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Płachno BJ, Kapusta M, Stolarczyk P, Feldo M, Świątek P. Do Arabinogalactan Proteins Occur in the Transfer Cells of Utricularia dichotoma? Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:6623. [PMID: 38928328 PMCID: PMC11204157 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25126623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2024] [Revised: 06/05/2024] [Accepted: 06/14/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Species in the genus Utricularia are carnivorous plants that prey on invertebrates using traps of leaf origin. The traps are equipped with numerous different glandular trichomes. Trichomes (quadrifids) produce digestive enzymes and absorb the products of prey digestion. The main aim of this study was to determine whether arabinogalactan proteins (AGPs) occur in the cell wall ingrowths in the quadrifid cells. Antibodies (JIM8, JIM13, JIM14, MAC207, and JIM4) that act against various groups of AGPs were used. AGP localization was determined using immunohistochemistry techniques and immunogold labeling. AGPs localized with the JIM13, JIM8, and JIM14 epitopes occurred in wall ingrowths of the pedestal cell, which may be related to the fact that AGPs regulate the formation of wall ingrowths but also, due to the patterning of the cell wall structure, affect symplastic transport. The presence of AGPs in the cell wall of terminal cells may be related to the presence of wall ingrowths, but processes also involve vesicle trafficking and membrane recycling, in which these proteins participate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bartosz J. Płachno
- Department of Plant Cytology and Embryology, Institute of Botany, Faculty of Biology, Jagiellonian University in Kraków, 9 Gronostajowa St., 30-387 Kraków, Poland
| | - Małgorzata Kapusta
- Bioimaging Laboratory, Faculty of Biology, University of Gdańsk, 59 Wita Stwosza St., 80-308 Gdańsk, Poland;
| | - Piotr Stolarczyk
- Department of Botany, Physiology and Plant Protection, Faculty of Biotechnology and Horticulture, University of Agriculture in Kraków, 29 Listopada 54 Ave., 31-425 Kraków, Poland;
| | - Marcin Feldo
- Department of Vascular Surgery and Angiology, Medical University of Lublin, 16 Staszica St., 20-081 Lublin, Poland;
| | - Piotr Świątek
- Institute of Biology, Biotechnology and Environmental Protection, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Silesia in Katowice, 9 Bankowa St., 40-007 Katowice, Poland;
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2
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Kumar V, Satapathy DK. Vapor and Light Responsive Biocompatible Soft Actuator. LANGMUIR : THE ACS JOURNAL OF SURFACES AND COLLOIDS 2024; 40:11206-11214. [PMID: 38748983 DOI: 10.1021/acs.langmuir.4c00861] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
Bioinspired smart polymeric materials that undergo three-dimensional shape deformation in response to specific stimuli have gained significant attention in the field of soft robotics and intelligent devices. Despite the substantial advancements in soft robotics, there is a growing demand for the design of multistimuli-responsive soft actuators using a single layer of material due to its reduced complexity and ease of manufacturing and durability. Here, we report the actuation characteristics of a single-layer, dual-responsive soft actuator that overcomes the commonly encountered delamination issues often associated with bilayer systems by incorporating PEDOT:PSS with cassava starch. This soft actuator exhibits deformations in response to various solvent vapors, such as water, alcohol, and acetone. Remarkably, it demonstrates opposite deformations upon exposure to water and alcohol vapors. Additionally, the actuator responds to light triggers and folds upon exposure to sunlight and infrared light. The degree of folding can be precisely controlled by adjusting the intensity of the light source. Furthermore, the periodic geometric patterns imposed on the surface of the actuator provide an additional handle to control the bending axis. For proof of concept, we leverage the actuation capabilities of our actuator to showcase a range of potential applications, including its usage in wearable textiles, crawler robots, smart curtains, push-and-pull machines, and smart lifts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vipin Kumar
- Soft Materials Laboratory, Department of Physics, IIT Madras, Chennai-600036, Tamil Nadu India
- Center for Soft and Biological Matter, IIT Madras, Chennai-600036, Tamil Nadu India
| | - Dillip K Satapathy
- Soft Materials Laboratory, Department of Physics, IIT Madras, Chennai-600036, Tamil Nadu India
- Center for Soft and Biological Matter, IIT Madras, Chennai-600036, Tamil Nadu India
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3
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Castaldi V, Bellino A, Baldantoni D. The ecology of bladderworts: The unique hunting-gathering-farming strategy in plants. FOOD WEBS 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fooweb.2023.e00273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/06/2023]
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Meder F, Baytekin B, Del Dottore E, Meroz Y, Tauber F, Walker I, Mazzolai B. A perspective on plant robotics: from bioinspiration to hybrid systems. BIOINSPIRATION & BIOMIMETICS 2022; 18:015006. [PMID: 36351300 DOI: 10.1088/1748-3190/aca198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2022] [Accepted: 11/09/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
As miscellaneous as the Plant Kingdom is, correspondingly diverse are the opportunities for taking inspiration from plants for innovations in science and engineering. Especially in robotics, properties like growth, adaptation to environments, ingenious materials, sustainability, and energy-effectiveness of plants provide an extremely rich source of inspiration to develop new technologies-and many of them are still in the beginning of being discovered. In the last decade, researchers have begun to reproduce complex plant functions leading to functionality that goes far beyond conventional robotics and this includes sustainability, resource saving, and eco-friendliness. This perspective drawn by specialists in different related disciplines provides a snapshot from the last decade of research in the field and draws conclusions on the current challenges, unanswered questions on plant functions, plant-inspired robots, bioinspired materials, and plant-hybrid systems looking ahead to the future of these research fields.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabian Meder
- Bioinspired Soft Robotics, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genoa, Italy
| | - Bilge Baytekin
- Department of Chemistry and UNAM National Nanotechnology Research Center, Bilkent University, Ankara, Turkey
| | | | - Yasmine Meroz
- School of Plant Sciences and Food Security, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Falk Tauber
- Plant Biomechanics Group (PBG) Freiburg, Botanic Garden of the University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence livMatS @ FIT-Freiburg Center for Interactive Materials and Bioinspired Technologies, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Ian Walker
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Clemson University, Clemson, SC, United States of America
| | - Barbara Mazzolai
- Bioinspired Soft Robotics, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genoa, Italy
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Ivesic C, Adlassnig W, Koller-Peroutka M, Kress L, Lang I. Snatching Sundews-Analysis of Tentacle Movement in Two Species of Drosera in Terms of Response Rate, Response Time, and Speed of Movement. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 11:3212. [PMID: 36501252 PMCID: PMC9740574 DOI: 10.3390/plants11233212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2022] [Revised: 11/15/2022] [Accepted: 11/21/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Drosera, Droseraceae, catch prey with sticky tentacles. Both Australian Drosera allantostigma and widespread D. rotundifolia show three types of anatomically different tentacles: short, peripheral, and snap-tentacles. The latter two are capable of fast movement. This motion was analysed after mechanical, chemical, and electrical stimulation with respect to response rate, response time, and angular velocity of bending. Compared to D. rotundifolia, D. allantostigma responds more frequently and faster; the tentacles bend with higher angular velocity. Snap-tentacles have a lower response rate, shorter response time, and faster angular velocity. The response rates for chemical and electrical stimuli are similar, and higher than the rates for mechanical stimulus. The response time is not dependent on stimulus type. The higher motility in D. allantostigma indicates increased dependence on mechanical prey capture, and a reduced role of adhesive mucilage. The same tentacle types are present in both species and show similar motility patterns. The lower response rate of snap-tentacles might be a safety measure against accidental triggering, since the motion of snap-tentacles is irreversible and tissue destructive. Furthermore, tentacles seem to discern stimuli and respond specifically. The established model of stereotypical tentacle movement may not fully explain these observations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Ivesic
- Functional and Evolutionary Ecology, Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Vienna, Djerassiplatz 1, 1030 Vienna, Austria
- Core Facility Cell Imaging and Ultrastructure Research, Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Vienna, Djerassiplatz 1, 1030 Vienna, Austria
| | - Wolfram Adlassnig
- Core Facility Cell Imaging and Ultrastructure Research, Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Vienna, Djerassiplatz 1, 1030 Vienna, Austria
| | - Marianne Koller-Peroutka
