-Fibers interconnecting living cells-
The CNR-ISOF researchers, in collaboration with CNR-IMM, CNI@NEST of Pisa, University of Bologna, Polytechnic of Milan and Italian Institute of Technology of Milan, have investigated the ability of some thiophene-based oligomers to self-assemble into supramolecular fibers within living cells. The research team carried out a thorough investigation to understand the chemical, structural, optical and electrical properties of these fibers. It has been demonstrated that within cells, molecules organize themselves into a unique crystalline form, called bio-polymorph, which cannot be reproduced outside the cellular environment. These findings, published in the scientific journal Advanced Materials, provide a crucial insight into the formation process and the properties of these innovative materials assembled directly within a living organism. The fibers produced by this spontaneous process are capable of interconnecting different cells without altering their vitality, thereby offering a new approach for the creation or regeneration of cellular communication networks.
Soon online the full text on Advanced Materials Journal.