4/11 – Sara Molinari, University of Maryland – College Park
Biomedical Engineering Seminar
April 11, 2025
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Location
BME Seminar in SEO 236
Address
851 S Morgan St, Chicago, IL 60607
Calendar
Download iCal FileSpeaker:
Sara Molinari, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor
Fischell Department of Bioengineering
University of Maryland College Park
Title: De novo-engineered living materials from bacteria
Abstract: Engineered Living Materials (ELMs) are composites that integrate cells within a biopolymer matrix, drawing inspiration from natural living materials but enhanced with synthetic biology to include novel properties. The matrix plays a crucial role, defining the mechanical properties of ELMs by shaping their structure and function. The challenge of engineering cells to self-organize within a genetically encoded synthetic matrix has been significant. Previously, macroscopic ELMs typically required external assembly processes or relied on natural biomaterials, offering limited tunability. We have pioneered the creation of the first macroscopic de novo ELM, which is cultivated from Caulobacter crescentus engineered to express self-interacting proteins. This breakthrough involved developing a synthetic extracellular matrix that supports the growth of living materials on a centimeter scale. Remarkably, the mechanical properties of these de novo ELMs can be precisely controlled through genetic alterations of the matrix proteins. Furthermore, the methodologies established with C. crescentus have been successfully applied to engineer de novo ELMs in other bacterial species. This work sets a solid foundation for the development of ELMs with specific properties, advancing the creation of versatile and multifunctional biomaterials.
Date posted
Jan 13, 2025
Date updated
Mar 17, 2025