- Core Facility Cell Imaging and Ultrastructure Research, Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Vienna, Djerassiplatz 1, 1030 Vienna, Austria
| | - Linda Kress
- Core Facility Cell Imaging and Ultrastructure Research, Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Vienna, Djerassiplatz 1, 1030 Vienna, Austria
| | - Ingeborg Lang
- Functional and Evolutionary Ecology, Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Vienna, Djerassiplatz 1, 1030 Vienna, Austria
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Horstmann M, Buchheit H, Speck T, Poppinga S. The cracking of Scots pine ( Pinus sylvestris) cones. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2022; 13:982756. [PMID: 36330256 PMCID: PMC9623100 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2022.982756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Pine cones show functionally highly resilient, hygroscopically actuated opening and closing movements, which are repeatable and function even in millions of years old, coalified cones. Although the functional morphology and biomechanics behind the individual seed scale motions are well understood, the initial opening of the cone, which is often accompanied by an audible cracking noise, is not. We therefore investigated the initial opening events of mature fresh cones of Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris) and their subsequent motion patterns. Using high-speed and time lapse videography, 3D digital image correlation techniques, force measurements, thermographic and chemical-rheological resin analyses, we are able to draw a holistic picture of the initial opening process involving the rupture of resin seals and very fast seed scale motion in the millisecond regime. The rapid cone opening was not accompanied by immediate seed release in our experiments and, therefore, cannot be assigned to ballistochory. As the involved passive hydraulic-elastic processes in cracking are very fine-tuned, we hypothesize that they are under tight mechanical-structural control to ensure an ecologically optimized seed release upon environmental conditions suitable for wind dispersal. In this context, we propose an interplay of humidity and temperature to be the external "drivers" for the initial cone opening, in which resin works as a crucial chemical-mechanical latch system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Horstmann
- Botanic Garden, Plant Biomechanics Group, University of Freiburg, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
- Department of Animal Ecology, Evolution and Biodiversity, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Hannah Buchheit
- Freiburg Materials Research Center and Institute for Macromolecular Chemistry, University of Freiburg, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
| | - Thomas Speck
- Botanic Garden, Plant Biomechanics Group, University of Freiburg, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence livMatS, University of Freiburg, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
| | - Simon Poppinga
- Department of Biology, Botanical Garden, Technical University of Darmstadt, Darmstadt, Germany
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Memory and habituation to harmful and non-harmful stimuli in a field population of the sensitive plant, Mimosa pudica. JOURNAL OF TROPICAL ECOLOGY 2021. [DOI: 10.1017/s0266467421000559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
AbstractMimosa pudica is a Neotropical legume that closes its leaves rapidly in response to touch stimulation, hypothetically as herbivory defence. Habituation to non-harmful stimuli and long-term memory of past events have been demonstrated in this species, the former with relatively heavy objects and the latter under laboratory conditions. This species should not habituate to harmful stimuli if leaf movement is a response to herbivore damage. We tested in Monteverde, Costa Rica, whether (1) memory occurs in wild plants, (2) whether habituation occurs under harmful stimuli: simulated herbivory, and (3) whether wild plants can habituate to light non-harmful stimuli. The degree of closing of the leaflets and time until reopening was measured in response to repeated harmful and non-harmful stimuli. The results showed habituation to repeated non-harmful very light stimuli and showed lack of habituation to simulated leaf damage. Wild plants also showed faster rehabituation to repeated non-harmful stimuli when they had been exposed 15 days previously, suggesting possible long-term memory. These results indicate that wild plants are capable of (1) distinguishing between harmful and non-harmful stimuli (only habituating to the latter), (2) memorizing previous events, and 3) habituating very light tactile stimuli commonly experienced in the field.
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Miranda VFO, Silva SR, Reut MS, Dolsan H, Stolarczyk P, Rutishauser R, Płachno BJ. A Historical Perspective of Bladderworts ( Utricularia): Traps, Carnivory and Body Architecture. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2021; 10:plants10122656. [PMID: 34961127 PMCID: PMC8707321 DOI: 10.3390/plants10122656] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2021] [Revised: 11/28/2021] [Accepted: 11/29/2021] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
The genus Utricularia includes around 250 species of carnivorous plants, commonly known as bladderworts. The generic name Utricularia was coined by Carolus Linnaeus in reference to the carnivorous organs (Utriculus in Latin) present in all species of the genus. Since the formal proposition by Linnaeus, many species of Utricularia were described, but only scarce information about the biology for most species is known. All Utricularia species are herbs with vegetative organs that do not follow traditional models of morphological classification. Since the formal description of Utricularia in the 18th century, the trap function has intrigued naturalists. Historically, the traps were regarded as floating organs, a common hypothesis that was maintained by different botanists. However, Charles Darwin was most likely the first naturalist to refute this idea, since even with the removal of all traps, the plants continued to float. More recently, due mainly to methodological advances, detailed studies on the trap function and mechanisms could be investigated. This review shows a historical perspective on Utricularia studies which focuses on the traps and body organization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vitor F. O. Miranda
- Laboratory of Plant Systematics, Department of Applied Biology, School of Agricultural and Veterinarian Sciences, Campus Jaboticabal, UNESP—São Paulo State University, Jaboticabal CEP 14884-900, Brazil; (S.R.S.); (H.D.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Saura R. Silva
- Laboratory of Plant Systematics, Department of Applied Biology, School of Agricultural and Veterinarian Sciences, Campus Jaboticabal, UNESP—São Paulo State University, Jaboticabal CEP 14884-900, Brazil; (S.R.S.); (H.D.)
| | - Markus S. Reut
- Department of Plant Cytology and Embryology, Institute of Botany, Faculty of Biology, Jagiellonian University in Kraków, Gronostajowa 9 St., 30-387 Kraków, Poland; (M.S.R.); (B.J.P.)
| | - Hugo Dolsan
- Laboratory of Plant Systematics, Department of Applied Biology, School of Agricultural and Veterinarian Sciences, Campus Jaboticabal, UNESP—São Paulo State University, Jaboticabal CEP 14884-900, Brazil; (S.R.S.); (H.D.)
| | - Piotr Stolarczyk
- Department of Botany, Physiology and Plant Protection, Faculty of Biotechnology and Horticulture, University of Agriculture in Kraków, al. 29 Listopada 54, 31-425 Kraków, Poland;
| | - Rolf Rutishauser
- Department of Systematic and Evolutionary Botany, University of Zurich, CH-8008 Zurich, Switzerland;
| | - Bartosz J. Płachno
- Department of Plant Cytology and Embryology, Institute of Botany, Faculty of Biology, Jagiellonian University in Kraków, Gronostajowa 9 St., 30-387 Kraków, Poland; (M.S.R.); (B.J.P.)
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Poppinga S, Schenck P, Speck O, Speck T, Bruchmann B, Masselter T. Self-Actuated Paper and Wood Models: Low-Cost Handcrafted Biomimetic Compliant Systems for Research and Teaching. Biomimetics (Basel) 2021; 6:biomimetics6030042. [PMID: 34206585 PMCID: PMC8293091 DOI: 10.3390/biomimetics6030042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2021] [Revised: 06/08/2021] [Accepted: 06/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The abstraction and implementation of plant movement principles into biomimetic compliant systems are of increasing interest for technical applications, e.g., in architecture, medicine, and soft robotics. Within the respective research and development approaches, advanced methods such as 4D printing or 3D-braiding pultrusion are typically used to generate proof-of-concept demonstrators at the laboratory or demonstrator scale. However, such techniques are generally time-consuming, complicated, and cost-intensive, which often impede the rapid realization of a sufficient number of demonstrators for testing or teaching. Therefore, we have produced comparable simple handcrafted compliant systems based on paper, wood, plastic foil, and/or glue as construction materials. A variety of complex plant movement principles have been transferred into these low-cost physical demonstrators, which are self-actuated by shrinking processes induced by the anisotropic hygroscopic properties of wood or paper. The developed systems have a high potential for fast, precise, and low-cost abstraction and transfer processes in biomimetic approaches and for the "hands-on understanding" of plant movements in applied university and school courses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon Poppinga
- Plant Biomechanics Group @ Botanic Garden, University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany; (P.S.); (O.S.); (T.S.)
