Synthetic Biology and Biofilms
摘要
Synthetic biology research provides a platform for living cells to take on new roles, with applications extending from environmental biosensing to novel therapeutic approaches. While there have been significant advancements in synthetic biology, modifying bacteria to perform various functions outside of controlled laboratory conditions is challenging. Many bacteria naturally form a protective layer known as a biofilm. Although biofilms are often viewed as environmental hazards, their unique structure and behaviors can be leveraged in synthetic biology to develop more robust bacterial strains. Within biofilms, bacteria engage in cooperative organization and cell-to-cell signaling, which increases their resistance to external stresses. Optimizing the metabolic processes within biofilms can enhance their production, making them useful for various applications, such as wastewater treatment. Material scientists typically consider biofilms as adverse, whereas synthetic biologists view them as valuable biomaterials. Future advancements in synthetic biology related to biofilms could prove beneficial in medicine, biomanufacturing, and environmental remediation.