Biomimetic Approach Research Articles

2D STATIC AND 3D DYNAMIC CO-CULTURES OF HUMAN BONE MARROW MESENCHYMAL STEM CELLS AS NOVEL IN VITRO BIOENGINEERED MYOGENIC MODELS

Spontaneous muscle regenerative potential is limited, as severe injuries incompletely recover and result in chronic inflammation. Current therapies are restricted to conservative management, not providing a complete restitutio ad integrum; therefore, alternative therapeutic strategies are welcome, such as cell-based therapies with stem cells or Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells (PBMCs). Here, we described two different in vitro myogenic models: a 2D perfused system and a 3D bioengineered scaffold within a perfusion bioreactor. Both models were assembled with human bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hBM-MSCs) and human primary skeletal myoblasts (hSkMs) to study induction and maintenance of myogenic phenotype in presence of PBMCs. When hBM-MSCs were cultured with human primary skeletal myoblasts (hSkMs) in medium supplemented with 10 ng/mL of bFGF; cells showed increased expression of myogenic-related gene, such as Desmin and Myosin Heavy Chain II (MYH2) after 21 days, and a prevalent expression of anti-inflammatory cytokines (IL10, 15-fold). Next, PBMCs were added in an upper transwell chamber and hBM-MSCs significantly upregulated myogenic genes throughout the culture period, while pro-inflammatory cytokines (e.g., IL12A) were downregulated. In 3D, hBM-MSCs plus hSkMs embedded in fibrin-based scaffolds, cultured in dynamic conditions, showed that all myogenic-related genes tended to be upregulated in the presence of PBMCs, and Desmin and MYH2 were also detected at protein level, while pro-inflammatory cytokine genes were significantly downregulated in the presence of PBMCs. In conclusion, our works suggest that hBM-MSCs have a versatile myogenic potential, enhanced and modulated by PMBCs. Moreover, our 3D biomimetic approach seemed to better resemble the tissue architecture allowing an efficient in vitro cellular cross-talk.

Functionalization of lime mortars and plasters: A biomimetic approach

Lime mortars and plasters have been used as building materials since the origins of pyrotechnology in the Levant ca. 12,000-14,000 years ago, and currently are experiencing a revival as compatible and sustainable materials in heritage conservation and modern construction. Extensive research has recently explored ways to improve their properties, particularly using Nature as an inspiration. Such a biomimetic approach is enabling the functionalization of lime mortars and plasters via different strategies that are reviewed here and include accelerated setting via enzymatic-like catalyzed carbonation, increased toughness via inter- and intracrystalline additive incorporation, modification of surface wettability and enhanced self-cleaning ability via surface microtexturing and photoactive nanoparticle incorporation, anti-biofouling capacity, increased radiative cooling, or self-healing properties.

A biomimetic approach to lycogarubin C, lynamicin D and related analogues.

An efficient and biomimetic synthetic approach to 3,4-diindolylpyrrole-2,5-dicarboxylate derivatives, including lycogarubin C, lynamicin D and related analogues, was discovered. The crucial transformation included the one-pot formation of two C-N bonds and one C-C bond to construct characteristic pyrrole rings.

Biomimetic Approaches to Sustainable Commercial Buildings in Nigeria: Adaptation from Natural Ecosystem

The construction and operation of commercial buildings in Nigeria pose significant challenges to sustainability, characterized by high resource consumption, energy inefficiency, and environmental degradation. This paper introduces the concept of biomimicry as a promising approach to address these challenges by drawing inspiration from nature's designs and processes (Benyus, 1997). It highlights the urgent need to transition towards environmentally conscious practices within the construction industry to mitigate the adverse impacts of commercial building activities on the environment. The study aims to explore and analyze biomimetic principles applicable to sustainable building design such as inspirations from termite mounds and rainforest canopies, evaluate their potential impact on commercial buildings in Nigeria, and propose practical applications tailored to the country's unique environmental, social, and economic contexts. The key findings of the study indicate that integrating biomimetic design principles into the construction and operation of commercial buildings in Nigeria can result in enhanced energy efficiency and a decreased environmental footprint. Biomimetic approaches inspired by natural systems, such as the temperature regulation of termite mounds (Billings, 2013), can inform the design of passive heating and cooling systems, leading to reduced energy consumption. Similarly, biomimetic designs can improve ventilation, water management, and insulation, minimizing the overall environmental impact of commercial buildings. The research provides actionable insights for architects, engineers, and policymakers, enabling them to design and construct commercial buildings that seamlessly integrate with the environment.

