journal article·2026-04-17Open access

Engineering Microbial Particles for Next‐Generation Biomedical Platforms

Yuting Li, Yunjie Lu, Ziyan Huang, Jianjiang Chen, Yanbin Liu, Lei Qin, Chao Wang, Yumin Wu

Abstract

ABSTRACT Microbe‐derived particles (MDPs), which include extracellular vesicles, outer membrane vesicles, inclusion bodies, polysaccharide particles, and virus‐like particles, represent a rapidly expanding category of bioinspired nanomaterials. With their natural origin, intrinsic biocompatibility, and highly programmable functionality, MDPs serve as a versatile bridge between living microbial systems and engineered nanomaterials. This review systematically outlines the diverse classes, biosynthetic pathways, physicochemical properties, and biomedical applications of MDPs. We summarize recent progress in their use for drug delivery, vaccine design, immune modulation, and diagnostic imaging, emphasizing how bioengineering approaches enable precise control over their composition and targeting capabilities. Additionally, we examine advancing methodologies for scalable manufacturing and accurate characterization—such as omics‐based profiling and advanced imaging techniques. Finally, we discuss current challenges and future prospects for integrating synthetic biology with materials science to develop next‐generation intelligent biological platforms based on MDPs. This comprehensive overview aims to foster the rational design and translational deployment of MDP‐based systems across biomedical, biotechnological, and materials science fields.
Source: crossref · Quality: baseline

Research context

OpenAlex topics: Nanoplatforms for cancer theranostics · Cancer Research and Treatments · Bacteriophages and microbial interactions

SciVX discovery tags are terminology-based. OpenAlex topics are source-provided classifications.

Affiliations

Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery Department of General Surgery The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University Suzhou China

Institute of Functional Nano & Soft Materials (FUNSOM) Soochow University Suzhou Jiangsu China

State Key Laboratory of Targeting Oncology Guangxi Medical University Nanning Guangxi China

Department of Neurology The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University Suzhou Jiangsu China

Biomedical Basic Research Center (BBRC) of Jiangsu Province Suzhou Jiangsu China

Funding

National Natural Science Foundation of China · Natural Science Foundation of Jiangsu Province

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