numerous microporous materials, such as those that provide the framework for coral reefs or those that compose the spines of sea urchins. These macro-biomaterials are characterized by highly interconnected porous networks, with a wide range of porosities (Weber and White, 1973). Because of their geometric and material properties, coral structures and urchin spines are used in vascular graft construction and orthopedic surgical repairs (see White and White, p. 79 in this report). Identification of the natural convoluted geometries and fouling-resistant surface features of coral has been a key factor prompting consideration of other biotechnology approaches to successful biomimicry and biomaterials manufacture. Marine organisms can provide many more novel models for biomolecular materials design.

New biotechnologies have been introduced for biocompatible, self-limiting, implantable biomedical devices based on “storage biopolymers,” such as polyhydroxyalkanoates, which are abundant in marine microorganisms (see Laurencin, p. 83 in this report; Madison and Huisman, 1999). New opportunities also exist for high-value biomedical products, such as drug-delivery units, based on chitin from marine crabs and other crustaceans (Felt et al., 1998; Janes and Alonso, 2001; Sato et al., 2001). The enormous supply of chitin and chitosan biopolymers serves as a base for hydrogel-like hosts for various medicinal ingredients, including antibiotics, and provides good wound-dressing qualities for abrasions and ulcers. Work is under way to utilize novel combinations of storage biopolymers, particularly polyhydroxybutyrate, with coral segments to fabricate a scaffold that can be used in bone repair (Laurencin et al., 1996; Madihally and Matthew, 1999; Suh and Matthew, 2000).

Marine surfaces are important planes of research and exploration for biotechnological applications. Of particular interest are the characteristics of submerged natural surfaces that resist corrosion and adhesion and the opposing characteristics of selected organisms that allow them to adhere tightly to wet, slimy surfaces. The oceans’ intrinsically nonstick, low-drag plant and animal surfaces and the adaptations of some species to adhere to wet surfaces hold incredible promise for future biomedical applications (Anderson, 1996). The most well-known example is perhaps the common blue mussel, Mytilus edulis, with its strong byssal threads, and adhesion discs which allow it to remain attached in very high energy environments, including pounding surf. However, to fully commercialize these character-