Silica Gel Microbeads for Encapsulating Plant Growth Promoting Bacteria (UCLA Case No. 2021-176)

UCLA researchers led by Prof. Ann Hirsch in the Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology have developed silica gel encapsulation for plant growth-promoting bacteria, with applications to enhance the stability, shelf-life, and effectiveness of these beneficial microbes for agricultural use.

Overview: The silica gel encapsulation technology involves embedding plant growth-promoting bacteria within a silica gel matrix, creating a protective barrier. The encapsulation process stabilizes bacteria, minimizing their degradation and ensuring viability under stress conditions such as high temperature, desiccation, and UV exposure. This encapsulation technology provides a robust solution for delivering beneficial bacteria in agriculture, leveraging silica gel’s protective properties to ensure reliable performance in real-world conditions.

Key Innovations of the Technology:

• Methods for preparing silica gel-bacteria composites with stable, uniform distribution and high viability.
• Formulations optimized for compatibility with wide-ranging crop and soil types.

Applications:

• The encapsulated bacteria can be applied to soil, seeds, or plants, facilitating improved delivery and colonization in various agricultural settings.
• Typical bacteria encapsulated include strains that enhance nutrient availability, disease resistance, and crop yields.

Advantages:

• Extended shelf-life: Silica gel protection helps maintain bacterial potency over time.
• Controlled release: The matrix allows gradual release of bacteria, optimizing their activity in the field.
• Environmentally friendly: Use of silica gel is non-toxic and integrates well with sustainable agricultural practices.