Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 29, 2025

Two Methods for Decellularization of Plant Tissues for Tissue Engineering Applications
Published on: May 31, 2018
Engineering Themes in Plant Forms and Functions
Rahel Ohlendorf1, Nathanael Yi-Hsuen Tan1, Naomi Nakayama1
1Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom;
Abstract:
Living structures constantly interact with the biotic and abiotic environment by sensing and responding via specialized functional parts. In other words, biological bodies embody highly functional machines and actuators. What are the signatures of engineering mechanisms in biology? In this review, we connect the dots in the literature to seek engineering principles in plant structures. We identify three thematic motifs-bilayer actuator, slender-bodied functional surface, and self-similarity-and provide an overview of their structure-function relationships. Unlike human-engineered machines and actuators, biological counterparts may appear suboptimal in design, loosely complying with physical theories or engineering principles. We postulate what factors may influence the evolution of functional morphology and anatomy to dissect and comprehend better the why behind the biological forms.
More Related Videos
11:48Microscopy Techniques for Interpreting Fungal Colonization in Mycoheterotrophic Plants Tissues and Symbiotic Germination of Seeds
Published on: May 17, 2022
06:04Author Spotlight: Innovative Approaches to Understanding Plant Structure-Function Relationships for Climate-Resilient Crops
Published on: July 12, 2024
Related Concept Videos
Plant Tissues
Morphogenesis
Introduction to Plant Diversity
Basic Plant Anatomy: Roots, Stems, and Leaves
Plant Cells and Tissues
Light Acquisition