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Is Your Biodesign ACTUALLY Sustainable?
Opening up a can of worms, AI, animal ethics, and more
Raphael Kim, PhD
November 08, 2024
In partnership with
Hello Biodesign Community,
Welcome to the latest edition of the Biodesign Academy newsletter!
This week, we’re exploring how AI advancements like ChatGPT’s real-time search function could reshape biodesign education, sharing insights on the latest biofabrication projects across the UK and Ireland, and getting stuck into some thought-provoking discussions on sustainable biodesign.
In Brief:
Commentary: How ChatGPT’s New Search Function Could Shape Biodesign Learning
Mapping Biodesign: Advancing Biodesign Beyond Animal Testing: UK & Ireland
Funding News: CARADT Receives NWO Funding for PRELIFE Project on Life’s Origins
Biodesign Skeptics’ Corner:
Coming Soon: Roland van Dierendonck, Andrea Brittnek, Yuning Chen, and Andrea Bandoni
Commentary 🎙
How ChatGPT’s New Search Function Could Shape Biodesign Learning
Our latest blog article explores how ChatGPT's new real-time search feature has the potential to reshape biodesign research and education. This tool lets ChatGPT pull current, real-time information directly from the internet, offering concise, synthesized insights rather than just a list of links.
Why This Matters for Biodesigners:
Biodesign is a rapidly evolving field, and staying updated on cutting-edge research in biomaterials, synthetic biology, and biofabrication is essential. ChatGPT’s search function allows educators and students to access the latest studies, industry trends, and regulatory updates instantly—ensuring course content and discussions stay fresh and relevant.
Plus, ChatGPT’s ability to tailor responses in tone, depth, and focus makes it ideal for diverse learning levels and interdisciplinary exploration.
Gif by pudgypenguins on Giphy
Five Key Benefits of ChatGPT Search for Biodesign Learning:
Access to up-to-date biodesign trends and research.
Synthesized, context-rich answers on complex topics.
Tailored explanations adaptable to different audiences.
Real-time Q&A capabilities for iterative learning.
Scalable mentorship support for biodesign programs.
As biodesign continues to evolve, tools like ChatGPT’s search function can offer new avenues for learning and support for professionals in the field.
Read the full article to see how ChatGPT could transform your biodesign practice.
Mapping Biodesign 🗺
Advancing Biodesign Beyond Animal Testing: UK & Ireland
A recent publication highlights groundbreaking biofabrication work in the UK and Ireland aimed at reducing reliance on animal testing in healthcare.
Through innovations like 3D bioprinting and tissue engineering, researchers are developing advanced in vitro models and biomimetic materials, offering sustainable and ethically driven alternatives for drug testing and medical device development.
This open-access paper not only promotes more compassionate research practices but also positions biofabrication at the forefront of ethical biodesign, advancing healthcare with a reduced environmental footprint.
And here is a map of UK and Ireland showing groups that are working on this topic:
A non-exhaustive regional breakdown of biofabrication and biomanufacturing groups from around the UK and Ireland as of March 2024
So has the illustration missed any that should be on the map? And which country breakdown would you like to see next? Reply to this newsletter, or send us a new message to [email protected].
Funding News 💵
CARADT Receives NWO Funding for PRELIFE Project on Life’s Origins
The Dutch Research Council (NWO) has awarded a grant to PRELIFE, a project exploring the origins of life on Earth and the potential for life elsewhere. This interdisciplinary initiative spans fields from astronomy to biology and chemistry, aiming to solve one of science’s biggest mysteries.
PRELIFE’s approach resonates with biodesign, combining scientific research with public engagement. CARADT’s role focuses on bridging science and society by coordinating artist residencies in three research groups.
These artists will create installations based on PRELIFE’s discoveries, showcased at festivals to make scientific concepts more accessible and inspiring. This project offers biodesigners a model of how art-science collaborations can deepen public understanding and inspire innovative design.
Key Collaborators
The work package brings together experts from Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences, University of Amsterdam, NextNature, Studio H, and more, fostering dialogue between science and society.
Congratulations to lead applicant Prof. Dr. Inge Loes ten Kate (Utrecht University) and all collaborators on this inspiring initiative.
Biodesign Skeptics’ Corner 🤔
Is Your Biodesign Actually Sustainable? (Opening a Can of Worms)
A recent study in Environmental Science and Technology opens up a can of worms—literally—about the environmental impact of bio-based materials. Research shows that bio-based fibers, such as viscose and lyocell, may actually harm earthworms, a species critical to soil health, more than conventional polyester.
High concentrations of these fibers caused up to 80% mortality among earthworms, with even lower, more realistic doses reducing their growth and reproduction.
Gif by yipan on Giphy
This finding serves as a critical reminder: we can’t embrace bio-based materials just because they’re labeled “natural” or “eco-friendly.” As biodesign gains traction, it’s essential to ensure that sustainable choices are backed by rigorous testing.
We encourage designers, students, and companies to ask themselves: Is my biodesign practice truly sustainable? Let's dig deeper, avoid unintended ecological harm, and advocate for bio-based innovation grounded in solid evidence.
CRISPR: Biodesign at the Molecular Level – Exciting but Caution Required
CRISPR gene editing is a revolutionary tool, allowing us to design and correct genetic material at the molecular level, opening exciting possibilities for biodesign. Researchers at the University of Zurich have demonstrated CRISPR’s potential to repair genetic defects, such as the one causing chronic granulomatous disease.
This brings us closer to designing solutions at the DNA level, where even the smallest genetic tweaks can have vast implications for medical and biodesign innovations.
However, this potential comes with risks. In the study, CRISPR's molecular scissors introduced new defects in some cases, leading to the loss of entire chromosomal sections. While the technology offers thrilling possibilities for precision biodesign, such unintended side effects—like the risk of developing leukemia—remind us that we must proceed with caution.
Gif by alastair_mccoll on Giphy
CRISPR opens a new chapter in crafting living systems and bio-based materials, but we must always ask ourselves: Are we fully aware of the long-term impacts and risks? As we look to the future of molecular biodesign, embracing this technology means balancing excitement with responsibility. The potential is there, but so is the need for careful, informed design.
Coming Soon 📣
Stay tuned for conversations with Roland van Dierendonck, Andrea Brittnek, Yuning Chen, and Andrea Bandoni, where we dive into biohaptics, mycelium graphic design, designing for Microbial Revolt, and objects that grow on trees. More updates coming your way in the next few days!
Thanks for tuning in to this edition of the Biodesign Academy newsletter! From fresh AI tools to the latest in biodesign innovation, we’re excited to keep exploring the intersections of science, technology, and design with you.
Keep an eye out for our upcoming conversations and more insights in the weeks ahead. Stay curious, and see you next time 👋🏼
Best wishes,
Biodesign Academy
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