Abstract
Research in cell adhesion has important implications in various areas, such as food processing, medicine, environmental engineering, biotechnological processes. Cell surface characterization and immobilization of microorganisms on solid surfaces can be performed by promoting cell adhesion, in a relatively simple, inexpensive, and quick manner. The adhesion of Yarrowia lipolytica IMUFRJ 50682 to different surfaces, especially potential residual plastics (polystyrene, poly(ethylene terephthalate), and poly(tetrafluoroethylene)), and its use as an immobilized biocatalyst were tested. Y. lipolytica IMUFRJ 50682 presented high adhesion to different surfaces such as poly(tetrafluoroethylene) (Teflon), polystyrene, and glass, independent of pH, and low adhesion to poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET). The adhesion of the cells to polystyrene was probably due to hydrophobic interactions involving proteins or protein complexes. The adhesion of the cells to Teflon might be the result not only of hydrophobic interactions but also of acid–basic forces. Additionally, the present work shows that Y. lipolytica cell extracts previously treated by ultrasound waves (cell debris) maintained their enzymatic activity (lipase) and could be attached to polystyrene and PET and used successfully as immobilized biocatalysts in hydrolysis reactions.
Highlights
The industrial application of polymeric materials, especially plastics, has grown intensively due to their suitable mechanical, chemical, and physical properties and low cost
Researchers have already achieved the adhesion of microbial cells to solid polymer surfaces [5,6,7,8]
The purpose of this work was to investigate the adhesion of Y. lipolytica IMUFRJ 50682 on surfaces with different electrokinetic properties, especially potential residual polymers (polystyrene, poly(ethylene terephthalate), and teflon), and to verify the possibility of its use as immobilization material by testing the enzymatic activity of the adherent cells, which is a crucial parameter for adequate biodepolymerization
Summary
The industrial application of polymeric materials, especially plastics, has grown intensively due to their suitable mechanical, chemical, and physical properties and low cost. Several industries, such as packaging, automotive, electronic, as well as biomedical industries, use these materials for several purposes. Researchers have already achieved the adhesion of microbial cells to solid polymer surfaces [5,6,7,8]. Some have tested these immobilized catalysts in important industrial reactions, for example biodiesel production [6]. The cells must adhere strongly to a surface to avoid desorption during the reaction with consequent loss of the catalyst [7]
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