Biomaterials – mycolab.ai

Fungi as source for new bio-based materials: a patent review

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Researchers reviewed patents from 2009-2018 on using fungal mycelium to create eco-friendly materials. Instead of petroleum-based plastics, scientists grow fungi on agricultural waste like corn stalks and wood chips, where fungal threads bind the materials together into strong, biodegradable products. These fungal materials are being developed for packaging, car interiors, textiles, and insulation, offering sustainable alternatives to conventional plastics.

Silk-based microparticles for the adsorption of methylene blue: formulations, characterization, adsorption study, in silico molecular docking, and molecular dynamics simulation

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This research demonstrates that microparticles made from silk fibroin, a protein derived from silkworm cocoons, are exceptionally effective at removing methylene blue dye from water. The silk-based particles work about 32 times better than other forms of silk and can absorb large amounts of the toxic dye. Scientists used computer simulations to understand exactly how the silk protein attracts and binds the dye molecules, providing insights for creating even better eco-friendly water treatment materials.

Biomimetic Catechol-Incorporated Polyacrylonitrile Nanofiber Scaffolds for Tissue Engineering of Functional Salivary Glands

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Scientists developed a new synthetic material made from tiny fibers that can grow functional salivary glands in the laboratory. The special fibers, called PAN-C, attract and hold important proteins that naturally help glands develop. When cells are grown on these fibers, they form working gland structures that produce saliva-related proteins, offering hope for treating dry mouth and similar conditions.

Temporal characterization of biocycles of mycelium-bound composites made from bamboo and Pleurotus ostreatus for indoor usage

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Scientists created a sustainable building material by growing oyster mushroom fungus on bamboo fibers. The material was strong enough for packaging and could be composted after use to enrich soil, completing a full cycle in about 7 months. By adding a natural beeswax coating, the material lasted longer while remaining completely biodegradable. This proof-of-concept demonstrates how fungal materials could replace synthetic plastics in a circular economy.

Patent landscape analysis for materials based on fungal mycelium: a guidance report on how to interpret the current patent situation

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This report analyzes patents protecting mycelium-based materials that could replace plastic and petroleum products in construction, packaging, and insulation. Researchers found 73 existing patents and 34 applications, mostly owned by three US companies, with concerns that overly broad patent protections may be slowing innovation in this promising sustainable materials field. The findings suggest that while mycelium materials show tremendous potential as eco-friendly alternatives, patent restrictions need better management to accelerate their development and commercialization.

Extrusion-based additive manufacturing of fungal-based composite materials using the tinder fungus Fomes fomentarius

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Scientists have developed a way to 3D print objects using mushroom mycelium (the thread-like structure of fungi) mixed with seaweed-derived alginate. These lightweight, spongy printed objects are biodegradable and have properties similar to polystyrene foam, but are made from renewable resources. This breakthrough could eventually replace plastic foam in packaging and other applications with an eco-friendly fungal alternative.

Unlocking the magic in mycelium: Using synthetic biology to optimize filamentous fungi for biomanufacturing and sustainability

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This comprehensive review explores how scientists can use modern genetic engineering tools to improve filamentous fungi (molds and mushrooms) for producing valuable products like antibiotics, enzymes, and sustainable food and materials. The authors explain that while these fungi naturally excel at breaking down plant material and producing useful compounds, they haven’t received as much attention from genetic engineers as other microorganisms. By applying techniques like CRISPR gene editing, computational modeling, and directed evolution, researchers can make fungal strains grow faster, produce higher yields, and use cheaper feedstocks, making industrial production more efficient and environmentally friendly.

Latest advance anti-inflammatory hydrogel wound dressings and traditional Lignosus rhinoceros used for wound healing agents

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This review examines modern hydrogel wound dressings and traditional medicinal mushrooms like Lignosus rhinoceros for treating wounds. Hydrogels are water-absorbing materials that mimic natural tissue and help wounds heal by maintaining moisture, preventing infection, and promoting cell growth. Traditional mushrooms offer anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory properties that could complement modern dressing technologies for better wound healing outcomes.

Gradient porous structures of mycelium: a quantitative structure–mechanical property analysis

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Scientists studied how mushroom root structures (mycelium) naturally develop different properties from bottom to top as they grow. They found that the thicker, older parts near the food source are stiffer and more densely packed with fibers, while the thinner, younger parts are more porous and flexible. This natural gradient could be useful for creating biodegradable materials for medical implants, filters, and other applications where changing properties are beneficial.

Development and characterization of novelly grown fire-resistant fungal fibers

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Scientists developed fire-resistant fibers from fungal mycelium grown with silica, offering a natural alternative to synthetic plastic fibers used in concrete. These fungal fibers burn more slowly, retain more material after heating, and create protective char layers that help prevent concrete spalling during fires. The new fibers are more environmentally friendly, cheaper to produce, and significantly outperform traditional polypropylene fibers in fire-resistant applications.

Research Topic: Biomaterials