Engineered living materials III : Structure, Function, and Scale

Abstract

Concluding this three-part series on Engineered Living Materials (ELMs), this dossier builds upon the previously discussed Biogenic Composition Ratio and production methodologies by analysing ELMs through the lens of material features and hierarchical organisation across length scales. We explore how nano-, micro-, and macrostructural properties emerge from biological components, enabling functionalities such as self-healing and adaptivity. The dossier closes by identifying key challenges – such as vascularisation, scalability, and biosafety – that must be overcome to advance ELMs into practical applications. This synthesis aims to inspire future research by providing a multidimensional perspective on the design and implementation of ELMs.