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A special issue of Biomimetics (ISSN 2313-7673).

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (30 March 2026) | Viewed by 20110

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Prof. Dr. Stanislav N. Gorb

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Department of Functional Morphology and Biomechanics, Zoological Institute, Kiel University, 24118 Kiel, Germany
Interests: biological attachment; functional morphology; biomechanics; biotribology; biomimetics
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Prof. Dr. Longjian Xue

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School of Power and Mechanical Engineering, Wuhan University, South Donghu Road 8, Wuhan 430072, China
Interests: bioinspired adhesives; superwettability; drag reduction, porous material; additive manufacturing
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Dr. Barbara Mazzolai

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Bioinspired Soft Robotics (BSR), Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia (IIT), Via Morego 30, 16163 Genova, Italy
Interests: plant-inspired robotics; self-growing robots; soft robotics; biomimetics; robotics for biology; variable stiffness soft actuators; plant-hybrid energy
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Prof. Dr. Phillip B. Messersmith

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Guest Editor

Departments of Bioengineering and Materials Science and Engineering, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA
Interests: biomimetic materials; materials for medicine; nanotechnology

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Biomimetics research on living systems attempts to transfer their properties to engineering applications. Biological materials, structures, and processes are predominantly based on the combination of various effects at different scales: the nano-, micro-, meso-, and macroscale. This Special Issue focuses on recent advances in various areas of biomimetics: (1) materials and structures; (2) designs, constructions, and devices; (3) surfaces and interfaces; (4) architecture and climatization; (5) locomotion and bioinspired robotics; (6) sensorics, information processing and control; (7) chemical biomimetics; and (8) energy biomimetics. We also encourage the submission of manuscripts that explore the relationships between these topics and are devoted to the development of biomimetic methodologies.

This Special Issue also welcomes the submission of papers that focus on the proper identification of the underlying principles in nature, and manuscripts that apply findings regarding exising systems to modern technologies. This Special Issue of Biomimetics calls for theoretical, experimental, and review articles related to the fields of biology, physics, material science and engineering.

Prof. Dr. Stanislav N. Gorb
Prof. Dr. Longjian Xue
Dr. Barbara Mazzolai
Prof. Dr. Phillip B. Messersmith
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 250 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for assessment.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Biomimetics is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2200 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

biomimetics of materials and structures
biomimetic design, constructions, and devices
biomimetic surfaces and interfaces
bioinspired architecture and climatization
locomotion and bioinspired robotics
bioinspired sensorics, information processing and control
biomimetic processing, optimisation, management
biomimetic processing and molecular biomimetics
energy biomimetics
development of biomimetic methodology

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Published Papers (11 papers)

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Editorial

Jump to: Research, Review

5 pages, 153 KB

Open AccessEditorial

Advances in Biomimetics: Patents from Nature

by Stanislav N. Gorb, Longjian Xue, Barbara Mazzolai and Phillip B. Messersmith

Biomimetics 2026, 11(5), 303; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics11050303 - 27 Apr 2026

Viewed by 606

Abstract

Biomimetics seeks to translate principles from living systems into innovative engineering solutions by drawing on the remarkable efficiency, adaptability, and multifunctionality found in nature [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Biomimetics: Patents from Nature)

Research

Jump to: Editorial, Review

21 pages, 3362 KB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Different Characters of the Pitcher Trap Syndrome in Nepenthes on Insect Trapping Efficiency: A Biomimetic Approach

by Elena V. Gorb, Meike Lange, Anna Jamke and Stanislav N. Gorb

Biomimetics 2026, 11(3), 180; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics11030180 - 3 Mar 2026

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 587

Abstract

The aim of our study was to determine the importance of different pitcher syndrome characters (size of the trap, the presence of inner microscopic surface coverage, physical properties of the pitcher fluid) for insect trapping efficiency using artificial, “biomimetic” pitchers. We performed trapping experiments with Drosophila melanogaster flies, applied cryo scanning electron microscopy for characterization of the topography of surface coatings and visualization of their contaminability effects on insect attachment organs, and conducted contact angle measurements with different liquids used in experiments. The type of the liquid used as the pitcher fluid had the most important impact on the trapping efficiency; surfactant-containing liquids exhibiting strong wetting properties provided a high number of trapped flies. The diameter of the trap rather than its height influenced insect trapping efficiency; apparently, because wider traps provide a larger space for more insects to get into a trap, they captured more flies in comparison to narrower traps. The presence of both the calcium carbonate and kaolin coatings mimicking the epicuticular wax coverage inside pitchers in many Nepenthes species additionally contributed to the trapping success due to a reduction of contact between insect feet and the trap surface and to contamination of flies’ attachment organs by detached microparticles. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Biomimetics: Patents from Nature)

