Electric stimulation: a versatile manipulation technique mediated microbial applications.

Zhijun Shi, Guang Yang, Li Wang, Manjila Adhikari, Dhurba Adhikari, Sujan Khadka, Mati Ullah, Bricard Mbituyimana, Clemence Futila Bukatuka

Journal: Bioprocess and biosystems engineering 2025;48(2):171-192

PMID: 39611964

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Abstract

Electric stimulation (ES) is a versatile technique that uses an electric field to manipulate microorganisms individually. Over the past several decades, the capabilities of ES have expanded from bioremediation to the precise motion control of cells and microorganisms. However, there is limited information on the underlying mechanisms, latest advancement and broader microbial applications of ES in various fields, such as the production of extracellular polymers with upgraded properties. This review article summarizes recent advancements in ES and discusses it as a unique external manipulation technique for microorganisms with wide applications in bioremediation, industry, biofilm deactivation, disinfection, and controlled biosynthesis. One specific application of ES discussed in this review is the extracellular biosynthesis, regulation, and organization of extracellular polymers, such as bacterial cellulose nanofibrils, curdlan, and microbial nanowires. Overall, this review aims to provide a platform for microbial biotechnologists and synthetic biologists to leverage the manipulation of microorganisms using ES for bio-based applications, including the production of extracellular polymers with enhanced properties. Researchers can engineer, manipulate, and control microorganisms for various applications by harnessing the potential of electric fields.

Address: Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430074, China.; Wuhan Branch of the National Science Library, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, 430071, China.; Genomic Division, Faculty of Biosciences and Aquaculture, Nord University, NO-8049, Bodø, Norway.; Department of Biotechnology and Food Science, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), 7491, Trondheim, Norway.; Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430074, China.; Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430074, China. [email protected].; Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430074, China. [email protected].

DOI: 10.1007/s00449-024-03107-z

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https://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s00449-024-03107-z

MeSH Terms: Electric Stimulation, Biofilms, Bacteria, Cellulose, beta-Glucans