosome nanoparticles in bacteria and in real time using a transmission electron microscope (TEM). To enable biomineralization within the bacteria, we subcultured magnetotactic bacteria grown in iron-depleted medium and then mixed them with iron-rich medium within graphene liquid cells (GLCs) right before imaging the bacteria under the microscope. Using in situ electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS), the oxidation state of iron in the biomineralized magnetosome was analysed to be magnetite with trace amount of hematite. The increase of mass density of biomineralized magnetosomes as a function of incubation time indicated that the bacteria maintained their functionality during the in situ TEM imaging. Our results underpin that GLCs enables a new platform to observe biomineralization events in living biological species at unprecedented spatial resolution. Understanding the biomineralization processes in living organisms facilitates the design of biomimetic materials, and will enable a paradigm shift in understanding the evolution of biological species.

Understanding the Biomineralization Role of Magnetite-Interacting Components (MICs) From Magnetotactic Bacteria

Biomineralization is a process that takes place in all domains of life and which usually helps organisms to harden soft tissues by creating inorganic structures that facilitate their biological functions. It was shown that biominerals are under tight biological control via proteins that are involved in nucleation initiation and/or which act as structural skeletons. Magnetotactic bacteria (MTB) use iron biomineralization to create nano-magnetic particles in a specialized organelle, the magnetosome, to align to the geomagnetic field. A specific set of magnetite-associated proteins (MAPs) is involved in regulating magnetite nucleation, size, and shape. These MAPs are all predicted to contain specific 17–22 residue-long sequences involved in magnetite formation. To understand the mechanism of magnetite formation, we focused on three different MAPs, MamC, Mms6 and Mms7, and studied the predicted iron-binding sequences. Using nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), we differentiated the recognition mode of each MAP based on ion specificity, affinity, and binding residues. The significance of critical residues in each peptide was evaluated by mutation followed by an iron co-precipitation assay. Among the peptides, MamC showed weak ion binding but created the most significant effect in enhancing magnetite particle size, indicating the potency in controlling magnetite particle shape and size. Alternatively, Mms6 and Mms7 had strong binding affinities but less effect in modulating magnetite particle size, representing their major role potentially in initiating nucleation by increasing local metal concentration. Overall, our results explain how different MAPs affect magnetite synthesis, interact with Fe²⁺ ions and which residues are important for the MAPs functions.

Development of a simple intensified fermentation strategy for growth of Magnetospirillum gryphiswaldense MSR-1: Physiological responses to changing environmental conditions

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Magnetosomes are natural intracellular, membrane-bound, magnetic nanoparticles.

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Magnetosomes have a variety of clinical and biotechnological applications.

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Magnetosomes are currently difficult to produce at large scale.

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We developed a simple, scalable, fermentation strategy for magnetosome production.

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The methods developed will aid development of magnetosome technologies.

The development of a simple pH-stat fed-batch fermentation strategy for the production of Magnetospirillum gryphiswaldense MSR-1 and magnetosomes (nanoscale magnetic organelles with biotechnological applications) is described. Flow cytometry was exploited as a powerful analytical tool for process development, enabling rapid monitoring of cell morphology, physiology and polyhydroxyalkanoate production. The pH-stat fed-batch growth strategy was developed by varying the concentrations of the carbon source (lactic acid) and the alternative electron acceptor (sodium nitrate) in the feed. Growth conditions were optimized on the basis of biomass concentration, cellular magnetism (indicative of magnetosome production), and intracellular iron concentration. The highest biomass concentration and cellular iron content achieved were an optical density at 565 nm of 15.5 (equivalent to 4.2 g DCW·L⁻¹) and 33.1 mg iron·g⁻¹ DCW, respectively. This study demonstrates the importance of analyzing bacterial physiology during fermentation development and will potentially aid the industrial production of magnetosomes, which can be used in a wide range of biotechnology and healthcare applications.

