Biotechnological synthesis of functional nanomaterials

Biological systems, especially those using microorganisms, have the potential to offer cheap, scalable and highly tunable green synthetic routes for the production of the latest generation of nanomaterials. Recent advances in the biotechnological synthesis of functional nano-scale materials are described. These nanomaterials range from catalysts to novel inorganic antimicrobials, nanomagnets, remediation agents and quantum dots for electronic and optical devices. Where possible, the roles of key biological macromolecules in controlling production of the nanomaterials are highlighted, and also technological limitations that must be addressed for widespread implementation are discussed.

► Recent advances in the biotechnological synthesis of functional nano-scale materials are described. ► Microbial metal reduction is an emerging approach for the synthesis of a broad range of functional nanomaterials. ► Offers green scalable production of novel antimicrobials, nanomagnets, catalysts and quantum dots. ► Shape, size and mono-dispersity of the nanoparticles can be controlled by microbial templates.