Engineers from MIT have created a 3D printing technique that involves the use of a new kind of ink made from "genetically programmed living cells." As a result, the cells are made to light up in response to a variety of stimuli.
To demonstrate the capabilities of this printing process, MIT engineers created a thin, transparent patch with cells arranged in the shape of a tree. After a test subject’s hand was covered in different chemical compounds and the living tattoo patch was placed on top, the branches of the tree began to light up due to a response between bacteria and the chemical stimuli. With this technology, researchers say that the technique may "be used to fabricate 'active' materials for wearable sensors and interactive displays."
Key Themes Behind This Trend
- Living Tattoo Technology
- The development of genetically programmed living cells used to create light-up tattoos on humans or objects, with potential applications in wearable tech and interactive displays.
- Active Materials on Wearable Sensors
- Fabrication of 'active' materials using this technique for wearable sensors, with the ability to respond to environmental or chemical stimuli.
- Interactive Display Innovation
- Potential for interactive displays to be created using this 3D-printing technique and living tattoo technology, using living cells to respond to touch or movement.
Where This Applies
- Biotechnology
- Living tattoo technology has the potential to be applied in the biotechnology industry for medical devices and innovative treatments.
- Wearable Technology
- The use of active materials created by this technique has potential applications in the wearable technology industry for advanced sensors and flexible displays.
- Arts and Entertainment
- The innovative living tattoo technology could open up new opportunities for interactive and personalized art and entertainment experiences.