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15 pages, 10591 KB

Open AccessArticle

Hydraulic Asymmetries for Biological and Bioinspired Valves in Tubular Channels: A Numerical Analysis

by Francesco Varnier, Reza Norouzikudiani, Giovanni Corsi, Daniele Agostinelli, Ido Levin and Antonio DeSimone

Biomimetics 2026, 11(2), 87; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics11020087 - 26 Jan 2026

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 855

Abstract

Biological, biomimetic, and engineering systems make extensive use of hydraulic asymmetries to control flow inside tubular structures. Examples span physiological valves, the guided transport observed in shark intestines, and passive devices such as Tesla valves. Here we investigate the mechanisms that generate these asymmetries using the notion of diodicity, defined as the ratio between pressure drops required to drive the same flow in opposite directions. We first focus on 2D geometries, which allow us to identify and study the main contributions to hydraulic asymmetry: channel geometry and internal obstacles embedded within a channel with rigid walls. By considering both rigid and deformable obstacles, we model channels that always remain open in both directions and channels that can be completely blocked by valve-like structures. We then extend the analysis to 3D geometries, again considering rigid and elastic cases. As a general trend, we find that geometry alone establishes a baseline diodicity, while higher dimensionality and structural reconfiguration consistently amplify the effect. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Biomimetics: Patents from Nature)

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17 pages, 1569 KB

Open AccessArticle

Mechanical Characterization of Stick Insect Tarsal Attachment Fluid Using Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM)

by Martin Becker, Alexander E. Kovalev, Thies H. Büscher and Stanislav N. Gorb

Biomimetics 2026, 11(1), 42; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics11010042 - 6 Jan 2026

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 718

Abstract

Most insects secrete special fluids from their tarsal pads which are essential for the function of their attachment systems. Previous studies investigated several physical and chemical characteristics of this pad fluid in different insect species. However, there is not much known about the mechanical properties of fluid from smooth adhesive pads. In this study, we used the stress–relaxation nanoindentation method to examine the viscoelastic properties of pad fluid from Sungaya aeta. Force–displacement and stress–relaxation curves on single fluid droplets were recorded with an atomic force microscope (AFM) and analyzed using Johnson–Kendall–Roberts (JKR) and generalized Maxwell models for determination of effective elastic modulus (E), work of adhesion (Δγ) and dynamic viscosity (η). In addition, we used white light interferometry (WLI) to measure the maximal height of freshly acquired droplets. Our results revealed three different categories of droplets, which we named “almost inviscid”, “viscous” and “rigid”. They are presumably determined at the moment of secretion and retain their characteristics even for several days. The observed mechanical properties suggest a non-uniform composition of different droplets. These findings provide a basis for advancing our understanding about the requirements for adaptive adhesion-mediating fluids and, hence, aid in advancing technical solutions for soft or liquid temporal adhesives and gripping devices. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Biomimetics: Patents from Nature)

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12 pages, 5175 KB

Open AccessArticle

Bioinspired Swimming Robots with 3D Biomimetic Shark Denticle Structures for Controlled Marangoni Propulsion

by Kang Yang, Chengming Wang, Lei Jiang, Ruochen Fang and Zhichao Dong

Biomimetics 2025, 10(8), 479; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics10080479 - 22 Jul 2025

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1849

Abstract

Shark skin exhibits a well-defined multilayered architecture, consisting of three-dimensional denticles and an underlying dermal layer, which contributes to its passive drag reduction. However, the active drag reduction mechanisms of this interface remain largely unexplored. In this study, the Marangoni effect potentially arising from the active secretion of mucus on shark skin is investigated. A 3D-printed swimming robot with a porous substrate and a biomimetic shark denticle structure is developed. By introducing surfactants into the porous substrate and adjusting denticle arrangements, on-demand propulsion and controlled swimming trajectories are achieved. A superhydrophobic surface is fabricated on the swimming robot, which reduces water resistance and enhances propulsion. Moreover, denticles with a 30° attack angle demonstrate optimal propulsion performance in both Marangoni-driven hydrodynamics and aerodynamics. This study suggests that the secretion of mucus on shark skin may facilitate active drag reduction via the Marangoni effect, offering novel insights into the biomimetic structural design of autonomous swimming robots. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Biomimetics: Patents from Nature)

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16 pages, 1903 KB

Open AccessArticle

Enhancing Legged Robot Locomotion Through Smooth Transitions Using Spiking Central Pattern Generators

by Horacio Rostro-Gonzalez, Erick I. Guerra-Hernandez, Patricia Batres-Mendoza, Andres A. Garcia-Granada, Miroslava Cano-Lara and Andres Espinal