- Freiburg Materials Research Center (FMF), University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence livMatS @ FIT—Freiburg Center for Interactive Materials and Bioinspired Technologies, University of Freiburg, 79110 Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
- Correspondence: (S.P.); (T.M.)
| | - Pablo Schenck
- Plant Biomechanics Group @ Botanic Garden, University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany; (P.S.); (O.S.); (T.S.)
| | - Olga Speck
- Plant Biomechanics Group @ Botanic Garden, University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany; (P.S.); (O.S.); (T.S.)
- Cluster of Excellence livMatS @ FIT—Freiburg Center for Interactive Materials and Bioinspired Technologies, University of Freiburg, 79110 Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
| | - Thomas Speck
- Plant Biomechanics Group @ Botanic Garden, University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany; (P.S.); (O.S.); (T.S.)
- Freiburg Materials Research Center (FMF), University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence livMatS @ FIT—Freiburg Center for Interactive Materials and Bioinspired Technologies, University of Freiburg, 79110 Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
| | - Bernd Bruchmann
- BASF SE, Advanced Materials and Systems Research, 67056 Ludwigshafen/Rhein, Germany;
| | - Tom Masselter
- Plant Biomechanics Group @ Botanic Garden, University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany; (P.S.); (O.S.); (T.S.)
- Correspondence: (S.P.); (T.M.)
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Poppinga S, Correa D, Bruchmann B, Menges A, Speck T. Plant Movements as Concept Generators for the Development of Biomimetic Compliant Mechanisms. Integr Comp Biol 2020; 60:886-895. [PMID: 32396604 DOI: 10.1093/icb/icaa028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Plant movements are of increasing interest for biomimetic approaches where hinge-free compliant mechanisms (flexible structures) for applications, for example, in architecture, soft robotics, and medicine are developed. In this article, we first concisely summarize the knowledge on plant movement principles and show how the different modes of actuation, that is, the driving forces of motion, can be used in biomimetic approaches for the development of motile technical systems. We then emphasize on current developments and breakthroughs in the field, that is, the technical implementation of plant movement principles through additive manufacturing, the development of structures capable of tracking movements (tropisms), and the development of structures that can perform multiple movement steps. Regarding the additive manufacturing section, we present original results on the successful transfer of several plant movement principles into 3D printed hygroscopic shape-changing structures ("4D printing"). The resulting systems include edge growth-driven actuation (as known from the petals of the lily flower), bending scale-like structures with functional bilayer setups (inspired from pinecones), modular aperture architectures (as can be similarly seen in moss peristomes), snap-through elastic instability actuation (as known from Venus flytrap snap-traps), and origami-like curved-folding kinematic amplification (inspired by the carnivorous waterwheel plant). Our novel biomimetic compliant mechanisms highlight the feasibility of modern printing techniques for designing and developing versatile tailored motion responses for technical applications. We then focus on persisting challenges in the field, that is, how to speed-boost intrinsically slow hydraulically actuated structures and how to achieve functional resilience and robustness, before we propose the establishment of a motion design catalog in the conclusion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon Poppinga
- Plant Biomechanics Group, Botanic Garden, University of Freiburg, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany.,Freiburg Materials Research Center (FMF), University of Freiburg, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
| | - David Correa
- Institute for Computational Design and Construction (ICD), University of Stuttgart, Stuttgart, Germany.,School of Architecture, University of Waterloo, Cambridge, ON, Canada
| | - Bernd Bruchmann
- BASF SE Advanced Materials and Systems Research, Ludwigshafen, Germany
| | - Achim Menges
- School of Architecture, University of Waterloo, Cambridge, ON, Canada
| | - Thomas Speck
- Plant Biomechanics Group, Botanic Garden, University of Freiburg, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany.,Freiburg Materials Research Center (FMF), University of Freiburg, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany.,Cluster of Excellence livMatS @ Freiburg Center for Interactive Materials and Bioinspired Technologies (FIT), University of Freiburg, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
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11
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Correa D, Poppinga S, Mylo MD, Westermeier AS, Bruchmann B, Menges A, Speck T. 4D pine scale: biomimetic 4D printed autonomous scale and flap structures capable of multi-phase movement. PHILOSOPHICAL TRANSACTIONS. SERIES A, MATHEMATICAL, PHYSICAL, AND ENGINEERING SCIENCES 2020; 378:20190445. [PMID: 32008450 PMCID: PMC7015286 DOI: 10.1098/rsta.2019.0445] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/15/2019] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
We developed biomimetic hygro-responsive composite polymer scales inspired by the reversible shape-changes of Bhutan pine (Pinus wallichiana) cone seed scales. The synthetic kinematic response is made possible through novel four-dimensional (4D) printing techniques with anisotropic material use, namely copolymers with embedded cellulose fibrils and ABS polymer. Multi-phase motion like the subsequent transversal and longitudinal bending deformation during desiccation of a natural pinecone scale can be structurally programmed into such printed hygromorphs. Both the natural concept generator (Bhutan pinecone scale) and the biomimetic technical structure (4D printed scale) were comparatively investigated as to their displacement and strain over time via three-dimensional digital image correlation methods. Our bioinspired prototypes can be the basis for tailored autonomous and self-sufficient flap and scale structures performing complex consecutive motions for technical applications, e.g. in architecture and soft robotics. This article is part of the theme issue 'Bioinspired materials and surfaces for green science and technology (part 3)'.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Correa
- Institute for Computational Design and Construction (ICD), University of Stuttgart, Stuttgart, Germany
- School of Architecture, University of Waterloo, Cambridge, Ontario, Canada
- e-mail:
| | - Simon Poppinga
- Plant Biomechanics Group, Botanic Garden, University of Freiburg, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
- Freiburg Materials Research Center (FMF), University of Freiburg, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
- e-mail:
| | - Max D. Mylo
- Plant Biomechanics Group, Botanic Garden, University of Freiburg, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence livMatS, University of Freiburg, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
| | - Anna S. Westermeier
- Plant Biomechanics Group, Botanic Garden, University of Freiburg, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
| | - Bernd Bruchmann
- BASF SE Advanced Materials and Systems Research, Ludwigshafen, Germany
| | - Achim Menges
- Institute for Computational Design and Construction (ICD), University of Stuttgart, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Thomas Speck
- Plant Biomechanics Group, Botanic Garden, University of Freiburg, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
- Freiburg Materials Research Center (FMF), University of Freiburg, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence livMatS, University of Freiburg, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
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12
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He K, Liu Y, Wang M, Chen G, Jiang Y, Yu J, Wan C, Qi D, Xiao M, Leow WR, Yang H, Antonietti M, Chen X. An Artificial Somatic Reflex Arc. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2020; 32:e1905399. [PMID: 31803996 DOI: 10.1002/adma.201905399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2019] [Revised: 11/20/2019] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