Review on nanoparticles and nanostructured materials: history, sources, toxicity and regulations

Nanomaterials (NMs) have gained prominence in technological advancements due to their tunable physical, chemical and biological properties with enhanced performance over their bulk counterparts. NMs are categorized depending on their size, composition, shape, and origin. The ability to predict the unique properties of NMs increases the value of each classification. Due to increased growth of production of NMs and their industrial applications, issues relating to toxicity are inevitable. The aim of this review is to compare synthetic (engineered) and naturally occurring nanoparticles (NPs) and nanostructured materials (NSMs) to identify their nanoscale properties and to define the specific knowledge gaps related to the risk assessment of NPs and NSMs in the environment. The review presents an overview of the history and classifications of NMs and gives an overview of the various sources of NPs and NSMs, from natural to synthetic, and their toxic effects towards mammalian cells and tissue. Additionally, the types of toxic reactions associated with NPs and NSMs and the regulations implemented by different countries to reduce the associated risks are also discussed.

Bioinspired heptapeptides as functionalized mineralization inducers with enhanced hydroxyapatite affinity

The regeneration of mineral crystals under physiological conditions is an efficient way to repair defects in hard tissues. To achieve robust mineralization on surfaces such as the tooth enamel, an inducer requires strong affinity with the substrates and should be able to induce mineralization. Thus far, most studies used a single molecule containing two components to realize the above functions separately, which might be troublesome to synthesize and purify. In this work, inspired by the statherin in the salivary acquired pellicle, we designed a simple peptide sequence, Asp-Asp-Asp-Glu-Glu-Lys-Cys (peptide-7), to accomplish the dual tasks of adsorption and mineralization on enamel surfaces. We speculate the calcium binding ability of the negatively charged carboxylic acid groups in the peptide itself contributes to the dual functions of peptide-7. In vitro and in vivo experiments demonstrated its excellent repair effect on enamel as compared to fluoride. More importantly, due to the strong affinity between peptides and hydroxyapatite, a compact mineralized crystal layer and a strong adhesion between the regenerated minerals and the bottom substrates were observed, similar to the effect induced by fluoride. This work sheds light on the interaction mechanism between peptide-7 and minerals. In addition, since it is safer than fluoride, peptide-7 may have potential applications in the repair of other hard tissues and the functionalization of biomaterials.

Native hypersaline sulphate reducing bacteria contributes to iron nanoparticle formation in saltpan sediment: A concern for aquaculture

A hypersaline dissimilatory sulphate reducing bacterium, strain LS4, isolated from the sediments of Ribander saltpan, Goa, India was found to produce (Fe₂O₃) maghemite nanoparticles. The presence of maghemite nanoparticles was also detected in the same sediment. Strain LS4 was isolated anaerobically on modified Hatchikian's media at 300 psu, growing optimally at 30 °C, 150 psu salinity and pH 7.8. Based on biochemical characteristics and 16S rRNA sequence analysis, the strain LS4 belongs to genus Desulfovibrio. This isolate synthesized iron oxide nanoparticles in vitro when challenged with FeCl₃ & FeSO₄ in the growth medium. The biological nanoparticles were characterized to be Fe₂O₃ nanoparticle of 19 nm size by X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy and energy-dispersive x-ray spectroscopy. Maghemite nanoparticles (5.63 mg g^-1) were isolated from the saltpan sediment by magnetic separation which showed similar characteristic features to the Fe₂O₃ nanoparticle produced by strain LS4 with an average size of 18 nm. Traditionally Goan saltpans were used for aquaculture during the non-salt making season, thus effects of these nanoparticles on Zebra fish embryo development were checked, which resulted in developmental abnormalities and DNA damage in a dose dependent manner. With the increasing nanoparticle concentration (0.1 mg.L^-1 to100 mg.L^-1), the mortality rate increased with a decrease in the hatching rate (93.05 ± 2.4 to 25 ± 4.16%) and heart rate (150-120 beats per minute). The nanoparticle exposed embryos developed malformed larvae with a characteristic of pericardial edema, curved body, curved notochord, curved tail and curved tail tip. These results suggest that strain LS4 might be playing a role as a contributor in the formation of iron oxide nanoparticle in the Ribander saltpan sediment, however; its high concentration will have a negative impact on aquaculture in these saltpans.