Biological and Physical Characterization of Surface-Modified Grade V Titanium Alloy.

Surface modification and biomimetic approaches have been widely used to enhance bioinert substances. It is not very clear whether surface alterations and polymer coatings on titanium make it more biologically active and enhance cell adhesion. We tried to focus on the physical and biological characterization of surface-modified titanium disks. Four different surface modifications were done for the titanium disks, ranging from acid etching, sandblasting, polydopamine coating, and polydopamine-based chitosan coating, and were compared with disks without any surface modification. The disks were studied for physical characteristics like surface roughness and contact angle. Human gingival fibroblasts were used to investigate the biological effects of surface modification of titanium alloy surfaces. The wettability of chitosan-coated, acid-etched, and polydopamine-coated titanium was much better than that of the sandblasted surface, indicating that surface energy was higher for acid-etched and coated surfaces than others. The cell seeding with fibroblasts showed increased adhesion to the smoother surfaces as compared to the rougher surfaces. Polydopamine coatings on titanium disks showed the most favorable physical and biological properties compared to others and can be a good surface coating for in vivo implants.

Preparation and characterization of macrophage membrane camouflaged cubosomes as a stabilized and immune evasive biomimetic nano-DDS.

This study aims to develop a biomimetic nano-drug delivery system (nano-DDS) by employing a macrophage cell membrane camouflaging strategy to modify lyotropic liquid crystal nanoparticles (LLC-NPs). The cubic-structured LLC-NPs (Cubosomes, CBs) were prepared via a top-down approach (ultra-sonification) using monoolein (MO) and doped with the cationic lipid, DOTAP. The cell membrane camouflaging procedure induced changes in the cubic lipid phase from primitive cubic phase (QIIP) to a coexistence of QIIP and diamond cubic phase (QIID). The macrophage membrane camouflaging strategy protected CB cores from the destabilization by blood plasma and enhanced the stability of CBs. The in vitro experiment results revealed that the macrophage cell membrane coating significantly reduced macrophage uptake efficacy within 8 h of incubation compared to the non-camouflaged CBs, while it had minimal impact on cancer cell uptake efficacy. The macrophage membrane coated CBs showed lower accumulation in the heart, kidney and lungs in vivo. This study demonstrated the feasibility of employing cell membrane camouflaging on CBs and confirmed that the bio-functionalities of the CBs-based biomimetic nano-DDS were retained from the membrane source cells, and opened up promising possibilities for developing an efficient and safe drug delivery system based on the biomimetic approach.

Application of a calcium and phosphorus biomineralization strategy in tooth repair: a systematic review.

Biomineralization is a natural process in which organisms regulate the growth of inorganic minerals to form biominerals with unique layered structures, such as bones and teeth, primarily composed of calcium and phosphorus. Tooth decay significantly impacts our daily lives, and the key to tooth regeneration lies in restoring teeth through biomimetic approaches, utilizing mineralization strategies or materials that mimic natural processes. This review delves into the types, properties, and transformations of calcium and phosphorus minerals, followed by an exploration of the mechanisms behind physiological and pathological mineralization in living organisms. It summarizes the mechanisms and commonalities of biomineralization and discusses the advancements in dental biomineralization research, guided by insights into calcium and phosphorus mineral biomineralization. This review concludes by addressing the current challenges and future directions in the field of dental biomimetic mineralization.

Synthesis of the bicyclic butenolide core of pallamolide A: a biomimetic approach.

Pallamolide A is a 7,8-seco-labdane terpenoid possessing a unique bicyclo[2.2.2]octane core and a spiro-butenolide moiety. A biomimetic synthesis of the bicyclic butenolide core over 10 steps is reported, featuring an unexpected autoxidation ring opening, and a vinylogous Mukaiyama aldol reaction which was spontaneously followed by an unusual intramolecular vinylogous aldol reaction to assemble the spiro-butenolide moiety and bicyclic core of pallamolide A.

Opportunities and challenges for plastic depolymerization by biomimetic catalysis.

