title: Using cell structures to develop functional nanomaterials and nanostructures--case studies of actin filaments and microtubules.
abstract: This article is based on the continued development of biologically relevant elements (i.e., actin filaments and microtubules in living cells) as building blocks to create functional nanomaterials and nanostructures that can then be used to manufacture nature-inspired small-scale devices or systems. Here, we summarize current progress in the field and focus specifically on processes characterized by (1) robustness and ease of use, (2) inexpensiveness, and (3) potential expandability to mass production. This article, we believe, will provide scientists and engineers with a more comprehensive understanding of how to mine biological materials and natural design features to construct functional materials and devices.
authors.affiliation: Department of Chemical Engineering, National Taiwan University, Taipei 10617, Taiwan.
authors.forename: Kevin Chia-Wen
authors.initials: KC
authors.lastname: Wu
authors.forename: Chung-Yao
authors.initials: CY
authors.lastname: Yang
authors.forename: Chao-Min
authors.initials: CM
authors.lastname: Cheng
mesh_terms: D016475:3T3 Cells; D008841:Actin Cytoskeleton / Q000737:chemistry*; D000818:Animals; D032701:Biomimetics / Q000379:methods*; D015374:Biosensing Techniques; D016503:Drug Delivery Systems; D007668:Kidney; D051379:Mice; D008870:Microtubules / Q000737:chemistry*; D049329:Nanostructures / Q000737:chemistry*; D013552:Swine