Cells
Detailed microscopic images of living cells.Copyright National Institute of General Medical Sciences , National Institutes of Health http://www.nigms.nih.gov/Publications/FactSheet_Cells.htm
In this unit, students look at the components of cells and their functions and discover the controversy behind stem cell research.
Engineers design systems to remove harmful bacteria found in drinking water. So, clearly, they know a lot about cell behavior in order to design beneficial systems. And, engineers use their knowledge of cells to make products that offer strong protection against harmful bacteria and also enhance the growth of beneficial bacteria (such as soap vs. compounds to break down harmful pollution). Through the process of bioremediation, engineers use their knowledge of cells to promote the growth of cells that break down toxic compounds into harmless byproducts that aid in the protection of our environment.
From engineering tools for observation on the molecular level to chemical and bioengineering of natural fluorescent dyes to examine cell replication in an organism, engineering developments and design have helped advance research of all types of cells. Engineering influences science and medical research by facilitating the understanding of how cells are influenced in all directions by their environment and how they behave in our bodies.