Mechanochemical engineering of 2D materials for multiscale biointerfaces.

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Biotechnology
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Atomically thin nanomaterials, particularly two-dimensional (2D) materials, possess unique properties like mechanical flexibility, large interfacial area, and facile chemical functionalization.
• These 2D materials can deform, bend, and fold in response to biological forces and external stimuli, enabling origami-like structures.
• Such mechanical manipulation leads to wrinkled or crumpled topographies that allow for large deformations via accordion-like unfolding, crucial for stretchable and shape-changing devices.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the interactions between mechanically manipulated 2D materials and biological systems across various length scales.
• To highlight recent advancements where the wrinkling, crumpling, or bending of 2D materials unlock novel chemical and material properties.
• To explore the potential of these materials in diverse applications, including sensing, cell manipulation, robotics, and wearable technology.

Main Methods:

• Review of recent scientific literature focusing on mechanically manipulated 2D materials and their biological interfaces.
• Analysis of case studies demonstrating the application of 2D material deformation in specific biological contexts.
• Discussion of future directions in manufacturing, integration, and biocompatibility.

Main Results:

• Mechanically manipulated 2D materials enable programming of biomolecular reactivity and enhanced sensing capabilities.
• These materials facilitate directed adhesion and encapsulation of both bacteria and mammalian cells.
• Applications include stimuli-responsive actuators, soft robotics, stretchable barrier technologies, and wearable human-scale sensors.

Conclusions:

• Mechanically manipulated 2D materials offer a versatile platform for interfacing with biological systems.
• These materials hold significant promise for developing ultrasensitive molecular detection systems, advanced biomaterial scaffolds, soft machines, and next-generation wearable technologies.
• Further research into manufacturing, systems integration, and biocompatibility will be key to realizing their full potential.