Proteins and Protein-Based Biomaterials from Organisms in Extreme Environments

Dear Colleagues,

In the diverse ecosystems of our planet, organisms demonstrate an extraordinary capacity to not only survive but also thrive in the most extreme conditions imaginable. This resilience is not limited to microorganisms, and extends to a wide range of life forms, including plants, invertebrates, and even mammals. These organisms, often referred to as extremophiles, include hyperthermophiles, thermophiles, psychrophiles, acidophiles, basophiles, halophiles, and piezophiles. Each is uniquely adapted to survive in environments ranging from deep sea vents and acidic hot springs to frozen tundras and arid deserts.

The remarkable adaptations of these extremophiles have captivated scientists and led to significant advancements in the life sciences. They have influenced both academic research and society in general. A notable example is the discovery and utilization of Taq DNA polymerase, derived from thermophilic bacteria, and lipases from Candida antarctica, a psychrophilic yeast. Beyond this, the potential of these organisms, particularly in biotechnology, industrial applications, and biomedicine, is vast and largely unexplored. Despite advances in next-generation sequencing and advanced bioinformatics, a significant portion of their proteins remains uninvestigated for practical applications. In addition, the exploration of the protein-based biomaterials derived from these organisms is interesting. A representative example is the ice-binding protein or antifreeze protein. These biomaterials, with their unique properties honed by extreme environments, hold great promise for innovative applications in various fields, including biomedical engineering, environmental remediation, and sustainable material development.

This upcoming Topic, entitled “Proteins and Protein-Based Biomaterials from Organisms in Extreme Environments” aims to delve deeper into this uncharted territory. We seek to encompass a broad spectrum of topics including, but not limited to, the keywords listed below.

Prof. Dr. Hak Jun Kim
Dr. Hackwon Do
Topic Editors