biointegrated

Biointegrated is an adjective used to describe systems, devices, materials, or processes designed to function in close and durable interaction with living organisms or biological processes. The term is used across disciplines to denote integration that respects biological compatibility and enables reciprocal function between synthetic and biological components.

In medicine and biomedical engineering, biointegration emphasizes the seamless incorporation of implants, sensors, prosthetics, and tissue constructs with living tissue. Achieving biointegration often requires biocompatible materials, surface engineering to promote cell attachment, and strategies to minimize immune rejection. Well-known examples include osseointegrated dental implants and orthopedic implants that bond with bone, as well as neural interfaces and biohybrid devices that combine living cells with electronics.

In materials science and architecture, biointegrated approaches develop surfaces, scaffolds, or structures that interact with biological systems or ecosystems. Biointegrated materials may promote tissue growth, host microbial communities for remediation, or support living architectures such as green façades and algae-powered façades.

In environmental and agricultural contexts, biointegration describes systems that couple biological processes with infrastructure—for example, biofilters, bioremediation setups, and microbial or plant-based sensors integrated into monitoring networks.

Benefits include improved compatibility and longevity of implants, enhanced sensing and control of physiological processes, and opportunities for sustainable design. Challenges encompass biocompatibility, long-term stability, regulatory and ethical considerations, and the need for multidisciplinary collaboration.

See also: biocompatibility, osseointegration, tissue engineering, biohybrid, bioelectronics.