The Potential of Engineered Living Materials for Functional Outputs

The Potential of Engineered Living Materials for Functional Outputs

Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) is a versatile and widely used thermoplastic polymer known for its durability and resistance to impact. However, it is important to note that ABS is flammable when exposed to high temperatures, such as those in a wood fire. When ABS melts and then boils, it releases vapors that can ignite into intense and hot flames. The combustion of pure ABS does not typically produce persistent organic pollutants, as it does not contain halogens. The most toxic byproducts of its combustion or pyrolysis are carbon monoxide and hydrogen cyanide.

On the other hand, the field of engineered living materials (ELMs) aims to design programmable materials by integrating genetically modified biological components into a composite material. These materials can produce functional outputs in response to environmental signals. Various microorganisms, including bacteria, yeasts, fungi, and algae, have been used in ELMs for applications ranging from wound healing adhesives to biodegradable plastics.

A recent study published in Nature Communications explored the use of 3D printing to fabricate a biocomposite material containing cyanobacteria. The researchers demonstrated the advantages of additive manufacturing techniques in controlling the shape of the fabricated photosynthetic material. Synthetic polymer materials responsive to stimuli have also been developed to detect and respond to different environmental conditions such as chemicals, pH, light, and temperature.

ELMs offer a wide range of functional outputs in response to specific environmental stimuli. For example, they can be programmed to deactivate threats, provide cyclic thermal insulation, initiate therapeutic production in response to disease states, and act as living conductive biofilms. By integrating genetically modified, stimulus-responsive cyanobacteria into 3D-printed volumetric designs, researchers have developed programmable biocomposite materials capable of producing functional outcomes, including bioremediation.

The use of synthetic riboswitches, which are genetic switches that detect chemical signals, further enhances the functionality of ELMs. Riboswitches can regulate mRNA expression by forming alternative structures in response to specific ligand binding. The incorporation of cyanobacteria, such as Synechococcus elongatus, known for its rapid autotrophic growth and genetic modifiability, adds to the potential of ELMs for producing useful chemicals.

In particular, the inclusion of oxidative lacase enzymes in ELMs offers the ability to oxidize a wide range of phenolic compounds. Lacase enzymes are considered environmentally friendly as they require molecular oxygen as a co-substrate and produce water as the sole byproduct. The engineered cells in ELMs are designed for inducible cell death, allowing for their elimination when their activity is no longer required. This function is crucial for biocontainment and minimizing environmental impact.

To leverage the potential of engineered living materials, here are three actionable pieces of advice:

1. Foster interdisciplinary collaborations: ELMs require expertise from various fields, including biology, materials science, and engineering. By fostering collaborations between researchers from different disciplines, new insights and innovative approaches can be developed.

2. Invest in advanced manufacturing techniques: Additive manufacturing techniques, such as 3D printing, enable precise control over the shape and structure of ELMs. Investing in advanced manufacturing technologies can enhance the fabrication process and optimize the functional outputs of ELMs.

3. Prioritize safety and ethical considerations: As ELMs involve the use of genetically modified organisms, it is crucial to prioritize safety and ethical considerations. Conduct thorough risk assessments and adhere to regulatory guidelines to ensure the responsible development and application of ELMs.

In conclusion, engineered living materials hold great potential for producing functional outputs in response to environmental stimuli. By integrating genetically modified microorganisms, such as cyanobacteria, into composite materials, researchers have demonstrated the ability to create programmable materials for applications ranging from bioremediation to therapeutics. However, interdisciplinary collaborations, investment in advanced manufacturing techniques, and prioritization of safety and ethical considerations are essential for realizing the full potential of ELMs.