Biomimetics 2025, 10(6), 381; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics10060381 - 7 Jun 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2013

Abstract

In this work, we propose the integration of a mechanism to enable smooth transitions between different locomotion patterns in a hexapod robot. Specifically, we utilize a spiking neural network (SNN) functioning as a Central Pattern Generator (CPG) to generate three distinct locomotion patterns, or gaits: walk, jog, and run. This network produces coordinated spike trains, mimicking those generated in the brain, which are translated into synchronized robot movements via PWM signals. Subsequently, these spike trains are compared using a similarity metric known as SPIKE-synchronization to identify the optimal point for transitioning from one gait to another. This approach aims to achieve three main objectives: first, to maintain the robot’s balance during transitions; second, to ensure that gait transitions are almost imperceptible; and third, to improve energy efficiency by reducing abrupt changes in the robot’s actuators (servomotors). To validate our proposal, we incorporated FSR sensors on the robot’s legs to detect the rigidity of the terrain it navigates. Based on the terrain’s rigidity, the robot dynamically transitions between gaits. The system was tested in real time on a physical hexapod robot across four different types of terrain. Although the method was validated exclusively on a hexapod robot, it can be extended to any legged robot. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Biomimetics: Patents from Nature)

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28 pages, 81257 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Drosophila Connectome as a Computational Reservoir for Time-Series Prediction

by Leone Costi, Alexander Hadjiivanov, Dominik Dold, Zachary F. Hale and Dario Izzo

Biomimetics 2025, 10(5), 341; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics10050341 - 21 May 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2849

Abstract

In this work, we explore the possibility of using the topology and weight distribution of the connectome of a Drosophila, or fruit fly, as a reservoir for multivariate chaotic time-series prediction. Based on the information taken from the recently released full connectome, we create the connectivity matrix of an Echo State Network. Then, we use only the most connected neurons and implement two possible selection criteria, either preserving or breaking the relative proportion of different neuron classes which are also included in the documented connectome, to obtain a computationally convenient reservoir. We then investigate the performance of such architectures and compare them to state-of-the-art reservoirs. The results show that the connectome-based architecture is significantly more resilient to overfitting compared to the standard implementation, particularly in cases already prone to overfitting. To further isolate the role of topology and synaptic weights, hybrid reservoirs with the connectome topology but random synaptic weights and the connectome weights but random topologies are included in the study, demonstrating that both factors play a role in the increased overfitting resilience. Finally, we perform an experiment where the entire connectome is used as a reservoir. Despite the much higher number of trained parameters, the reservoir remains resilient to overfitting and has a lower normalized error, under 2%, at lower regularisation, compared to all other reservoirs trained with higher regularisation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Biomimetics: Patents from Nature)

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18 pages, 6674 KB

Open AccessArticle

Model Predictive Control with Optimal Modelling for Pneumatic Artificial Muscle in Rehabilitation Robotics: Confirmation of Validity Though Preliminary Testing

by Dexter Felix Brown and Sheng Quan Xie

Biomimetics 2025, 10(4), 208; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics10040208 - 28 Mar 2025

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 1936

Abstract

This paper presents a model predictive controller (MPC) based on dynamic models generated using the Particle Swarm Optimisation method for accurate motion control of a pneumatic artificial muscle (PAM) for application in rehabilitation robotics. The physical compliance and lightweight nature of PAMs make them desirable for use in the field but also introduce nonlinear dynamic properties which are difficult to accurately model and control. As well as the MPC, three other control systems were examined for a comparative study: a particle-swarm optimised proportional-integral-derivative controller (PSO-PID), an iterative learning controller (ILC), and classical PID control. A series of different waveforms were used as setpoints for each controller, including addition of external loading and simulated disturbance, for a system consisting of a single PAM. Based on the displacement error measured for each experiment, the PID controller performed worst with the largest error values and an issue with oscillating about the setpoint. PSO-PID performed better but still poorly compared with the other intelligent controllers, as well as still exhibiting oscillation, which is undesirable in any human–robot interaction as it can heavily impact the comfort and safety of the system. ILC performed well with rapid convergence to steady-state and low-error values, as well as mitigation of loads and disturbance; however, it performed poorly under changing frequency of input. MPC generally performed the best of the controllers tested here, with the lowest error values and a rapid response to changes in setpoint, as well as no required learning period due to the predictive algorithm. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Biomimetics: Patents from Nature)

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14 pages, 18226 KB

Open AccessArticle

Smart Bio-Nanocoatings with Simple Post-Synthesis Reversible Adjustment

by Mikhail Kryuchkov, Zhehui Wang, Jana Valnohova, Vladimir Savitsky, Mirza Karamehmedović, Marc Jobin and Vladimir L. Katanaev