Effects of dissolved oxygen concentration and iron addition on immediate-early gene expression of Magnetospirillum gryphiswaldense MSR-1

We report the effects of dissolved oxygen (DO) concentration and iron addition on gene expression of Magnetospirillum gryphiswaldense MSR-1 cells during fermentations, focusing on 0.25-24 h after iron addition. The DO was strictly controlled at 0.5% or 5% O2, and compared with aerobic condition. Uptake of iron (and formation of magnetosomes) was only observed in the 0.5% O2 condition where there was little difference in cell growth and carbon consumption compared to the 5% O2 condition. Quantitative reverse transcription PCR analysis showed a rapid (within 0.25 h) genetic response of MSR-1 cells after iron addition for all the genes studied, except for MgFnr (oxygen sensor gene) and fur (ferric uptake regulator family gene), and which in some cases was oxygen dependent. In particular, expression of sodB1 (superoxide dismutase gene) and feoB1 (ferrous transport protein B1 gene) was markedly reduced in cultures at 0.5% O2 compared to those at higher oxygen tensions. Moreover, expression of katG (catalase-peroxidase gene) and feoB2 (ferrous transport protein B2 gene) was reduced markedly by iron addition, regardless of oxygen conditions. These data provide a greater understanding of molecular response of MSR-1 cells to environmental conditions associated with oxygen and iron metabolisms, especially relevant to immediate-early stage of fermentation.

Roles played by polysaccharides with different structures in biomimetic synthesis of cuprous oxide

In this study, several polysaccharide derivatives, carboxymethyl cellulose sodium (CMC), carboxymethyl chitin (CMCH) and sodium alginate (HCM), were introduced as the template in the preparation of Cu₂O.

Synthesis, Functionalization, and Design of Magnetic Nanoparticles for Theranostic Applications

In order to translate nanotechnology into medical practice, magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) have been presented as a class of non-invasive nanomaterials for numerous biomedical applications. In particular, MNPs have opened a door for simultaneous diagnosis and brisk treatment of diseases in the form of theranostic agents. This review highlights the recent advances in preparation and utilization of MNPs from the synthesis and functionalization steps to the final design consideration in evading the body immune system for therapeutic and diagnostic applications with addressing the most recent examples of the literature in each section. This study provides a conceptual framework of a wide range of synthetic routes classified mainly as wet chemistry, state-of-the-art microfluidic reactors, and biogenic routes, along with the most popular coating materials to stabilize resultant MNPs. Additionally, key aspects of prolonging the half-life of MNPs via overcoming the sequential biological barriers are covered through unraveling the biophysical interactions at the bio-nano interface and giving a set of criteria to efficiently modulate MNPs' physicochemical properties. Furthermore, concepts of passive and active targeting for successful cell internalization, by respectively exploiting the unique properties of cancers and novel targeting ligands are described in detail. Finally, this study extensively covers the recent developments in magnetic drug targeting and hyperthermia as therapeutic applications of MNPs. In addition, multi-modal imaging via fusion of magnetic resonance imaging, and also innovative magnetic particle imaging with other imaging techniques for early diagnosis of diseases are extensively provided.

Flow cytometry as a rapid analytical tool to determine physiological responses to changing O2 and iron concentration by Magnetospirillum gryphiswaldense strain MSR-1

Magnetotactic bacteria (MTB) are a diverse group of bacteria that synthesise magnetosomes, magnetic membrane-bound nanoparticles that have a variety of diagnostic, clinical and biotechnological applications. We present the development of rapid methods using flow cytometry to characterize several aspects of the physiology of the commonly-used MTB Magnetospirillum gryphiswaldense MSR-1. Flow cytometry is an optical technique that rapidly measures characteristics of individual bacteria within a culture, thereby allowing determination of population heterogeneity and also permitting direct analysis of bacteria. Scatter measurements were used to measure and compare bacterial size, shape and morphology. Membrane permeability and polarization were measured using the dyes propidium iodide and bis-(1,3-dibutylbarbituric acid) trimethine oxonol to determine the viability and ‘health’ of bacteria. Dyes were also used to determine changes in concentration of intracellular free iron and polyhydroxylakanoate (PHA), a bacterial energy storage polymer. These tools were then used to characterize the responses of MTB to different O₂ concentrations and iron-sufficient or iron-limited growth. Rapid analysis of MTB physiology will allow development of bioprocesses for the production of magnetosomes, and will increase understanding of this fascinating and useful group of bacteria.

