New Delhi: Scientists at the Institute of Nano Science and Technology (INST), Mohali, under the Department of Science and Technology (DST), have made a significant discovery. They have identified the semiconductor properties of a well-known self-assembling bacterial shell protein. This breakthrough could lead to the development of electronic devices that are safe, body-friendly, and environmentally sustainable. Potential applications include mobile phones, smartwatches, medical devices, and environmental monitoring sensors.

Currently, traditional semiconductor materials like silicon are widely used but have limitations. They are rigid, require high energy for production, and contribute to electronic waste. This has created a demand for electronics that are durable, flexible, and compatible with the human body, such as wearable devices, implantable gadgets, and eco-friendly sensors.

The researchers studied bacterial proteins that naturally assemble into thin, flat layers. These layers inherently possess unique electron arrangements. The team investigated whether these proteins could exhibit photoactive properties on their own.

They found that when these proteins form sheet-like films, they absorb ultraviolet light and generate an electric current without any added dyes, metals, or external power sources. This behavior is similar to that of semiconductors used in electronic devices.

Under ultraviolet light, subtle electric charges move across the protein surface. Led by Dr. Sharmistha Sinha, with student researchers Silky Bedi and S.M. Rose, the team explained that this occurs because the protein contains tyrosine, a natural amino acid that releases electrons when stimulated by light. As electrons and protons move, the protein sheet produces an electric signal, functioning like a tiny solar cell. This light-driven effect depends on the protein’s internal structure and requires no synthetic additives or high-temperature manufacturing.

The team highlighted the exciting real-world possibilities of this material. Being flexible and body-friendly, it could be used to create wearable HEALTH monitors, skin-safe UV detection patches, and implantable medical sensors that operate safely inside the human body.

The research has been published in the Royal Society of Chemistry’s journal Chemical Science. In the future, such devices may offer families, patients, and everyday users soft, comfortable, and environmentally friendly options for daily life.