Biomimetics 2025, 10(3), 163; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics10030163 - 7 Mar 2025

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1738

Abstract

Nanopatterning of signal-transmitting proteins is essential for cell physiology and drug delivery but faces challenges such as high cost, limited pattern variability, and non-biofriendly materials. Arthropods, particularly beetles (Coleoptera), offer a natural model for biomimetic nanopatterning due to their diverse corneal nanostructures. Using atomic force microscopy (AFM), we analyzed Coleoptera corneal nanocoatings and identified dimpled nanostructures that can transform into maze-like/nipple-like protrusions. Further analysis suggested that these modifications result from a temporary, self-assembled process influenced by surface adhesion. We identified cuticular protein 7 (CP7) as a key component of dimpled nanocoatings. Biophysical analysis revealed CP7’s unique self-assembly properties, allowing us to replicate its nanopatterning ability in vitro. Our findings demonstrate CP7’s potential for bioinspired nanocoatings and provide insights into the evolutionary mechanisms of nanostructure formation. This research paves the way for cost-effective, biomimetic nanopatterning strategies with applications in nanotechnology and biomedicine. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Biomimetics: Patents from Nature)

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28 pages, 10675 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Mechanics of Bio-Inspired Protective Scales

by Antonio Pantano and Vincenzo Baiamonte

Biomimetics 2025, 10(2), 75; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics10020075 - 25 Jan 2025

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2992

Abstract

Natural armors found in animals like fish and armadillos offer inspiration for designing protective systems that balance puncture resistance and flexibility. Although segmented armors have been used historically, modern applications are hindered by a limited understanding of their mechanics. This study addresses these challenges by presenting two novel bio-inspired scale structures with overlapping and staggered configurations, modeled after the elasmoid designs found in fish. Their shapes differ significantly from other artificial scales commonly described in the literature, which are typically flat. Instead, these scales feature a support that extends vertically from the substrate, transitioning into an inclined surface that serves as the protective component. Finite element method tests evaluated their performance in puncture resistance and flexibility. The results showed that one type of scale provided better puncture resistance, while the other type offered greater flexibility. These findings highlight how small geometric variations can significantly influence the balance between protection and flexibility. The results offer new insights into the mechanisms of natural armor and propose innovative designs for personal protective equipment, such as bulletproof vests, protective gloves, and fireproof systems. The finite element simulations employed to test the protective systems can also serve as valuable tools for the scientific community to assess and refine designs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Biomimetics: Patents from Nature)

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Review

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41 pages, 6076 KB

Open AccessReview

Advancements and Challenges in Tissue-Engineered Heart Valves: Integrating Biomechanics, Biomaterials, and Biomimetic Design for Functional Maturity

by Lorenzo Guidi, Elisabetta Rosellini, Gaia Riccio and Maria Grazia Cascone

Biomimetics 2026, 11(3), 185; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics11030185 - 4 Mar 2026

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1447

Abstract

Valvular heart disease remains a major global health burden, with currently available prosthetic heart valves failing to fully reproduce the adaptive, regenerative, and long-term functional properties of native valves. Tissue-engineered heart valves (TEHVs) have emerged as a promising alternative, aiming to develop living valve replacements capable of growth, remodeling, and physiological integration. However, despite substantial progress, the clinical translation of TEHVs remains limited, indicating the need for design strategies that go beyond material selection toward functionally mature constructs. This review presents recent advances in TEHV development from a biomimetic perspective, using native heart valves as a biological reference characterized by hierarchical structure, anisotropic mechanical behavior, mechanoresponsive cell populations, immune regulation, and temporally coordinated remodeling. We integrate current understanding of valve biology and mechanobiology with advances in scaffold materials and architecture, bioactive functionalization, biomechanical conditioning, and emerging fabrication and monitoring technologies. We discuss how biomimetic scaffold designs aim to replicate native extracellular matrix organization and nonlinear mechanics, how biological cues are used to regulate thrombosis, immune response, and cell recruitment, and how dynamic bioreactor systems support functional tissue maturation through controlled mechanical stimulation. Finally, key challenges for clinical translation are highlighted, and future directions are outlined, emphasizing integrated and biomimetically informed design approaches. Overall, this review aims to define guiding principles that may accelerate the development of durable, regenerative, and clinically translatable tissue-engineered heart valves. We argue that successful TEHV translation requires synchronized control of scaffold anisotropy, immune modulation, and mechanical conditioning rather than incremental material optimization. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Biomimetics: Patents from Nature)

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