Plastic waste has imposed significant burdens on the environment. Chemical recycling allows for repeated regeneration of plastics without deterioration in quality, but often requires harsh reaction conditions, thus being environmentally unfriendly. Enzymatic catalysis offers a promising solution for recycling under mild conditions, but it faces inherent limitations such as poor stability, high cost, and narrow substrate applicability. Biomimetic catalysis may provide a new avenue by combining high enzyme-like activity with the stability of inorganic materials. Biomimetic catalysis has demonstrated great potential in biomass conversion and has recently shown promising progress in plastic degradation. This perspective discusses biomimetic catalysis for plastic degradation from two perspectives: the imitation of the active centers and the imitation of the substrate-binding clefts. Given the chemical similarity between biomass and plastics, relevant work is also included in the discussion to draw inspiration. We conclude this perspective by highlighting the challenges and opportunities in achieving sustainable plastic recycling via a biomimetic approach.

Engineering sulfated polysaccharides and silk fibroin based injectable IPN hydrogels with stiffening and growth factor presentation abilities for cartilage tissue engineering.

The extracellular matrix (ECM) presents a framework for various biological cues and regulates homeostasis during both developing and mature stages of tissues. During development of cartilage, the ECM plays a critical role in endowing both biophysical and biochemical cues to the progenitor cells. Hence, designing microenvironments that recapitulate these biological cues as provided by the ECM during development may facilitate the engineering of cartilage tissue. In the present study, we fabricated an injectable interpenetrating hydrogel (IPN) system which serves as an artificial ECM and provides chondro-inductive niches for the differentiation of stem cells to chondrocytes. The hydrogel was designed to replicate the gradual stiffening (as a biophysical cue) and the presentation of growth factors (as a biochemical cue) as provided by the natural ECM of the tissue, thus exemplifying a biomimetic approach. This dynamic stiffening was achieved by incorporating silk fibroin, while the growth factor presentation was accomplished using sulfated-carboxymethyl cellulose. Silk fibroin and sulfated-carboxymethyl cellulose (s-CMC) were combined with tyraminated-carboxymethyl cellulose (t-CMC) and crosslinked using HRP/H2O2 to fabricate s-CMC/t-CMC/silk IPN hydrogels. Initially, the fabricated hydrogel imparted a soft microenvironment to promote chondrogenic differentiation, and with time it gradually stiffened to offer mechanical support to the joint. Additionally, the presence of s-CMC conferred the hydrogel with the property of sequestering cationic growth factors such as TGF-β and allowing their prolonged presentation to the cells. More importantly, TGF-β loaded in the developed hydrogel system remained active and induced chondrogenic differentiation of stem cells, resulting in the deposition of cartilage ECM components which was comparable to the hydrogels that were treated with TGF-β provided through media. Overall, the developed hydrogel system acts as a reservoir of the necessary biological cues for cartilage regeneration and simultaneously provides mechanical support for load-bearing tissues such as cartilage.

Highly chemoselective oxidative dimerization of indolosesquiterpene alkaloids: a biomimetic approach to dixiamycin.

Dimeric indolosesquiterpene alkaloids, typically N-N- and C-N-linked xiamycin dimers, feature a pentacyclic framework with four contiguous stereogenic centers at the periphery of a trans-decalin scaffold to which a carbazole unit is attached. In comparison with actual biosynthetic dixiamycin derivatives, we designed C-C-linked xiamycin dimers, aiming to use them as a powerful tool to create unique scaffolds as drug candidates. In this work, we disclose the first synthetic route to access a C-C dimeric indolosesquiterpene skeleton, featuring a hypervalent iodine (PIFA)-catalyzed oxidative dimerization reaction in a single-step operation with overwhelming control over the chemoselectivity and regioselectivity. This strategy has been successfully applied to the synthesis of a C-C dimer of xiamycin A (3) and xiamycin A methyl ester (15) that demonstrates a new synthetic pathway for dimeric indolosesquiterpene alkaloids.

Cell membrane-coated biomimetic nanomedicines: productive cancer theranostic tools.

