About this Research Topic
The morphogenesis of integumentary surfaces and nanostructures remains a vast and unexplored field. Their optimized, often hierarchical, structure suggests precise control over biomaterial assembly in space and time. However, how organisms exert precise nanometer control to produce different nanostructures and biomaterials with varying properties is still unknown. The need to identify the genetics, physics, and developmental processes that govern biomaterial organization and structure is especially important today where there is an increasing need for bio-inspired, sustainable material alternatives in manufacturing. With this collection of research articles, we aim to further our understanding of the genes and developmental processes used by biological systems to craft surface micro- and nanostructures through control of biomaterial properties.
In this Research Topic, we are looking for articles that address the genetics or developmental processes regulating integumentary, biopolymeric micro- and nanostructures in diverse organisms, including animals, plants, fungi, and bacteria. Possible approaches range from experimental (e.g., functional cell developmental biology, genetics, genomics) to theoretical (e.g., photonics modeling, cell mechanics, phase separation thermodynamics). Eco-evo-devo approaches that link development and environmental factors are also welcome.
Keywords: biophotonics, structural colors, integument, cuticle, cell wall, structures, biomechanics, hierarchical organization, chitin, cellulose, keratin, cell shape and polarity, cytoskeleton dynamics, self-assembly
Important Note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.