NOVA’s series “Making Stuff: Smarter” highlighted the research of Professor Anthony Brennan, Margaret A. Ross Professor of Materials Science and Engineering. Prof. Brennan has been investigating the thermodynamics of cell adhesion to materials with a special focus on the effects of surface topography. One technology from his research group, Sharklet, is a bioinspired surface texture that has a unique ability to control bioadhesion.
The NOVA program gave an overview of the anti-bacterial behavior of the Sharklet and its potential to inhibit bacterial colonization without chemical agents. The development of the technology was also presented on the CBS Sunday Morning program for its potential use to prevent biofouling on the surfaces of ships, which was funded by the Office of Naval Research.
http://www.myfoxtampabay.com/story/18053875/shark-skin-used-to-keep-germs-at-bay