Covalent-organic framework nanobionics for robust cytoprotection

Abstract

We present a novel study introducing a durable and robust covalent-organic framework (COF) nanocoating, developed in situ on living cells. This COF nanocoating demonstrates remarkable resistance against a diverse range of lethal stressors, including high temperature, extreme pH, ultraviolet radiation, toxic metal ions, organic pollutants, and strong oxidative stress. Notably, the nanocoating exhibits exceptional cell survival enhancement under high temperature and strongly acidic conditions, an aspect yet unexplored in the case of metal–organic framework nanocoatings and other nanomaterials. Moreover, functionalization of the nanocoating with an exogenous enzyme catalase enables yeast fermentation and ethanol production even under strong oxidative stress. Our findings establish the durable and robust COF nanocoating as a reliable platform for safeguarding vulnerable microorganisms to allow their utilisation in a wide range of adverse environments.