In the field of bionics, scientists take biological models as a basis for developing new products. The Freiburg biologist Dr. Olga Speck and her team are investigating the wound-healing reactions of plants. They want to use their findings to develop materials that can repair themselves. The model the researchers are studying is that of the aizoaceae, a family of plants that grow in dry habitats and are especially efficient at sealing wounds. Another of the team’s goals is to make a contribution to sustainability.