Phenotypically complex living materials containing engineered cyanobacteria

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Synthetic Biology
• Biotechnology

Background:

• Engineered living materials integrate biological components with material science for responsive applications.
• Cyanobacteria offer a photosynthetic chassis for developing self-sustaining, functional biomaterials.

Purpose of the Study:

• To fabricate and demonstrate a 3D-printed cyanobacterial biocomposite material.
• To engineer the material for sensing chemical stimuli and producing functional outputs.
• To explore applications in environmental bioremediation and biocontainment.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing 3D printing (additive manufacturing) to create complex shapes with cyanobacteria in a hydrogel matrix.
• Employing synthetic biology tools, including riboswitches, to control gene expression (e.g., fluorescent protein reporters).
• Engineering cyanobacteria strains for specific functions like dye decolorization (laccase enzyme) and inducible cell death.

Main Results:

• Successfully 3D printed cyanobacterial biocomposites with controlled shapes.
• Demonstrated stimulus-responsive gene expression using a synthetic riboswitch.
• Showcased the material's ability to decolorize indigo carmine dye, indicating bioremediation potential.
• Engineered inducible cell death for biocontainment and environmental safety.

Conclusions:

• 3D printing enables the creation of programmable, stimuli-responsive photosynthetic biocomposite materials.
• Engineered cyanobacteria within these materials can perform valuable functions like bioremediation.
• The developed technology offers a platform for advanced living materials with applications in environmental management and beyond.