Work

A review of clothing microbiology: the history of clothing and the role of microbes in textiles

Year: 2021

Type: review

Abstract: Humans have worn clothing for thousands of years, and since its invention, clothing has evolved from its simple utilitarian function for survival to become an integral part of society. While much consideration has been given to the broad environmental impacts of the textile and laundering industries, little is known about the impact wearing clothing has had on the human microbiome, particularly that of the skin, despite our long history with clothing. This review discusses the history of clothing and the evolution of textiles, what is and is not known about microbial persistence on and degradation of various fibres, and what opportunities for the industrial and environmental application of clothing microbiology exist for the future.

Source: Biology Letters

DOI: 10.1098/rsbl.2020.0700

Authors: Deaja Sanders, Amy Grunden, Robert R. Dunn

Institution: North Carolina State University

Language: English

Topic: Dyeing and Modifying Textile Fibers

Subfield: Building and Construction

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: bronze

Funders: National Institutes of Health, National Institute of General Medical Sciences

Awards: Molecular Biotechnology Training at North Carolina State University, NC State Molecular Biotechnology Training Program (MBTP)