Hybrid Materials that Integrate Living Cells: Improved Eco-Adaptation and Environmental Applications

Cell of Duty: The integration of living cells into hybrid materials enables the use of these cells in various new applications, under conditions that would normally be too harsh. Material scientists seek to develop materials-based chemical strategies to allow the cells to survive such environments and be used in, for example, biosensors, bioreactors, and self-powered devices. This Minireview provides an overview of artificial coatings for cell protection.