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Inspired by nature: the thrilling new science that could transform medicine
Key Excerpts from Article on Website of The Guardian (One of the UK's leading newspapers)
Posted: July 30th, 2017
https://www.theguardian.com/science/2016/oct/25/bioinspirati...
In the summer of 2005, Jeffrey Karp, a bioengineer at Brigham and Womens Hospital [read an] article [detailing] how a group of researchers had created a new synthetic material by mimicking the properties of gecko feet whose tiny, hair-like pillars allow the lizard to stick to and detach from apparently sheer surfaces with ease. His first thought was to use the material to create a new type of medical tape that could replace sutures and staples, which can damage sensitive tissue surrounding wounds. In 2008, MITs Technology Review magazine named Karp one of the top innovators in the world under the age of 35. Karp, who is now 40 and runs his own lab ... is what is known in the business as a bioinspirationalist a person who looks to nature for solutions to scientific problems. The gecko tape was Karps first bioinspired invention. Karps current projects include surgical staples inspired by porcupine quills, which create smaller punctures in the skin and prevent bacteria from entering wounds, and a new kind of surgical glue inspired by ... marine worms, which is strong enough to bind moving tissue inside major organs. This last invention has helped to cement Karps reputation as a rising star in the world of bioengineering. Because he doesnt just invent cool stuff he turns his creations into actual products. When we look to solve problems, its not so we can publish papers, said Nick Sherman, a research technician at Karp Lab. Its more like, Is this work going to help patients?
Note: Don't miss pictures and detailed descriptions of some of Karp's nature-inspired inventions at the link above. Explore a treasure trove of concise summaries of incredibly inspiring news articles which will inspire you to make a difference.
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