The emulation of human sensation, perception, and action processes has become a major challenge for bioinspired intelligent robotics, interactive human-machine interfacing, and advanced prosthetics. Reflex actions, enabled through reflex arcs, are important for human and higher animals to respond to stimuli from environment without the brain processing and survive the risks of nature. An artificial reflex arc system that emulates the functions of the reflex arc simplifies the complex circuit design needed for "central-control-only" processes and becomes a basic electronic component in an intelligent soft robotics system. An artificial somatic reflex arc that enables the actuation of electrochemical actuators in response to the stimulation of tactile pressures is reported. Only if the detected pressure by the pressure sensor is above the stimulus threshold, the metal-organic-framework-based threshold controlling unit (TCU) can be activated and triggers the electrochemical actuators to complete the motion. Such responding mechanism mimics the all-or-none law in the human nervous system. As a proof of concept, the artificial somatic reflex arc is successfully integrated into a robot to mimic the infant grasp reflex. This work provides a unique and simplifying strategy for developing intelligent soft robotics, next-generation human-machine interfaces, and neuroprosthetics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ke He
- Innovative Centre for Flexible Devices (iFLEX), Max Planck-NTU Joint Lab for Artificial Senses, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 50 Nanyang Avenue, Singapore, 639798, Singapore
| | - Yaqing Liu
- Innovative Centre for Flexible Devices (iFLEX), Max Planck-NTU Joint Lab for Artificial Senses, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 50 Nanyang Avenue, Singapore, 639798, Singapore
| | - Ming Wang
- Innovative Centre for Flexible Devices (iFLEX), Max Planck-NTU Joint Lab for Artificial Senses, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 50 Nanyang Avenue, Singapore, 639798, Singapore
| | - Geng Chen
- Innovative Centre for Flexible Devices (iFLEX), Max Planck-NTU Joint Lab for Artificial Senses, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 50 Nanyang Avenue, Singapore, 639798, Singapore
| | - Ying Jiang
- Innovative Centre for Flexible Devices (iFLEX), Max Planck-NTU Joint Lab for Artificial Senses, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 50 Nanyang Avenue, Singapore, 639798, Singapore
| | - Jiancan Yu
- Innovative Centre for Flexible Devices (iFLEX), Max Planck-NTU Joint Lab for Artificial Senses, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 50 Nanyang Avenue, Singapore, 639798, Singapore
| | - Changjin Wan
- Innovative Centre for Flexible Devices (iFLEX), Max Planck-NTU Joint Lab for Artificial Senses, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 50 Nanyang Avenue, Singapore, 639798, Singapore
| | - Dianpeng Qi
- Innovative Centre for Flexible Devices (iFLEX), Max Planck-NTU Joint Lab for Artificial Senses, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 50 Nanyang Avenue, Singapore, 639798, Singapore
| | - Meng Xiao
- Innovative Centre for Flexible Devices (iFLEX), Max Planck-NTU Joint Lab for Artificial Senses, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 50 Nanyang Avenue, Singapore, 639798, Singapore
| | - Wan Ru Leow
- Innovative Centre for Flexible Devices (iFLEX), Max Planck-NTU Joint Lab for Artificial Senses, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 50 Nanyang Avenue, Singapore, 639798, Singapore
| | - Hui Yang
- Innovative Centre for Flexible Devices (iFLEX), Max Planck-NTU Joint Lab for Artificial Senses, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 50 Nanyang Avenue, Singapore, 639798, Singapore
| | - Markus Antonietti
- Department of Colloid Chemistry, Max Planck Institute of Colloids and Interfaces, Am Mühlenberg 1, 14476, Potsdam, Germany
| | - Xiaodong Chen
- Innovative Centre for Flexible Devices (iFLEX), Max Planck-NTU Joint Lab for Artificial Senses, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 50 Nanyang Avenue, Singapore, 639798, Singapore
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Morris RJ, Blyth M. How water flow, geometry, and material properties drive plant movements. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL BOTANY 2019; 70:3549-3560. [PMID: 31112593 DOI: 10.1093/jxb/erz167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2018] [Accepted: 04/08/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Plants are dynamic. They adjust their shape for feeding, defence, and reproduction. Such plant movements are critical for their survival. We present selected examples covering a range of movements from single cell to tissue level and over a range of time scales. We focus on reversible turgor-driven shape changes. Recent insights into the mechanisms of stomata, bladderwort, the waterwheel, and the Venus flytrap are presented. The underlying physical principles (turgor, osmosis, membrane permeability, wall stress, snap buckling, and elastic instability) are highlighted, and advances in our understanding of these processes are summarized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard J Morris
- Computational and Systems Biology, John Innes Centre, Norwich, UK
| | - Mark Blyth
- School of Mathematics, University of East Anglia, Norwich, UK
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14
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Driouich A, Smith C, Ropitaux M, Chambard M, Boulogne I, Bernard S, Follet-Gueye ML, Vicré M, Moore J. Root extracellular traps versus neutrophil extracellular traps in host defence, a case of functional convergence? Biol Rev Camb Philos Soc 2019; 94:1685-1700. [PMID: 31134732 DOI: 10.1111/brv.12522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2018] [Revised: 04/24/2019] [Accepted: 04/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The root cap releases cells that produce massive amounts of mucilage containing polysaccharides, proteoglycans, extracellular DNA (exDNA) and a variety of antimicrobial compounds. The released cells - known as border cells or border-like cells - and mucilage secretions form networks that are defined as root extracellular traps (RETs). RETs are important players in root immunity. In animals, phagocytes are some of the most abundant white blood cells in circulation and are very important for immunity. These cells combat pathogens through multiple defence mechanisms, including the release of exDNA-containing extracellular traps (ETs). Traps of neutrophil origin are abbreviated herein as NETs. Similar to phagocytes, plant root cap-originating cells actively contribute to frontline defence against pathogens. RETs and NETs are thus components of the plant and animal immune systems, respectively, that exhibit similar compositional and functional properties. Herein, we describe and discuss the formation, molecular composition and functional similarities of these similar but different extracellular traps.
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Affiliation(s)
- Azeddine Driouich
- Laboratoire de Glycobiologie et Matrice Extracellulaire Végétale, EA4358, Normandie Université, Université de Rouen, 1 Rue Thomas Becket, 76000, Rouen, France.,Structure Fédérative de Recherche « Normandie-Végétal » - FED4277, 76000, Rouen, France
| | - Carine Smith
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Science Faculty, Stellenbosch University, Matieland, 7602, South Africa
| | - Marc Ropitaux
- Laboratoire de Glycobiologie et Matrice Extracellulaire Végétale, EA4358, Normandie Université, Université de Rouen, 1 Rue Thomas Becket, 76000, Rouen, France.,Structure Fédérative de Recherche « Normandie-Végétal » - FED4277, 76000, Rouen, France
| | - Marie Chambard
- Laboratoire de Glycobiologie et Matrice Extracellulaire Végétale, EA4358, Normandie Université, Université de Rouen, 1 Rue Thomas Becket, 76000, Rouen, France.,Structure Fédérative de Recherche « Normandie-Végétal » - FED4277, 76000, Rouen, France
| | - Isabelle Boulogne
- Laboratoire de Glycobiologie et Matrice Extracellulaire Végétale, EA4358, Normandie Université, Université de Rouen, 1 Rue Thomas Becket, 76000, Rouen, France.,Structure Fédérative de Recherche « Normandie-Végétal » - FED4277, 76000, Rouen, France
| | - Sophie Bernard
- Laboratoire de Glycobiologie et Matrice Extracellulaire Végétale, EA4358, Normandie Université, Université de Rouen, 1 Rue Thomas Becket, 76000, Rouen, France.,Structure Fédérative de Recherche « Normandie-Végétal » - FED4277, 76000, Rouen, France
| | - Marie-Laure Follet-Gueye
