Team:KU Leuven/Future/More applications
More Applications
First of all, our project has the goal to unravel the secrets of nature according to pattern formation. A better understanding of the pattern formation process in combination with the appropriate and detailed predictive mathematical models will also be advantageous in many different fields.
Tumor formation and the development of metastasis
Tumor formation and tissue regeneration are a couple of examples in which the medical world could benefit from a deeper, fundamental knowledge of pattern formation. Since, most cancer starts as a disease in which the tissue pattern formation is aberrant, a deeper insight in the process could result in a different approache to the treatment of certain cancer.
Miniature electrical conductors
In the long term, the ability to construct predesigned patterns of bacteria could lead to applications in miniature electrical conductors and/or electrical circuits as well. The first step is to create the desired pattern, whereafter the bacteria can deposit electrical conducting substances.
Novel biomaterials
Since the beginning of the industrial revolution, people used mainly concrete, cement and bricks as the main construction material. This situation remained largely unquestioned for more than 150 years. However quite recently, climate change and resource limitations are challenging these to remain the number one materials. In the search for new biobricks, the idea to use bacteria comes more and more into the picture. Initiatives like ‘the bacteria grown bricks from BioMason’ and ‘the sand solidifying bacteria Sporosarcina pasteurii from Dupe’ has shown that the idea of using bacteria for construction materials isn’t too futuristic, but can be useful. Biomaterials can also offer excellent features like flame-resistance, eco-friendliness and sometimes even great insulation properties.
The generation of patterns in a controlled way will allow the production of novel biomaterials. After forming a pattern, the cells can be engineered to precipitate or deposit networked biominerals, opening up exciting new avenues for the production of microstructured biocomposite materials. In order to do this, we should try start working on 3D modeling of our patterns in parallel with the development of 3D biological patterns. Another way to face the 3D challenge, could be to work together with the TU Delft. They invented an advanced 3D printer that could be used for the production of biomaterials. For more information about this future collaboration, click on the following link: Future collaboration with TU Delft,
Contact
Address: Celestijnenlaan 200G room 00.08 - 3001 Heverlee
Telephone: +32(0)16 32 73 19
Email: igem@chem.kuleuven.be
