3D-printed mussel shells could create stronger body armour

With mussels able to cling to almost any surface using byssus threads, they are capable of withstanding powerful underwater forces. Now, a team of engineers has found a way to 3D print mussel shells and use them as body armour.

The researchers, from the University of Delaware in the US, say that the shells could be used to protect soldiers and emergency responders from hazardous materials. They also hope to use them to create prosthetic body parts that are stronger and more durable than traditional silicone or plastic prosthetics.

To create the mussel shells, the team used a 3D printing process known as projection micro-stereolithography. This involves projecting a series of digital images onto a vat of photosensitive resin, which hardens when exposed to light. By gradually building up the layers of resin, a three-dimensional object can be created.

The team used this technique to create mussel shells that were around 50 micrometers thick – far thinner than the 5 millimeter shells that are typically found in nature. However, the team found that these thin shells were still able to withstand underwater forces equivalent to around 100 times their own weight.

"The beauty of this process is that we can tune it very precisely so that each layer is only five micrometers thick and yet is still incredibly strong and tough compared with natural muscle tissue or shellfish," said Menachem Elimelech, one of the lead researchers on the project.

"This demonstrates how 3D printing could be used not just for prototyping but also for producing real functional components for devices."

Surfers warned of deadly toxic mussels in waters off Cornwall

The Cornwall Wildlife Trust has warned surfers of the presence of deadly toxic mussels in waters off Cornwall.

According to the trust, the blue mussels have been contaminated with a toxin called "mytilus edulis", which can cause dizziness, nausea and vomiting.

In a statement on its website, the trust said: "We have had reports of people becoming ill after eating these mussels in locations around Mount's Bay and the Eden Project.

"We would therefore advise people not to eat any blue mussels collected from estuaries or open coasts in Cornwall."

The trust advised people who have already eaten the affected mussels to seek medical attention if they experience any symptoms.

Mussels found to be effective in reducing bad cholesterol levels

The humble mussel has long been known as a nutritious and delicious seafood, but a new study has found that it could also help to reduce bad cholesterol levels.

The study, which was carried out by researchers at the University of Guelph in Canada, looked at the effects of mussels on volunteers who had high cholesterol levels. The results showed that eating a single serving of mussels per week led to a significant reduction in bad cholesterol levels.

Mussels are a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, which have been shown to be beneficial for heart health. They are also low in calories and fat, and contain plenty of protein and antioxidants.

If you're looking for a healthy and delicious way to lower your bad cholesterol levels, then why not try some mussels? They can be cooked in many different ways, so there's definitely something for everyone.

'Miracle' mussel protein could hold key to curing cancer

A protein found in mussels could hold the key to curing cancer, scientists believe.

The 'miracle' molecule, called Hemocyanin, is found in the blood of the mollusc and has been shown to kill cancer cells without harming healthy tissue.

Initial tests have shown that Hemocyanin can stop the growth of tumours in mice, and further research is now underway to see if it could be used to treat human patients.

Lead researcher Professor Stefan Brüser, from Johannes Gutenberg University in Germany, said: "The beauty of this protein is that it specifically attacks cancer cells and leaves healthy cells unharmed.

"This makes it a potentially ideal treatment for cancer patients, as it would avoid the current problem of harmful side effects associated with many cancer treatments."

Hemocyanin is thought to work by disrupting the internal structure of cancer cells, causing them to die. The molecule has also been shown to be effective against some of the most resistant forms of cancer, including pancreatic and brain tumours.

In tests so far, Hemocyanin has been shown to be equally effective against both drug-resistant and drug-sensitive cancers cells. This suggests that the molecule could be used as a 'one size fits all' treatment for cancer patients.

So far Hemocyanin has only been tested on mice but human trials are due to start soon. If these prove successful, then Hemocyanin could become available as a mainstream treatment within the next five years.

Researchers develop new adhesive inspired by mussels

A team of researchers has developed a new adhesive inspired by the mussels that cling to rocks in oceans and lakes. The adhesive, made from a synthetic polymer, could be used to create a new generation of waterproof adhesives and sealants.

The mussel adhesive is based on proteins that allow the mollusks to cling to underwater surfaces. The new adhesive is said to be twice as strong as commercial adhesives and can withstand water pressure up to 100 times greater than traditional glues.

The key to the adhesive's strength is its ability to form a watertight bond in wet environments. "The mussel has an amazing ability to stick under extremely wet and adverse conditions," said researcher Jianyu Wang. "We've been able to reproduce that capability through rational design."

The new adhesive could have a variety of applications, including boat hulls, medical implants, and construction materials.