- Laboratoire de Glycobiologie et Matrice Extracellulaire Végétale, EA4358, Normandie Université, Université de Rouen, 1 Rue Thomas Becket, 76000, Rouen, France.,Structure Fédérative de Recherche « Normandie-Végétal » - FED4277, 76000, Rouen, France
| | - Maïté Vicré
- Laboratoire de Glycobiologie et Matrice Extracellulaire Végétale, EA4358, Normandie Université, Université de Rouen, 1 Rue Thomas Becket, 76000, Rouen, France.,Structure Fédérative de Recherche « Normandie-Végétal » - FED4277, 76000, Rouen, France
| | - John Moore
- Institute for Wine Biotechnology, Department of Viticulture and Oenology, Faculty of AgriSciences, Stellenbosch University, Matieland, 7602, South Africa
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15
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Westermeier AS, Sachse R, Poppinga S, Vögele P, Adamec L, Speck T, Bischoff M. How the carnivorous waterwheel plant ( Aldrovanda vesiculosa) snaps. Proc Biol Sci 2019; 285:rspb.2018.0012. [PMID: 29743251 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2018.0012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2018] [Accepted: 04/13/2018] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The fast motion of the snap-traps of the terrestrial Venus flytrap (Dionaea muscipula) have been intensively studied, in contrast to the tenfold faster underwater snap-traps of its phylogenetic sister, the waterwheel plant (Aldrovanda vesiculosa). Based on biomechanical and functional-morphological analyses and on a reverse biomimetic approach via mechanical modelling and computer simulations, we identify a combination of hydraulic turgor change and the release of prestress stored in the trap as essential for actuation. Our study is the first to identify and analyse in detail the motion principle of Aldrovanda, which not only leads to a deepened understanding of fast plant movements in general, but also contributes to the question of how snap-traps may have evolved and also allows for the development of novel biomimetic compliant mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna S Westermeier
- Plant Biomechanics Group and Botanic Garden (PBG), University of Freiburg, Schänzlestraße 1, 79104 Freiburg, Germany .,Freiburg Center for Interactive Materials and Bioinspired Technologies (FIT), Georges-Koehler-Allee 105, 79110 Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
| | - Renate Sachse
- Institute for Structural Mechanics (IBB), University of Stuttgart, Pfaffenwaldring 7, 70550 Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Simon Poppinga
- Plant Biomechanics Group and Botanic Garden (PBG), University of Freiburg, Schänzlestraße 1, 79104 Freiburg, Germany.,Freiburg Materials Research Center (FMF), University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Philipp Vögele
- Plant Biomechanics Group and Botanic Garden (PBG), University of Freiburg, Schänzlestraße 1, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Lubomir Adamec
- Institute of Botany of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Dukelská 135, 379 82 Třeboň, Czech Republic
| | - Thomas Speck
- Plant Biomechanics Group and Botanic Garden (PBG), University of Freiburg, Schänzlestraße 1, 79104 Freiburg, Germany.,Freiburg Center for Interactive Materials and Bioinspired Technologies (FIT), Georges-Koehler-Allee 105, 79110 Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany.,Freiburg Materials Research Center (FMF), University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Manfred Bischoff
- Institute for Structural Mechanics (IBB), University of Stuttgart, Pfaffenwaldring 7, 70550 Stuttgart, Germany
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16
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Płachno BJ, Świątek P, Miranda VFO, Stolarczyk P. The Structure and Occurrence of a Velum in Utricularia Traps ( Lentibulariaceae). FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2019; 10:302. [PMID: 31001290 PMCID: PMC6454230 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2019.00302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2018] [Accepted: 02/25/2019] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
Bladderworts (Utricularia, Lentibulariaceae, Lamiales) are carnivorous plants that form small suction traps (bladders) for catching invertebrates. The velum is a cuticle structure that is produced by specialized trichomes of the threshold pavement epithelium. It is believed that the velum together with the mucilage seals the free edge of the trap door and that it is necessary for correct functioning of the trap. However, recently, some authors have questioned the occurrence of a velum in the traps of the Utricularia from the various sections. The main aim of this study was to confirm whether velum occurs in the traps of the Utricularia species from the subgenera Polypompholyx, Bivalvaria, and Utricularia. The 15 species were examined from subg. Polypompholyx, subg. Bivalvaria, and subg. Utricularia. A velum was found in all examined Utricularia species. In the traps of the members of section Pleiochasia, there was an outer velum (forming a complete ring) and an inner velum. In the traps of Utricularia uniflora (Lasiocaules), there was only an inner velum. In these species, the formation of the velum was accompanied by intensive mucilage production, and as a result, when door was closed (set position), the mucilage and the velum touched the surface of the door. In members of both sections of Pleiochasia and Lasiocaules, the pavement epithelium had a more complicated structure (four to five zones) than in the members of the subgenera Bivalvaria and Utricularia in which three distinct zones occurred (an outer with a velum, a middle and an internal with the mucilage trichomes). Even in U. purpurea, where the threshold was a reduced pavement epithelium, it consisted of three functional zones and the presence of a velum. Two main types of velum have been proposed. A velum was present in Utricularia traps regardless of the trap type or the habitat (aquatic, epiphytic, and terrestrial species). We proposed broad definition of velum as cuticle membranes covered by mucilage; from a functional point of view, this definition is more useful and more reflects complexity of this structure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bartosz J. Płachno
- Department of Plant Cytology and Embryology, Institute of Botany, Jagiellonian University in Kraków, Cracow, Poland
| | - Piotr Świątek
- Department of Animal Histology and Embryology, University of Silesia in Katowice, Katowice, Poland
| | - Vitor F. O. Miranda
- Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias, Jaboticabal, Departamento de Biologia Aplicada à Agropecuária, UNESP–Universidade Estadual Paulista, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Piotr Stolarczyk
- Unit of Botany and Plant Physiology, Institute of Plant Biology and Biotechnology, University of Agriculture in Kraków, Cracow, Poland
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17
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Davis AL, Babb MH, Lowe MC, Yeh AT, Lee BT, Martin CH. Testing Darwin's Hypothesis about the Wonderful Venus Flytrap: Marginal Spikes Form a "Horrid Prison" for Moderate-Sized Insect Prey. Am Nat 2018; 193:309-317. [PMID: 30720364 DOI: 10.1086/701433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Botanical carnivory is a novel feeding strategy associated with numerous physiological and morphological adaptations. However, the benefits of these novel carnivorous traits are rarely tested. We used field observations, lab experiments, and a seminatural experiment to test prey capture function of the marginal spikes on snap traps of the Venus flytrap (Dionaea muscipula). Our field and laboratory results suggested inefficient capture success: fewer than one in four prey encounters led to prey capture. Removing the marginal spikes decreased the rate of prey capture success for moderate-sized cricket prey by 90%, but this effect disappeared for larger prey. The nonlinear benefit of spikes suggests that they provide a better cage for capturing more abundant insects of moderate and small sizes, but they may also provide a foothold for rare large prey to escape. Our observations support Darwin's hypothesis that the marginal spikes form a "horrid prison" that increases prey capture success for moderate-sized prey, but the decreasing benefit for larger prey is unexpected and previously undocumented. Thus, we find surprising complexity in the adaptive landscape for one of the most wonderful evolutionary innovations among all plants. These findings enrich understanding of the evolution and diversification of novel trap morphology in carnivorous plants.