Chains of magnetosomes with controlled endotoxin release and partial tumor occupation induce full destruction of intracranial U87-Luc glioma in mice under the application of an alternating magnetic field

Previous studies showed that magnetic hyperthermia could efficiently destroy tumors both preclinically and clinically, especially glioma. However, antitumor efficacy remained suboptimal and therefore required further improvements. Here, we introduce a new type of nanoparticles synthesized by magnetotactic bacteria, called magnetosomes, with improved properties compared with commonly used chemically synthesized nanoparticles. Indeed, mice bearing intracranial U87-Luc glioma tumors injected with 13μg of nanoparticles per mm³ of tumor followed by 12 to 15 of 30min alternating magnetic field applications displayed either full tumor disappearance in 40% of mice or no tumor regression using magnetosomes or chemically synthesized nanoparticles, respectively. Magnetosome superior antitumor activity could be explained both by a larger production of heat and by endotoxins release under alternating magnetic field application. Most interestingly, this behavior was observed when magnetosomes occupied only 10% of the whole tumor volume, which suggests that an indirect mechanism, such as an immune reaction, takes part in tumor regression. This is desired for the treatment of infiltrating tumors, such as glioma, for which whole tumor coverage by nanoparticles can hardly be achieved.

Respiring cellular nano-magnets

Magnetotactic bacteria provide an interesting example for the biosynthesis of magnetic (Fe₃O₄ or Fe₃S₄) nanoparticles, synthesized through a process known as biologically controlled mineralization, resulting in complex monodispersed, and nanostructures with unique magnetic properties. In this work, we report a novel aerobic bacterial strain isolated from sludge of an oil refinery. Microscopic and staining analysis revealed that it was a gram positive rod with the capability to thrive in a medium (9K) supplemented, with Fe²⁺ ions at an acidic pH (~3.2). The magnetic behaviour of these cells was tested by their alignment towards a permanent magnet, and later on confirmed by magnetometry analysis. The X-ray diffraction studies proved the cellular biosynthesis of magnetite nanoparticles inside the bacteria. This novel, bio-nano-magnet, could pave the way for green synthesis of magnetic nanoparticles to be used in industrial and medical applications such as MRI, magnetic hyperthermia and ferrofluids.

Bacterial magnetosome and its potential application

Bacterial magnetosome, synthetized by magnetosome-producing microorganisms including magnetotactic bacteria (MTB) and some non-magnetotactic bacteria (Non-MTB), is a new type of material comprising magnetic nanocrystals surrounded by a phospholipid bilayer. Because of the special properties such as single magnetic domain, excellent biocompatibility and surface modification, bacterial magnetosome has become an increasingly attractive for researchers in biology, medicine, paleomagnetism, geology and environmental science. This review briefly describes the general feature of magnetosome-producing microorganisms. This article also highlights recent advances in the understanding of the biochemical and magnetic characteristics of bacterial magnetosome, as well as the magnetosome formation mechanism including iron ions uptake, magnetosome membrane formation, biomineralization and magnetosome chain assembly. Finally, this review presents the potential applications of bacterial magnetosome in biomedicine, wastewater treatment, and the significance of mineralization of magnetosome in biology and geology.

Physiological origin of biogenic magnetic nanoparticles in health and disease: from bacteria to humans

The discovery of biogenic magnetic nanoparticles (BMNPs) in the human brain gives a strong impulse to study and understand their origin. Although knowledge of the subject is increasing continuously, much remains to be done for further development to help our society fight a number of pathologies related to BMNPs. This review provides an insight into the puzzle of the physiological origin of BMNPs in organisms of all three domains of life: prokaryotes, archaea, and eukaryotes, including humans. Predictions based on comparative genomic studies are presented along with experimental data obtained by physical methods. State-of-the-art understanding of the genetic control of biomineralization of BMNPs and their properties are discussed in detail. We present data on the differences in BMNP levels in health and disease (cancer, neurodegenerative disorders, and atherosclerosis), and discuss the existing hypotheses on the biological functions of BMNPs, with special attention paid to the role of the ferritin core and apoferritin.

