The interfaces linking biological tissues and man-made devices is challenging due to mechanical mismatch, biofouling, and water content. Soft materials such as hydrogels have emerged in diverse applications, however, their unresolved problem is the loss of functions in a short period. This report explores natural connective tissue, called periostracum, which is perfectly bridged between biological tissue and inorganic nonliving shell with high durability for long-lasting functions. Its hierarchically designed strategy provides a novel blueprint to design durable soft materials for the interfacing device into tissue.
- Hyungbin Kim
- Heejin Lim
- Dong Soo Hwang