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18
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Poppinga S, Zollfrank C, Prucker O, Rühe J, Menges A, Cheng T, Speck T. Toward a New Generation of Smart Biomimetic Actuators for Architecture. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2018; 30:e1703653. [PMID: 29064124 DOI: 10.1002/adma.201703653] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2017] [Revised: 07/28/2017] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
Motile plant structures (e.g., leaves, petals, cone scales, and capsules) are functionally highly robust and resilient concept generators for the development of biomimetic actuators for architecture. Here, a concise review of the state-of-the-art of plant movement principles and derived biomimetic devices is provided. Achieving complex and higher-dimensional shape changes and passive-hydraulic actuation at a considerable time scale, as well as mechanical robustness of the motile technical structures, is challenging. For example, almost all currently available bioinspired hydraulic actuators show similar limitations due to the poroelastic time scale. Therefore, a major challenge is increasing the system size to the meter range, with actuation times of minutes or below. This means that response speed and flow rate need significant improvement for the systems, and the long-term performance degradation issue of hygroscopic materials needs to be addressed. A theoretical concept for "escaping" the poroelastic regime is proposed, and the possibilities for enhancing the mechanical properties of passive-hydraulic bilayer actuators are discussed. Furthermore, the promising aspects for further studies to implement tropistic movement behavior are presented, i.e., movement that depends on the direction of the triggering stimulus, which can finally lead to "smart building skins" that autonomously and self-sufficiently react to changing environmental stimuli in a direction-dependent manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon Poppinga
- Plant Biomechanics Group, Botanic Garden, University of Freiburg, Faculty of Biology, D-79104, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
- Freiburg Materials Research Center (FMF), University of Freiburg, D-79104, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
| | - Cordt Zollfrank
- Chair of Biogenic Polymers, Straubing Center of Science for Renewable Resources, Technical University Munich, D-94315, Straubing, Germany
| | - Oswald Prucker
- Freiburg Centre for Interactive Materials and Bioinspired Technologies (FIT), University of Freiburg, D-79110, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
- Department of Microsystems Engineering, University of Freiburg, D-79110, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
| | - Jürgen Rühe
- Freiburg Centre for Interactive Materials and Bioinspired Technologies (FIT), University of Freiburg, D-79110, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
- Department of Microsystems Engineering, University of Freiburg, D-79110, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
| | - Achim Menges
- Institute for Computational Design and Construction (ICD), University of Stuttgart, D-70174, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Tiffany Cheng
- Institute for Computational Design and Construction (ICD), University of Stuttgart, D-70174, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Thomas Speck
- Plant Biomechanics Group, Botanic Garden, University of Freiburg, Faculty of Biology, D-79104, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
- Freiburg Materials Research Center (FMF), University of Freiburg, D-79104, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
- Freiburg Centre for Interactive Materials and Bioinspired Technologies (FIT), University of Freiburg, D-79110, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
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19
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Hedrich R, Neher E. Venus Flytrap: How an Excitable, Carnivorous Plant Works. TRENDS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2018; 23:220-234. [PMID: 29336976 DOI: 10.1016/j.tplants.2017.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2017] [Revised: 12/13/2017] [Accepted: 12/14/2017] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
The carnivorous plant Dionaea possesses very sensitive mechanoreceptors. Upon contact with prey an action potential is triggered which, via an electrical network - comparable to the nervous system of vertebrates - rapidly closes its bivalved trap. The 'hunting cycle' comprises a constitutively activated mechanism for the rapid capture of prey, followed by a well-orchestrated sequence of activation of genes responsible for tight trap closure, digestion of the prey, and uptake of nutrients. Decisions on the step-by-step activation are based on 'counting' the number of stimulations of sensory organs. These remarkable animal-like skills in the carnivore are achieved not by taking over genes from its prey but by modifying and rearranging the functions of genes that are ubiquitous in plants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rainer Hedrich
- Institute for Molecular Plant Physiology and Biophysics, Julius-von-Sachs Platz 2, 97082 Würzburg, Germany.
| | - Erwin Neher
- Department for Membrane Biophysics, Max Planck Institute for Biophysical Chemistry, 37077 Göttingen, Germany
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20
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Li M, Li H, Li X, Zhu H, Xu Z, Liu L, Ma J, Zhang M. A Bioinspired Alginate-Gum Arabic Hydrogel with Micro-/Nanoscale Structures for Controlled Drug Release in Chronic Wound Healing. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2017; 9:22160-22175. [PMID: 28640580 PMCID: PMC5979260 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.7b04428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
Biopolymeric hydrogels have drawn increasing research interest in biomaterials due to their tunable physical and chemical properties for both creating bioactive cellular microenvironment and serving as sustainable therapeutic reagents. Inspired by a naturally occurring hydrogel secreted from the carnivorous Sundew plant for trapping insects, here we have developed a bioinspired hydrogel to deliver mitsugumin 53 (MG53), an important protein in cell membrane repair, for chronic wound healing. Both chemical compositions and micro-/nanomorphological properties inherent from the natural Sundew hydrogel were mimicked using sodium alginate and gum arabic with calcium ion-mediated cross-linking. On the basis of atomic force microscopy (AFM) force measurements, an optimal sticky hydrogel scaffold was obtained through orthogonal experimental design. Imaging and mechanical analysis showed the distinct correlation between structural morphology, adhesion characteristics, and mechanical properties of the Sundew-inspired hydrogel. Combined characterization and biochemistry techniques were utilized to uncover the underlying molecular composition involved in the interactions between hydrogel and protein. In vitro drug release experiments confirmed that the Sundew-inspired hydrogel had a biphasic-kinetics release, which can facilitate both fast delivery of MG53 for improving the reepithelization process of the wounds and sustained release of the protein for treating chronic wounds. In vivo experiments showed that the Sundew-inspired hydrogel encapsulating with rhMG53 could facilitate dermal wound healing in mouse model. Together, these studies confirmed that the Sundew-inspired hydrogel has both tunable micro-/nanostructures and physicochemical properties, which enable it as a delivery vehicle for chronic wounding healing. The research may provide a new way to develop biocompatible and tunable biomaterials for sustainable drug release to meet the needs of biological activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mi Li
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, Columbus, Ohio 43210, United States
- State Key Laboratory of Robotics, Shenyang Institute of Automation, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Haichang Li
- Dorothy M. Davis Heart & Lung Research Institute, Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, Ohio 43210, United States
- Department of Surgery, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio 43210, United States
| | - Xiangguang Li
- Dorothy M. Davis Heart & Lung Research Institute, Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, Ohio 43210, United States
- Department of Surgery, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio 43210, United States
- College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Hua Zhu
- Dorothy M. Davis Heart & Lung Research Institute, Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, Ohio 43210, United States
- Department of Surgery, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio 43210, United States
| | - Zihui Xu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, Columbus, Ohio 43210, United States
| | - Lianqing Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Robotics, Shenyang Institute of Automation, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Jianjie Ma
- Dorothy M. Davis Heart & Lung Research Institute, Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, Ohio 43210, United States
- Department of Surgery, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio 43210, United States
| | - Mingjun Zhang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, Columbus, Ohio 43210, United States
- Dorothy M. Davis Heart & Lung Research Institute, Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, Ohio 43210, United States
- Interdisciplinary Biophysics Graduate Program, Columbus, Ohio 43210, United States
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Poppinga S, Daber LE, Westermeier AS, Kruppert S, Horstmann M, Tollrian R, Speck T. Biomechanical analysis of prey capture in the carnivorous Southern bladderwort (Utricularia australis). Sci Rep 2017; 7:1776. [PMID: 28496168 PMCID: PMC5431978 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-01954-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2017] [Accepted: 04/04/2017] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
We recorded capture events (CEs) of the daphniid Ceriodaphnia dubia by the carnivorous Southern bladderwort with suction traps (Utricularia australis). Independent to orientation and behavior during trap triggering, the animals were successfully captured within 9 ms on average and sucked in with velocities of up to 4 m/s and accelerations of up to 2800 g. Phases of very high acceleration during onsets of suction were immediately followed by phases of similarly high deceleration (max.: -1900 g) inside the bladders, leading to immobilization of the prey which then dies. We found that traps perform a 'forward strike' during suction and that almost completely air-filled traps are still able to perform suction. The trigger hairs on the trapdoors can undergo strong bending deformation, which we interpret to be a safety feature to prevent fracture. Our results highlight the elaborate nature of the Utricularia suction traps which are functionally resilient and leave prey animals virtually no chance to escape.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon Poppinga
- Plant Biomechanics Group, Botanic Garden, University of Freiburg, Schänzlestraße 1, D-79104, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany.
