Genetically Programmable Self-Regenerating Bacterial Hydrogels

Abstract

A notable challenge for the design of engineered living materials (ELMs) is programming a cellular system to assimilate resources from its surroundings and convert them into macroscopic materials with specific functions. Here, an ELM that uses Escherichia coli as its cellular chassis and engineered curli nanofibers as its extracellular matrix component is demonstrated. Cell-laden hydrogels are created by concentrating curli-producing cultures. The rheological properties of the living hydrogels are modulated by genetically encoded factors and processing steps. The hydrogels have the ability to grow and self-renew when placed under conditions that facilitate cell growth. Genetic programming enables the gels to be customized to interact with different tissues of the gastrointestinal tract selectively. This work lays a foundation for the application of ELMs with therapeutic functions and extended residence times in the gut.

Keywords: curli fibers; engineered living materials; hydrogel; mucoadhesive protein nanofibers; self-regenerating material.