Rewiring energy flow in biohybrids for enhanced solar-driven biosynthesis

Abstract

Semiconductor biohybrids offer a viable approach to harness solar energy for biosynthesis, but solar-driven routes often suffer from inefficient conversion of light energy into cytosolic cofactors. This work rewires energy flow in CdS-Vibrio natriegens biohybrids by tuning semiconductor morphology and structure, enhancing solar-to-2,3-butanediol conversion and extending the platform to polyhydroxybutyrate and alpha-farnesene production. The system also upcycles waste-carbon sources including industrial wastewater, demonstrating scalability and robustness.