| | - Lars Erik Daber
- Plant Biomechanics Group, Botanic Garden, University of Freiburg, Schänzlestraße 1, D-79104, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
| | - Anna Sofia Westermeier
- Plant Biomechanics Group, Botanic Garden, University of Freiburg, Schänzlestraße 1, D-79104, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
- Freiburg Centre for Interactive Materials and Bioinspired Technologies (FIT), Georges-Koehler-Allee 105, D-79110, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
| | - Sebastian Kruppert
- Department of Animal Ecology, Evolution and Biodiversity, Ruhr-University Bochum, Universitätsstraße 150, D-44780, Bochum, Germany
| | - Martin Horstmann
- Department of Animal Ecology, Evolution and Biodiversity, Ruhr-University Bochum, Universitätsstraße 150, D-44780, Bochum, Germany
| | - Ralph Tollrian
- Department of Animal Ecology, Evolution and Biodiversity, Ruhr-University Bochum, Universitätsstraße 150, D-44780, Bochum, Germany
| | - Thomas Speck
- Plant Biomechanics Group, Botanic Garden, University of Freiburg, Schänzlestraße 1, D-79104, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
- Freiburg Centre for Interactive Materials and Bioinspired Technologies (FIT), Georges-Koehler-Allee 105, D-79110, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
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22
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Li S, Wang KW. Plant-inspired adaptive structures and materials for morphing and actuation: a review. BIOINSPIRATION & BIOMIMETICS 2016; 12:011001. [PMID: 27995902 DOI: 10.1088/1748-3190/12/1/011001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
Plants exhibit a variety of reversible motions, from the slow opening of pine cones to the impulsive closing of Venus flytrap leaves. These motions are achieved without muscles and they have inspired a wide spectrum of engineered materials and structures. This review summarizes the recent developments of plant-inspired adaptive structures and materials for morphing and actuation. We begin with a brief overview of the actuation strategies and physiological features associated to these plant movements, showing that different combinations of these strategies and features can lead to motions with different deformation characteristics and response speeds. Then we offer a comprehensive survey of the plant-inspired morphing and actuation systems, including pressurized cellular structures, osmotic actuation, anisotropic hygroscopic materials, and bistable systems for rapid movements. Although these engineered systems are vastly different in terms of their size scales and intended applications, their working principles are all related to the actuation strategies and physiological features in plants. This review is to promote future cross-disciplinary studies between plant biology and engineering, which can foster new solutions for many applications such as morphing airframes, soft robotics and kinetic architectures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suyi Li
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Clemson University, Clemson, SC, 29634, USA
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Athas JC, Nguyen CP, Zarket BC, Gargava A, Nie Z, Raghavan SR. Enzyme-Triggered Folding of Hydrogels: Toward a Mimic of the Venus Flytrap. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2016; 8:19066-19074. [PMID: 27404225 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.6b05024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
External triggers such as pH or temperature can induce hydrogels to swell or shrink rapidly. Recently, these triggers have also been used to alter the three-dimensional (3-D) shapes of gels: for example, a flat gel sheet can be induced to fold into a tube. Self-folding gels are reminiscent of natural structures such as the Venus flytrap, which folds its leaves to entrap its prey. They are also of interest for applications in sensing or microrobotics. However, to advance the utility of self-folding gels, the range of triggers needs to be expanded beyond the conventional ones. Toward this end, we have designed a class of gels that change shape in response to very low concentrations of specific biomolecules. The gels are hybrids of three different constituents: (A) polyethylene glycol diacrylate (PEGDA); (B) gelatin methacrylate-co-polyethylene glycol dimethacrylate (GelMA-co-PEGDMA); and (C) N-isopropylacrylamide (NIPA). The thin-film hybrid is constructed as a bilayer or sandwich of two layers, with an A/B layer (alternating strips of A and B) sandwiched above a layer of gel C. Initially, when this hybrid gel is placed in water, the C layer is much more swollen than the A/B layer. Despite the swelling mismatch, the sheet remains flat because the A/B layer is very stiff. When collagenase enzyme is added to the water, it cleaves the gelatin chains in B, thus reducing the stiffness of the A/B layer. As a result, the swollen C layer is able to fold over the A/B layer, causing the sheet to transform into a specific shape. The typical transition is from flat sheet to closed hollow tube, and the time scale for this transition decreases with increasing enzyme concentration. Shape transitions are induced by enzyme levels as low as 0.75 U/mL. Interestingly, a shape transition is also induced by adding the lysate of murine fibroblast cells, which contains enzymes from the matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) family at levels around 0.1 U/mL (MMPs are similar to collagenase in their ability to cleave gelatin). We further show that transitions from flat sheets to other shapes such as helices and pancakes can be engineered by altering the design pattern of the gel. Additionally, we have made a rudimentary analog of the Venus flytrap, with two flat gels ("leaves") flanking a central folding gel ("hinge"). When enzyme is added, the hinge bends and brings the leaves together, trapping objects in the middle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jasmin C Athas
- Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, University of Maryland , College Park, Maryland 20742, United States
| | - Catherine P Nguyen
- Department of Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering, University of Maryland , College Park, Maryland 20742, United States
| | - Brady C Zarket
- Department of Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering, University of Maryland , College Park, Maryland 20742, United States
| | - Ankit Gargava
- Department of Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering, University of Maryland , College Park, Maryland 20742, United States
| | - Zhihong Nie
- Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, University of Maryland , College Park, Maryland 20742, United States
| | - Srinivasa R Raghavan
- Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, University of Maryland , College Park, Maryland 20742, United States
- Department of Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering, University of Maryland , College Park, Maryland 20742, United States
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Poppinga S, Kampowski T, Metzger A, Speck O, Speck T. Comparative kinematical analyses of Venus flytrap (Dionaea muscipula) snap traps. BEILSTEIN JOURNAL OF NANOTECHNOLOGY 2016; 7:664-74. [PMID: 27335756 PMCID: PMC4902084 DOI: 10.3762/bjnano.7.59] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2015] [Accepted: 04/11/2016] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
Although the Venus flytrap (Dionaea muscipula) can be considered as one of the most extensively investigated carnivorous plants, knowledge is still scarce about diversity of the snap-trap motion, the functionality of snap traps under varying environmental conditions, and their opening motion. By conducting simple snap-trap closure experiments in air and under water, we present striking evidence that adult Dionaea snaps similarly fast in aerial and submersed states and, hence, is potentially able to gain nutrients from fast aquatic prey during seasonal inundation. We reveal three snapping modes of adult traps, all incorporating snap buckling, and show that millimeter-sized, much slower seedling traps do not yet incorporate such elastic instabilities. Moreover, opening kinematics of young and adult Dionaea snap traps reveal that reverse snap buckling is not performed, corroborating the assumption that growth takes place on certain trap lobe regions. Our findings are discussed in an evolutionary, biomechanical, functional-morphological and biomimetic context.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon Poppinga
- Plant Biomechanics Group, Botanic Garden, University of Freiburg, Schänzlestraße 1, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
- Freiburg Materials Research Center (FMF), University of Freiburg, Stefan-Meier-Straße 21, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Tim Kampowski
- Plant Biomechanics Group, Botanic Garden, University of Freiburg, Schänzlestraße 1, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
- Freiburg Materials Research Center (FMF), University of Freiburg, Stefan-Meier-Straße 21, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Amélie Metzger
- Plant Biomechanics Group, Botanic Garden, University of Freiburg, Schänzlestraße 1, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Olga Speck
- Plant Biomechanics Group, Botanic Garden, University of Freiburg, Schänzlestraße 1, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
- Freiburg Centre for Interactive Materials and Bio-Inspired Technologies (FIT), Georges-Köhler-Allee 105, 79110 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Thomas Speck
- Plant Biomechanics Group, Botanic Garden, University of Freiburg, Schänzlestraße 1, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
- Freiburg Materials Research Center (FMF), University of Freiburg, Stefan-Meier-Straße 21, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
- Freiburg Centre for Interactive Materials and Bio-Inspired Technologies (FIT), Georges-Köhler-Allee 105, 79110 Freiburg, Germany
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Poppinga S, Weisskopf C, Westermeier AS, Masselter T, Speck T. Fastest predators in the plant kingdom: functional morphology and biomechanics of suction traps found in the largest genus of carnivorous plants. AOB PLANTS 2015; 8:plv140. [PMID: 26602984 PMCID: PMC4717191 DOI: 10.1093/aobpla/plv140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2015] [Accepted: 11/07/2015] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
