Module 1

• Biology for Engineers is an interdisciplinary program that focuses

on the application of engineering principles to analyse biological
systems and to solve problems arising in the interfacing of such
systems – animal, plant or mircrobial with human designed
machines, structures, processes & instrumentation.
• The basic goal is to design technology that operates in harmony
with the biology of living systems.
• It aims to improve upon the the four naturally occuring properties
in nature
1. Animal or Human Health
2. Food Sustainability
3. Biological Materials
4. Energy production/longevity
• Some marvels of Biological Engineering are as follows
1. Biomolecular Modelling
2. Bioinformatics
3. Genetic Engineering of Animals
4. Genetic Engineering of Proteins, Drugs
5. Neural Engineering
6. Cell and Tissue Engineering
7. Biomaterials
• The human body is a bioengineering marvel, seamlessly
integrating intricate systems for optimal function. Its cellular
machinery orchestrates complex processes like metabolism and
reproduction. The skeletal system provides structural support,
while muscles enable movement with remarkable precision. The
circulatory system, a network of veins and arteries, efficiently
transports nutrients and oxygen. The immune system defends
against invaders, showcasing adaptive responses. The brain, a
neural masterpiece, coordinates diverse functions, including
thoughts and emotions. DNA, the genetic blueprint, ensures
continuity and diversity. Remarkably adaptable, the body heals,
regulates temperature, and maintains homeostasis. This intricate
design exemplifies unparalleled bioengineering, evolving over
millions of years for survival and adaptation.
• Our eyes are like a better version cameras. The cornea and lens
focus light on the retina, acting like a camera's film. The iris
adjusts, like a camera's aperture controlling light. Our eyes send
signals to the brain, similar to a camera capturing pictures. Unlike
cameras, our eyes adapt to light changes, constantly focusing, and
give us a vivid, real-time view of the world.
• Birds inspire engineers by showcasing efficient flight, influencing
aircraft design. For instance, the Boeing 777 borrows from bird
adaptations. Birds are masters of lightweight yet strong
structures, inspiring the aircraft's composite materials. Bird wings'
flexibility and adaptability guide the design of aircraft wings for
better aerodynamics and fuel efficiency. Boeing's use of advanced
materials in the 777, mirroring bird adaptations, reduces weight
and enhances performance. Just as birds effortlessly navigate the
sky, engineers learn from nature, creating aircraft that soar
gracefully, reflecting the ingenious principles evolved by birds over
millions of years. This biomimicry not only makes aircraft lighter
but also enhances their overall efficiency and environmental
impact.
• Snow geese fly in a V shape to benefit from aerodynamic
advantages. This formation reduces wind resistance, allowing the
geese to conserve energy during long flights. The lead goose
creates an uplift, making it easier for the birds behind to fly.
Similarly, Airbus's fello'fly concept draws inspiration from this
natural formation. Fello'fly involves commercial aircraft flying in a
V-shaped formation to harness the trailing aircraft's lift, improving
fuel efficiency. By riding in the wake of the lead aircraft, the
follower experiences reduced drag, resulting in fuel savings. This
innovative approach aligns with nature's efficiency, demonstrating
how aviation technology can learn from the elegant strategies
employed by migratory birds.
• Brownian motion (or Pedesis) is the random movement of
particles suspended in a medium. It was first observed by the
Botanist Robert Brown in 1827. The particles subjected to
Brownian motion tend to move in a zig-zag fashion causing energy
transfer either completely or partially. This phenomenon is
inversely proportional to the viscosity of the medium the particle
 subjected to Brownian motion is in and the size of the particle.
Smaller is the particle, more is the energy it gets from collision,
and the faster it moves. Examples of Browninan motion are pollen
grains in water, dust in air (tyndall effect), movement of water
molecules, diffusion of calcium into the bones, diffusion of
pollutants in the air & plasma partciles in the cell.
• Thermodynamics and biology collaborate seamlessly in nature.
Plants, following thermodynamic principles, convert sunlight into
energy through photosynthesis. The human eye, a biological
marvel, adheres to thermodynamics by transforming light into
nerve signals for the brain. Nerves themselves rely on
thermodynamic principles to transmit electrical signals efficiently.
Muscles, driven by thermodynamics, convert chemical energy into
mechanical work for movement. In essence, life processes, from
plant energy conversion to the intricacies of eyes, nerves, and
muscles, harmonize with the fundamental laws of
thermodynamics, showcasing a profound interplay between
physics and biology.