Incorporating microorganisms into polymer layers provides bioinspired functional living materials

Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 2012 Jan 3;109(1):90-4. doi: 10.1073/pnas.1115381109. Epub 2011 Dec 22.

Abstract

Artificial two-dimensional biological habitats were prepared from porous polymer layers and inoculated with the fungus Penicillium roqueforti to provide a living material. Such composites of classical industrial ingredients and living microorganisms can provide a novel form of functional or smart materials with capability for evolutionary adaptation. This allows realization of most complex responses to environmental stimuli. As a conceptual design, we prepared a material surface with self-cleaning capability when subjected to standardized food spill. Fungal growth and reproduction were observed in between two specifically adapted polymer layers. Gas exchange for breathing and transport of nutrient through a nano-porous top layer allowed selective intake of food whilst limiting the microorganism to dwell exclusively in between a confined, well-enclosed area of the material. We demonstrated a design of such living materials and showed both active (eating) and waiting (dormant, hibernation) states with additional recovery for reinitiation of a new active state by observing the metabolic activity over two full nutrition cycles of the living material (active, hibernation, reactivation). This novel class of living materials can be expected to provide nonclassical solutions in consumer goods such as packaging, indoor surfaces, and in biotechnology.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Biocompatible Materials / pharmacology*
  • Culture Media / pharmacology
  • Disinfection
  • Microbial Viability / drug effects
  • Microscopy, Electron, Scanning
  • Penicillium / drug effects
  • Penicillium / metabolism*
  • Polymers / chemistry*
  • Porosity / drug effects
  • Surface Properties / drug effects

Substances

  • Biocompatible Materials
  • Culture Media
  • Polymers