Archive · 10 Jan 2026
INST Scientists Discover Semiconductor Protein for Green Electronics
Scientists in India have found a special protein from bacteria that can act like the materials used in electronics, such as those in phones or medical devices.
This protein forms thin sheets that can create tiny electrical charges when exposed to UV light, similar to a tiny solar cell.
The best part is that this protein is flexible, safe for the body, and can break down naturally without harming the environment.
This discovery could lead to new types of wearable health monitors, skin-safe UV detectors, and even sensors that can be safely used inside the human body or in the environment without causing pollution.
The research was published in a scientific journal and shows great promise for creating greener and more sustainable electronic devices in the future.
Scientists at INST, Mohali discovered that a self-assembling bacterial shell protein exhibits semiconductor properties.
The protein forms thin, sheet-like structures that generate electrical current when exposed to UV light, acting as light-driven, scaffold-free semiconductors.
The protein's natural arrangement and the presence of tyrosine allow it to produce an electrical signal without synthetic additives or high-temperature manufacturing.
Potential applications include wearable health monitors, skin-safe UV-detection patches, implantable medical sensors, and biodegradable environmental sensors.
The discovery was published in the journal Chemical Science and offers a sustainable alternative to traditional semiconductor materials.
- Who
- Scientists from the Institute of Nano Science and Technology (INST), Mohali
- What
- Discovered semiconductor properties in a self-assembling bacterial shell protein
- When
- January 10, 2024
- Where
- Institute of Nano Science and Technology (INST), Mohali, India
- Why
- To develop safe, environmentally friendly electronics and address the limitations of traditional semiconductor materials
- Research Institute
- Institute of Nano Science and Technology (INST), Mohali
- Lead Researcher
- Dr. Sharmistha Sinha
- Key Protein
- Self-assembling bacterial shell protein
- Publication Journal
- Chemical Science (Royal Society of Chemistry)
- Potential Applications
- Wearable health monitors, UV-detection patches, implantable medical sensors, environmental sensors
- Key Amino Acid
- Tyrosine
- Material Property
- Flexible, body-friendly, biodegradable