Blueprints of Blue
Humans have always been fascinated by colour. Many modern dyes come from chemical processes that harm the environment. Blueprints of Blue tells the story of xylindein, a dazzling blue-green pigment made by the wood-stain fungi Chlorociboria. Not only is it beautiful, it can also be used in textiles, wood arts, and even as natural semiconductor for electronics. The challenge is that these fungi grow slowly while the pigment is difficult to extract.
In this study, we discovered the genes that make xylindein and recreated key enzymatic steps that can be performed in a more lab-friendly fungus. By understanding how nature produces this amazing pigment, we can start producing it sustainably through fermentation. This work shows that nature’s colours are not just for art, but that they can also inspire eco-friendly dyes and cutting-edge materials, proving that sustainability and innovation can go hand in hand.