Translating Gene Expression to Material Properties via Programmable Biomaterials
Abstract
Biological materials exhibit a variety of programmable, adaptable, and responsive functions enabled by complex communication between individual cells as well as between cells and the extracellular environment. Developing engineered materials with analogous properties would be transformative to several fields including living materials, soft electronics, additive manufacturing, and tissue engineering. However, deriving engineering rules that translate biology s central dogma to predictable changes in material properties has proven extremely challenging. To address this challenge, the overall goal of our proposal is to elucidate programming rules that relate gene expression to predictable changes in material properties. We will accomplish this goal though three objectives. First, we will develop quantitative relationships between gene-protein expression and material properties. Our initial engineering targets will be semi-synthetic hydrogels formed by electroactive bacteria. Second, we will apply fundamental insights from Objective 1 to a broader range of genetic networks and materials to create programmable materials that respond to genetic logic including Boolean logic gates and feedforward loops. Finally, we will leverage our understanding of cell growth, differentiation, gene expression, and materials properties to construct complex, hierarchical materials using synthetic consortia of bacteria. Overall, our proposal will provide insight into the fundamental concepts underlying the complexity of biological tissues, establish a universal means for bridging the biotic-abiotic interface, and initiate new methods to genetically program highly responsive and adaptable materials with applications in resource limited settings.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Feb 06, 2025
- Source ID
- FA95502410273
Entities
People
- Benjamin K Keitz
Organizations
- Air Force Office of Scientific Research
- United States Air Force
- University of Texas at Austin