Living Liquid Crystal Responds to Bacteria Movements

Feb-19-14 The development of “living liquid crystal” could allow researchers to more easily see the early signs of disease, allowing for earlier detection and treatment.

The hybrid liquid crystal is made from a non-toxic, water-based liquid crystal that has been combined with live bacteria. Developed by a team from Kent State University, the biomechanical hybrid reshapes itself in response to external stimuli in a relatively easy-to-see fashion. In tests, researchers were able to see the wake created by bacterial flagella using a common polarizing microscope.

The team was also able to control the movement of the bacteria by altering the oxygen supply, temperature or alignment of the surface, opening the door to new types of microfluidic biological sensors.

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