Understanding the physics of plant movements, which describe the interplay between plant architecture, movement speed and actuation principles, is essential for the comprehension of important processes like plant morphogenesis. Recent investigations especially on rapid plant movements at the interface of biology, physics and engineering sciences highlight how such fast motions can be achieved without the presence of muscles, nerves and technical hinge analogies. The suction traps (bladders) of carnivorous bladderworts (Utricularia spp., Lentibulariaceae, Lamiales) are considered as some of the most elaborate moving structures in the plant kingdom. A complex interplay of morphological and physiological adaptations allows the traps to pump water out of their body and to store elastic energy in the deformed bladder walls. Mechanical stimulation by prey entails opening of the otherwise watertight trapdoor, followed by trap wall relaxation, sucking in of water and prey, and consecutive trapdoor closure. Suction can also occur spontaneously in non-stimulated traps. We review the current state of knowledge about the suction trap mechanism with a focus on architectonically homogeneous traps of aquatic bladderwort species from section Utricularia (the so-called 'Utricularia vulgaris trap type'). The functional morphology and biomechanics of the traps are described in detail. We discuss open questions and propose promising aspects for future studies on these sophisticated ultra-fast trapping devices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon Poppinga
- Plant Biomechanics Group, University of Freiburg, Botanic Garden, Schänzlestrasse 1, 79104 Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany Freiburg Materials Research Center (FMF), University of Freiburg, Stefan-Meier-Straße 21, 79104 Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
| | - Carmen Weisskopf
- Plant Biomechanics Group, University of Freiburg, Botanic Garden, Schänzlestrasse 1, 79104 Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany Present address: Department of Biomaterials, Max Planck Institute of Colloids and Interfaces, Wissenschaftspark Potsdam-Golm, Am Mühlenberg 1, 14476 Potsdam, Germany
| | - Anna Sophia Westermeier
- Plant Biomechanics Group, University of Freiburg, Botanic Garden, Schänzlestrasse 1, 79104 Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
| | - Tom Masselter
- Plant Biomechanics Group, University of Freiburg, Botanic Garden, Schänzlestrasse 1, 79104 Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
| | - Thomas Speck
- Plant Biomechanics Group, University of Freiburg, Botanic Garden, Schänzlestrasse 1, 79104 Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany Freiburg Materials Research Center (FMF), University of Freiburg, Stefan-Meier-Straße 21, 79104 Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
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Poppinga S, Haushahn T, Warnke M, Masselter T, Speck T. Sporangium Exposure and Spore Release in the Peruvian Maidenhair Fern (Adiantum peruvianum, Pteridaceae). PLoS One 2015; 10:e0138495. [PMID: 26444002 PMCID: PMC4596474 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0138495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2015] [Accepted: 08/31/2015] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
We investigated the different processes involved in spore liberation in the polypod fern Adiantum peruvianum (Pteridaceae). Sporangia are being produced on the undersides of so-called false indusia, which are situated at the abaxial surface of the pinnule margins, and become exposed by a desiccation-induced movement of these pinnule flaps. The complex folding kinematics and functional morphology of false indusia are being described, and we discuss scenarios of movement initiation and passive hydraulic actuation of these structures. High-speed cinematography allowed for analyses of fast sporangium motion and for tracking ejected spores. Separation and liberation of spores from the sporangia are induced by relaxation of the annulus (the 'throwing arm' of the sporangium catapult) and conservation of momentum generated during this process, which leads to sporangium bouncing. The ultra-lightweight spores travel through air with a maximum velocity of ~5 m s(-1), and a launch acceleration of ~6300 g is measured. In some cases, the whole sporangium, or parts of it, together with contained spores break away from the false indusium and are shed as a whole. Also, spores can stick together and form spore clumps. Both findings are discussed in the context of wind dispersal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon Poppinga
- Plant Biomechanics Group, University of Freiburg, Botanic Garden, Faculty of Biology, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
- Freiburg Materials Research Center (FMF), University of Freiburg, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
- * E-mail:
| | - Tobias Haushahn
- Plant Biomechanics Group, University of Freiburg, Botanic Garden, Faculty of Biology, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
| | - Markus Warnke
- Plant Biomechanics Group, University of Freiburg, Botanic Garden, Faculty of Biology, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
| | - Tom Masselter
- Plant Biomechanics Group, University of Freiburg, Botanic Garden, Faculty of Biology, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
| | - Thomas Speck
- Plant Biomechanics Group, University of Freiburg, Botanic Garden, Faculty of Biology, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
- Freiburg Materials Research Center (FMF), University of Freiburg, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
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Guo Q, Dai E, Han X, Xie S, Chao E, Chen Z. Fast nastic motion of plants and bioinspired structures. J R Soc Interface 2015; 12:0598. [PMID: 26354828 PMCID: PMC4614472 DOI: 10.1098/rsif.2015.0598] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2015] [Accepted: 08/19/2015] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The capability to sense and respond to external mechanical stimuli at various timescales is essential to many physiological aspects in plants, including self-protection, intake of nutrients and reproduction. Remarkably, some plants have evolved the ability to react to mechanical stimuli within a few seconds despite a lack of muscles and nerves. The fast movements of plants in response to mechanical stimuli have long captured the curiosity of scientists and engineers, but the mechanisms behind these rapid thigmonastic movements are still not understood completely. In this article, we provide an overview of such thigmonastic movements in several representative plants, including Dionaea, Utricularia, Aldrovanda, Drosera and Mimosa. In addition, we review a series of studies that present biomimetic structures inspired by fast-moving plants. We hope that this article will shed light on the current status of research on the fast movements of plants and bioinspired structures and also promote interdisciplinary studies on both the fundamental mechanisms of plants' fast movements and biomimetic structures for engineering applications, such as artificial muscles, multi-stable structures and bioinspired robots.
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Affiliation(s)
- Q Guo
- College of Materials Science and Engineering, Fujian University of Technology, Fuzhou 350108, China Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Advanced Materials Processing and Application, Fuzhou 350108, China
| | - E Dai
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University, St Louis, MO 63130, USA
| | - X Han
- Thayer School of Engineering, Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH 03755, USA
| | - S Xie
- Department of Energy, Environmental, and Chemical Engineering, Washington University, St Louis, MO 63130, USA
| | - E Chao
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University, St Louis, MO 63130, USA
| | - Z Chen
- Thayer School of Engineering, Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH 03755, USA
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Bach D, Schmich F, Masselter T, Speck T. A review of selected pumping systems in nature and engineering--potential biomimetic concepts for improving displacement pumps and pulsation damping. BIOINSPIRATION & BIOMIMETICS 2015; 10:051001. [PMID: 26335744 DOI: 10.1088/1748-3190/10/5/051001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
The active transport of fluids by pumps plays an essential role in engineering and biology. Due to increasing energy costs and environmental issues, topics like noise reduction, increase of efficiency and enhanced robustness are of high importance in the development of pumps in engineering. The study compares pumps in biology and engineering and assesses biomimetic potentials for improving man-made pumping systems. To this aim, examples of common challenges, applications and current biomimetic research for state-of-the art pumps are presented. The biomimetic research is helped by the similar configuration of many positive displacement pumping systems in biology and engineering. In contrast, the configuration and underlying pumping principles for fluid dynamic pumps (FDPs) differ to a greater extent in biology and engineering. However, progress has been made for positive displacement as well as for FDPs by developing biomimetic devices with artificial muscles and cilia that improve energetic efficiency and fail-safe operation or reduce noise. The circulatory system of vertebrates holds a high biomimetic potential for the damping of pressure pulsations, a common challenge in engineering. Damping of blood pressure pulsation results from a nonlinear viscoelastic behavior of the artery walls which represent a complex composite material. The transfer of the underlying functional principle could lead to an improvement of existing technical solutions and be used to develop novel biomimetic damping solutions. To enhance efficiency or thrust of man-made fluid transportation systems, research on jet propulsion in biology has shown that a pulsed jet can be tuned to either maximize thrust or efficiency. The underlying principle has already been transferred into biomimetic applications in open channel water systems. Overall there is a high potential to learn from nature in order to improve pumping systems for challenges like the reduction of pressure pulsations, increase of jet propulsion efficiency or the reduction of wear.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Bach
- Plant Biomechanics Group Freiburg, Botanic Garden, Faculty of Biology, University of Freiburg, Germany. Freiburg Materials Research Center (FMF), Germany
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