A dynamic biointerface controls mussel adhesion

Abstract

Marine mussel adhesion to surfaces has been extensively studied owing to its potential as an adhesive in wet conditions (1-3). However, most studies focus on the chemical binding mechanism of mussel byssus, an adhesive secreta, to surfaces (4), whereas the connections between living tissue and the byssus have rarely been explored. Although strong adherence of mussels on rocky reefs is necessary for survival, these sessile organisms can liberate themselves from anchored substrates to regain mobility when encountering predators or harsh environments (5). How do mussels ensure strong and compact connection to byssus yet quickly release it when needed? On page 829 of this issue, Sivasundarampillai et al. (6) reveal that the dynamic biointerface between mussel tissue and byssus plays an important role in Mytilus mussels. Their finding could be informative about how nonliving materials can be dynamically interfaced with living tissue, as in the case of detachable biosensors and medical implants.