In this paper, we discuss new methods for characterising layered nanomaterials, where Raman spectroscopy can be used to build up high resolution statistical maps of a sample volume, containing information on material quality, and layer number and lateral size as obtained by world-leading metrics.

This gives a new route to better understanding nanomaterial network properties, to optimise and accelerate their uptake into new real-world technologies.

Building from the Langmuir deposition method described in the 2020 paper, thin film networks of molybdenum disulfide were investigated as substrates for cell culture.  A functional substrate approach allows for the cells under study to directly engage with the nanomaterials. In this way, previously unobserved cell–substrate mechanotransduction mechanisms and receptor-mediated uptake pathways were observed, where the internalised material was localised within the endoplasmic reticulum - a key cellular region that plays a role in diseases such as Alzheimer's.

Importantly, this work poses a new approach to nanomaterial–cell interfacing, and offers an exciting opportunity to develop the next generation of theranostics against diseases.

The posterior rectus sheath is part of the group of muscles that protect the abdominal wall, and is increasingly thought to be important in the repair of tissues after a hernia. Despite its importance, that mechanical and structural properties are currently undervalued not well understood, and better understanding of these could help to inform surgical methods for hernia treatments. For the development of new synthetic biomaterials, or 'meshes', for hernia repair; products should be designed with a mechanical strength, stiffness and anisotropy that matches the tissues being repaired. In light of this, this work aims to investigate the mechanical properties of the human posterior rectus sheath in terms of its ultimate tensile stress, stiffness, thickness and anisotropy. It also aims to assess the collagen fibre organisation of the tissue.

We have found that the posterior rectus sheath displays mechanical and structural anisotropy with greater tensile stress and stiffness in the transverse plane compared to the longitudinal plane, consistent with our observations of transversely aligned collagen fibres within the tissue. This is an important finding that will have very real impact in real-world applications by informing clinical specialists in the treatment of injuries.