Shielding properties of the kombucha-derived bacterial cellulose

Abstract Living organisms are constantly exposed to cosmic, terrestrial, and internal sources of radiation. As a result, they have developed natural radioprotective mechanisms. However, in some cases, these mechanisms may not be sufficient. Elevated doses and prolonged exposure to radiation, such as during radiotherapy or in extreme environments like spaceflight, can cause damage to DNA and increase the abundance of reactive oxygen species, which can affect biological processes. In contrast to synthetic ingredients, naturally produced radioprotective materials have good biocompatibility and are easy to recycle. This work investigates the radioprotective properties of the hydrogel biofilm produced by the kombucha microbial consortium. The shielding properties of kombucha’s bacterial cellulose (KBC) were examined using gamma quanta with energies ranging from 122 to 1408 keV and an AmBe neutron source. The native form of KBC contains more than 80% water content. To enhance the radioprotection of kombucha’s biofilm, metallic components (K, Fe, Mxenes) and biological additives were tested. Rhodobacter sphaeroides and Synechocystis sp. PCC6803, which are resistant to oxidative stress, were added to the cultivation media. Physical properties were characterized using microscopy, ion leaching, and contact angle measurements. Post-processed dried KBC wristbands were analyzed for absorption parameters to enhance protective shielding. Possible levels of radioprotection for various types of bacterial cellulose thickness and forms were computed based on the obtained results. The findings encourage the use of bacterial cellulose in a circular economy for future bioregenerative systems.