From nature to lab: Brochosomes paving the way for future materials

Many insect surfaces have nano- and microscale cuticular features that enable multifunctional properties such as water repellency, antimicrobial behavior, and anti-reflectivity. Leafhoppers (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae) produce and coat themselves with unique, extra-cuticular particles called brochosomes. These hollow nanoparticles, composed of proteins and lipids, have complex geometries that vary between species and make the cuticle both highly water repellant and anti-reflective. Inspired by this distinctive system, we’ve taken brochosomes from nature to the lab to explore their morphological variability, material and structural characteristics, and investigate the mechanics that influence their function. Our work provides valuable insight into the guided design of novel hydrophobic materials inspired by brochosomes.