MIT researchers develop underwater ‘superglue’ from mussels and bacteria

by
Scope Correspondent

Mussels, pounded by the oceans’ waves, fasten themselves to rocks as a matter of survival. Bacteria cast protein nets to hold onto surfaces for dear life. Now MIT researchers have combined the two in a clever new way, producing the best-ever underwater glue inspired by Mother Nature—and a potential replacement for today’s surgical stitches.

The new study, published in Nature Nanotechnology on September 21, describes glue made of super-sticky, self-assembling networks of protein fiber. Led by Chao Zhong—a physical science professor at ShanghaiTech University and former MIT post-doc—the study addresses an enormous need: man’s lack of effective underwater adhesives.

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Underwater Glue, Inspired by Nature, Could Help Replace Stitches

by
Scope Correspondent

It can be a challenge to make adhesives that stay sticky in wet conditions, but it’s an important task–especially in surgery, where repairs may need to hold strong amidst blood and other bodily fluids. But marine organisms like mussels, barnacles, and bacteria have figured out how to stick to wet rocks and surfaces with incredible strength. Researchers at MIT decided to steal a few tricks from these creatures. Read more at NOVA Next.