Engineered Living Materials: Blending Biology and Engineering

The chapter delves into the innovative concept of engineered living materials, combining living cells with non-living matrices to create materials with unique functions like self-healing and replication. It explores applications in sustainable construction, environmental remediation, medical therapies, and bio-manufacturing, showcasing the potential transformative impact of these materials inspired by biology. The discussion also highlights a breakthrough in engineering plant living materials using genetically modified plant cells, gelatin, and bacteria to create customizable, self-sustaining living structures through 3D printing.