Bioinspired stabilization of microbes using silk fibroin

Overview

MicroLife introduces a groundbreaking bioinspired technology that leverages silk fibroin to stabilize both aerobic and anaerobic microbes, including probiotics. This method enhances hydrogen bonding during desiccation, facilitating the vitrification process and significantly extending shelf stability. The application is particularly promising for oxygen-sensitive probiotics, providing a novel solution for the food sector.

Technical specifications

• Silk fibroin-based stabilization: Enhances hydrogen bonding to improve vitrification.
• Barrier properties: Annealed silk fibroin creates effective water vapor and oxygen barriers, reducing microbial stress.
• Versatile application: Initially validated with gram-negative non-spore forming microbes in agriculture; now adapted for probiotics.
• GRAS materials: Uses materials generally regarded as safe, suitable for food applications.
• Future validation steps: Includes stabilizing strains in films, encapsulating microbes with spray drying, and testing release in low pH conditions.

Technology readiness level

This technology is currently at TRL 5, indicating that it has been validated in relevant environments with plans for further testing and optimization in controlled settings.