Self‐Growing Bacterial Support for Synthesis of Metal Nanoparticles and Preparation of Sustainable M/Bact Biohybrid Catalysts. A Review

The development of sustainable and efficient catalytic systems is a critical challenge in modern chemistry, particularly in the synthesis and stabilization of metal nanoparticles (NPs) for catalytic applications. Traditional approaches relying on regular supports face significant limitations, including high energy demands, environmental impact, and inconsistent reproducibility due to the variability of precursor materials. In this review, we explore a dual-functional role of bacterial cells in catalysis: first, as natural agents for the bioreduction of metal ions to form NPs, and second, as robust, self-growing supports for stabilizing these NPs. Bacterial systems offer an environmentally friendly and cost-effective alternative to conventional methods, enabling precise control over NP size, distribution, and catalytic properties. This approach eliminates the need for toxic chemicals and high-temperature processes, significantly reducing the ecological footprint of catalyst preparation. Furthermore, bacterial supports exhibit superior reproducibility due to the uniformity of microbial strains, unlocking new possibilities for practical applications. The review provides a critical comparison of bacterial and carbon supports, emphasizing the novelty and potential of biohybrid metal-on-bacteria (M/Bact) catalysts. By bridging biotechnology and nanotechnology, this analysis highlights the broad appeal of M/Bact catalysis and its promise in advancing green chemistry, sustainable synthesis, and innovative applications.