As the second-leading cause of human death, cancer has drawn attention in the area of biomedical research and therapy from all around the world. Certainly, the development of nanotechnology has made it possible for nanoparticles (NPs) to be used as a carrier for delivery systems in the treatment of tumors. This is a biomimetic approach established to craft remedial strategies comprising NPs cloaked with membrane obtained from various natural cells like blood cells, bacterial cells, cancer cells, etc. Here we conduct an in-depth exploration of cell membrane-coated NPs (CMNPs) and their extensive array of applications including drug delivery, vaccination, phototherapy, immunotherapy, MRI imaging, PET imaging, multimodal imaging, gene therapy and a combination of photothermal and chemotherapy. This review article provides a thorough summary of the most recent developments in the use of CMNPs for the diagnosis and treatment of cancer. It critically assesses the state of research while recognizing significant accomplishments and innovations. Additionally, it indicates ongoing problems in clinical translation and associated queries that warrant deeper research. By doing so, this study encourages creative thinking for future projects in the field of tumor therapy using CMNPs while also educating academics on the present status of CMNP research.

Biomimicry as a sustainable solution in Architecture: Analytical study

Nature has been the primary inspiration for architecture since its very beginnings, and there are many facets and levels of this inspiration in architecture, starting from the stage of direct imitation of the formal aspects and proportions, passing through the aspects of masses and construction, all the way to the deep levels and principles upon which nature is based and achieving its sustainability. Therefore, the architecture, in the current time and for future times, is directed towards simulating the deep aspects of biological systems and taking advantage of their features, such as self-organization, adaptation, flexibility, and efficiency, in a way that achieves the desired goal of architecture, which is its sustainability. This is also through the emergence of the term (biomimetic), which the research focuses on for its ability to combine biology and architecture. From a review of the literature that dealt with this term, the research problem emerged as “the lack of clarity about biomimicry as a strategy aims at achieving aspects of sustainability.” Hence, the research objective was defined by determining the possibility of benefiting from the trend of biomimicry as a tool and strategy for achieving sustainability while studying its applications in design and architecture. To achieve the research objective, a descriptive and analytical approach was adopted, in addition to several procedural steps, the first related to the theoretical aspects of the topic and building a theoretical framework for it. The second step was the practical study by analyzing a few approved projects. The last (third) procedural step was to draw results and conclusions. The research reached several conclusions that reflect the role of adopting the biomimetic approach in enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of architecture and its sustainability and emphasizing the achievement of architecture responsive to environmental conditions by enhancing its natural systems to increase their efficiency and suitability to the requirements of development. The research also concluded that this approach will determine the path of contemporary and future architecture by approaching biological principles with architectural principles.

Biomimetic approach to dental tissue restorations: Which biomaterials, which prospects?

Les dents constituent un organe particulier. Elles permettent la fonction masticatrice, participent à la phonation et ont un rôle important dans les relations sociales. Elles doivent résister à des variations de température, comprises entre 5 °C et 55 °C, aux contraintes mécaniques de la mastication, et aux acides présents dans l’alimentation.

An Electrochemical Biomolecular Sensors Based on Polymeric Ion Conducting Nanopores for Medical Diagnostics

In a biomimetic approach, the functionality of biological nanopores in living cells has been copied in order to create polymeric nanochannels. In analogy to the antitype in nature, the nanochannels are able to respond to the presence of a certain biomolecule to be detected in a way that an electrolyte ion current in an electrochemical set-up is influenced. By measuring this trans-nanochannel ion current, the molecule to be analyzed can be quantitatively determined. As an example, the fabrication and functionality of such a nanochannel-sensor for the biomolecule histamine is demonstrated and explained.

An Electrochemical Biomolecular Sensors Based on Polymeric Ion Conducting Nanopores for Medical Diagnostics

In a biomimetic approach, the functionality of biological nanopores in living cells has been copied in order to create polymeric nanochannels. In analogy to the antitype in nature, the nanochannels are able to respond to the presence of a certain biomolecule to be detected in a way that an electrolyte ion current in an electrochemical set-up is influenced. By measuring this trans-nanochannel ion current, the molecule to be analyzed can be quantitatively determined. As an example, the fabrication and functionality of such a nanochannel-sensor for the biomolecule histamine is demonstrated and explained.

