Specialized biopolymers: versatile tools for microbial resilience

Bacteria produce a wide range of specialized biopolymers that can be classified into polysaccharides, polyamides, and polyesters and are considered to fulfill storage functions. In this review, we highlight recent developments in the field linking metabolism of biopolymers to stress and signaling physiology of the producers and demonstrating that biopolymers contribute to bacterial stress resistance and shape structure and composition of microenvironments. While specialized biopolymers are currently the focus of much attention in biotechnology as innovative and biodegradable materials, our understanding about the regulation and functions of these valuable compounds for the producers, microbial communities, and our environment is still very limited. Addressing open questions about signals, mechanisms, and functions in the area of biopolymers harbors potential for exciting discoveries with high relevance for biotechnology and fundamental research. •Specialized biopolymers are crucial for bacterial storage and stress adaptation.•Specialized biopolymers confer metabolic flexibility and contribute to resilience.•Specialized biopolymers can switch functions from storage to protectant or public good.•Metabolism of specialized biopolymers is closely linked to central metabolism/signaling pathways.