Individual cell modification with cell surface specific atom transfer radical polymerization for enhanced Cr(VI) removal.

Modifying cells with polymers on the surface can enable them to gain or enhance function with various applications, wherein the atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP) has garnered significant potential due to its biocompatibility. However, specifically initiating ATRP from the cell surface for in-situ modification remains challenging. This study established a bacterial surface-initiated ATRP method and further applied it for enhanced Cr(VI) removal.