Application of a Biomimetic Approach in the Design Exploration of the Indonesian Red Cross Memorial Covid 19 Volunteer Monument, Tangerang Regency

Coronavirus Disease 2019 (Covid-19) has been declared a global pandemic by the World Health Organization (WHO) and a national disaster by the Indonesian government since March 2020. The high speed of the virus' spread has caused an enormous multidimensional crisis in terms of health, social, and economic aspects all over the world, including Indonesia. As of May 8, 2023, Covid-19 has infected 6,787,354 people, with 161,459 of them having died. Among the many victims, there are also many volunteers who have fallen while serving the community in dealing with the pandemic. To commemorate the fallen volunteers, the Indonesian Red Cross of Tangerang Regency plans to immortalize them through a monument in the Solear area, Tangerang Regency, Banten. This monument is intended as a place to remember the fallen volunteers for their families, colleagues, and the public. The Architecture Student Association (Gamatara) of UPH had the opportunity to contribute their design ideas in the framework of community service. The approach used in developing the design of this monument is biomimetic. Biomimetic architecture is defined as the science and art of designing buildings by imitating aspects of nature as examples, models, references, and guidelines for solving problems in architecture. In the design of this monument, biomimetic is applied to make nature an inspiration for form. This approach is used as the actualization of the symbol that the way to prevent pandemics like this in the future is through harmonization with nature. This approach can be seen as the application of metaphor, prioritizing conceptual and visual synergy. The bamboo shoot shape was chosen as an appropriate metaphor that depicts resilience and the emergence of new hope. The design exploration is directed towards combining the form and the resulting spatial experience to create a sense of place and a meditative reflection space that supports activities.

Quercetin-loaded PLGA nanoparticles coating with macrophage membranes for targeted delivery in acute liver injury

Quercetin (QU), a natural flavonoid with potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, holds promise in treating acute liver injury (ALI). Nonetheless, its limited solubility hampers its efficacy, and its systemic distribution lacks targeting, leading to off-target effects. To address these challenges, we developed macrophage membrane-coated quercetin-loaded PLGA nanoparticles (MVs-QU-NPs) for active ALI targeting. The resulting MVs-QU-NPs exhibited a spherical morphology with a clear core–shell structure. The average size and zeta potential were assessed as 141.70 ± 0.89 nm and –31.83 ± 0.76 mV, respectively. Further studies revealed sustained drug release characteristics from MVs-QU-NPs over a continuous period of 24 h. Moreover, these MVs-QU-NPs demonstrated excellent biocompatibility when tested on normal liver cells. The results of biodistribution analysis in ALI mice displayed the remarkable ALI-targeting ability of MVs-DiD-NPs, with the highest fluorescence intensity observed in liver tissue. This biomimetic approach combining macrophage membranes with nanoparticle delivery, holds great potential for targeted ALI treatment.

Tunable architectures in Al/Al2O3 composites for enhanced damage tolerance using zirconium acetate-mediated ice-templating

Achieving lightweight, robust, and resilient materials is a sought-after goal, yet concurrently achieving these attributes presents a substantial challenge. A biomimetic design approach opens doors to innovative possibilities in this domain. In this paper, we use the ice-shaping properties of zirconium acetate (ZRA) to obtain Al/Al2O3 composites with tunable architectures through freeze casting and pressure infiltration. The concentration of ZRA in the initial slurry is critical in controlling the final structure of the composites. The composites’ bending strength, compressive strength, and crack-initiation fracture toughness KIc improve with increasing ZRA concentration in the initial slurry. Interestingly, the crack-extension fracture toughness KJc demonstrates an initial decrease followed by subsequent improvement. In addition, the relationship between cracking mode and structural features in the composites is elucidated to explain the underlying strengthening and toughening mechanisms. This tunable and scale-able ice-templating and manufacturing approach opens new doors for developing high-performance metal-ceramic composites.

A methodological approach towards the bio-inspired design of novel scaffolds for tissue engineering

The design of scaffolds for multi-tissue regeneration is very complex in terms of material and structure, as a direct consequence of hierarchical and organizational features. TRIZ represents the Russian acronym for the “Theory of Inventive Problem Solving” (TIPS). TRIZ is able to identify and codify such principles, using them to make the creative process more predictable. It is a methodology for the identification of the system conflicts and contradictions in order to solve the inventive problems. Its multidisciplinary features and the general approach to product design can make TRIZ as an intriguing starting point for the biomimetic approach in a systematic and organized way. Biomimetics aims at a complete integration between nature and technology. In this scenario, BioTRIZ shares the contradiction resolution method of the Altshuller’s theory, representing a systematic biomimetic approach towards the product design. In the current study, BioTRIZ was considered to systematize the process of bio-inspired design of 3D optimized scaffolds for the regeneration of complex tissue defects. A device for the regeneration of osteochondral tissue defects was considered as a case study. The technical solutions involved the design of a two-compartment, hybrid and functionally graded scaffold.