Designed synthesis and surface engineering strategies of magnetic iron oxide nanoparticles for biomedical applications

Iron oxide nanoparticles (NPs) hold great promise for future biomedical applications because of their magnetic properties as well as other intrinsic properties such as low toxicity, colloidal stability, and surface engineering capability. Numerous related studies on iron oxide NPs have been conducted. Recent progress in nanochemistry has enabled fine control over the size, crystallinity, uniformity, and surface properties of iron oxide NPs. This review examines various synthetic approaches and surface engineering strategies for preparing naked and functional iron oxide NPs with different physicochemical properties. Growing interest in designed and surface-engineered iron oxide NPs with multifunctionalities was explored in in vitro/in vivo biomedical applications, focusing on their combined roles in bioseparation, as a biosensor, targeted-drug delivery, MR contrast agents, and magnetic fluid hyperthermia. This review outlines the limitations of extant surface engineering strategies and several developing strategies that may overcome these limitations. This study also details the promising future directions of this active research field.

Comparative Subcellular Localization Analysis of Magnetosome Proteins Reveals a Unique Localization Behavior of Mms6 Protein onto Magnetite Crystals

The magnetosome is an organelle specialized for inorganic magnetite crystal synthesis in magnetotactic bacteria. The complex mechanism of magnetosome formation is regulated by magnetosome proteins in a stepwise manner. Protein localization is a key step for magnetosome development; however, a global study of magnetosome protein localization remains to be conducted. Here, we comparatively analyzed the subcellular localization of a series of green fluorescent protein (GFP)-tagged magnetosome proteins. The protein localizations were categorized into 5 groups (short-length linear, middle-length linear, long-length linear, cell membrane, and intracellular dispersing), which were related to the protein functions. Mms6, which regulates magnetite crystal growth, localized along magnetosome chain structures under magnetite-forming (microaerobic) conditions but was dispersed in the cell under nonforming (aerobic) conditions. Correlative fluorescence and electron microscopy analyses revealed that Mms6 preferentially localized to magnetosomes enclosing magnetite crystals. We suggest that a highly organized spatial regulation mechanism controls magnetosome protein localization during magnetosome formation in magnetotactic bacteria.

IMPORTANCE

Magnetotactic bacteria synthesize magnetite (Fe3O4) nanocrystals in a prokaryotic organelle called the magnetosome. This organelle is formed using various magnetosome proteins in multiple steps, including vesicle formation, magnetosome alignment, and magnetite crystal formation, to provide compartmentalized nanospaces for the regulation of iron concentrations and redox conditions, enabling the synthesis of a morphologically controlled magnetite crystal. Thus, to rationalize the complex organelle development, the localization of magnetosome proteins is considered to be highly regulated; however, the mechanisms remain largely unknown. Here, we performed comparative localization analysis of magnetosome proteins that revealed the presence of a spatial regulation mechanism within the linear structure of magnetosomes. This discovery provides evidence of a highly regulated protein localization mechanism for this bacterial organelle development.

Magnetotactic bacteria and magnetosomes - Scope and challenges

Geomagnetism aided navigation has been demonstrated by certain organisms which allows them to identify a particular location using magnetic field. This attractive technique to recognize the course was earlier exhibited in numerous animals, for example, birds, insects, reptiles, fishes and mammals. Magnetotactic bacteria (MTB) are one of the best examples for magnetoreception among microorganisms as the magnetic mineral functions as an internal magnet and aid the microbe to move towards the water columns in an oxic-anoxic interface (OAI). The ability of MTB to biomineralize the magnetic particles (magnetosomes) into uniform nano-sized, highly crystalline structure with uniform magnetic properties has made the bacteria an important topic of research. The superior properties of magnetosomes over chemically synthesized magnetic nanoparticles made it an attractive candidate for potential applications in microbiology, biophysics, biochemistry, nanotechnology and biomedicine. In this review article, the scope of MTB, magnetosomes and its challenges in research and industrial application have been discussed in brief. This article mainly focuses on the application based on the magnetotactic behaviour of MTB and magnetosomes in different areas of modern science.