aims and objectives of case study

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Example Of Case Study On Aims And Objectives

Type of paper: Case Study

Topic: Company , Business , Entrepreneurship , Market , Enterprise , Pricing , Workplace , Strategy

Words: 2500

Published: 11/11/2021

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Introduction

The AirSec Company emerged as a collective contribution of three graduate engineers who extensively researched and established this particular technology, to combine drones (popularly referred to as UAV or Unmanned Aerial Vehicles) with security systems of enhanced technology. These graduate engineers were able to attain this by use of a minute drone, properly equipped with cameras of very high definitions. The cameras could use particular night observing infra imageries and also the normal light imageries. After periods of development, present time Wi-Fi links were successfully introduced to numerous receivers such as cellular phones.

The core aim of AirSec Limited is to emerge the flag bearer in the delivery of high-quality services superseding the clients' expectations, not only in the United Kingdom but also far beyond. While doing so, the company also seeks to promote understanding with its clients and other shareholders to make sure that there is an increase in profitability in the coming financial years. The long-term vision is growing and intensifying its operations to accommodate customers who are based in regions beyond the UK after only three years to augment the company’s profitability. Within a time frame of five years, the hope is that the set decision will transform to the increase of profits by approximately 10% hence reducing the operations costs. In the successive periods, the plan will be to maintain and sustain the profitability margins and a yearly growth of 3% for a five-year era, during which the administration intends to oversee innovations that will simplify the employees training to work for the AirSec Limited in different capacities (Reniers, 2010). As per the administrators, the goal of the enterprise is to minimize the expenses related to training through the implementation of current technology will reflect a 10% cut in the budget. The investment also intends to ensure increased recycling of the 80% operation wastes within a two year period. In the course of implementing the procedures, the business will go on fostering an association with clients in the locality as an attempt to involve their contribution in the budgeting. As per the intention, the client ought to contribute approximately 2% for a five-year time frame. The Company's mission is overseeing the delivery of high-quality service in the security investment for consumers in the United Kingdom and beyond inn the coming five years. AirSec Company will employ the use of very proficient workforce to ensure the delivery of top notch services considering affordability and efficiency. In the course of undertaking company social accountabilities, the organization intends ti involve different elements of social business ideologies in developing activities capable of sustaining development in the coming years in preparing for advancements shortly.

The Pricing Strategies

Regardless of the different strategies for pricing being implemented at the AirSec Limited, they all have different advantages and even disadvantages. However, before making conclusions on the strategy that best fits the company's operations, it is recommended that different pricing strategies should be employed. The strategies employed at the enterprise include market pricing, skimming the market, price penetrations, and predatory pricing among other techniques. In selecting the penetration pricing, the enterprise security risks distorting its hard worked for reputation as the security flag bearer when it comes to the provision of high standard security services. However, the benefit of the strategy is enhancing profitability other than according the enterprise an opportunity to gain easy access to the potential market. The second advantage of this particular strategy is distinguishing the AirSec prices from the prices of its market competitors. In considering destruction pricing, the company achieves the chance to attract consumers with the cost effective prices that lure many clients. On the other hand, the enterprise faces the risk of gaining losses besides altering its status as the leader in security service provision (Reniers, 2010). For the market pricing strategy, the enterprise gains the chance to completely understand the potential market dynamics before exploiting fully the activities of the market place. The market pricing technique can also render it difficult distinguishing the standard of the function with the rest of the opponents. Realization of the main goals of the enterprise could also seem close to impossible since the firm’s decision is pegged on the competitors’ activities. Skimming marketing can dishearten clients from seeking the Company’s services. Additionally, it can incur huge costs in promoting the firm’s brand. On the other hand, the procedure simplifies product differentiation in the potential market. In several instances, it equates price to the real value that an enterprise offers its clients. The opportunities for recording improved benefits from pricing strategies are also high. In selecting discriminating pricing, the enterprise is faced with the risk of looking choosy in its different prices therefore the possibility that clients opt to look for services from the opponents. Although dual pricing can lure consumers in a short term period, it indicates uncertainty. Additionally, it renders planning impossible. Just like a price war, the strategy creates enmity amongst the competitors, hence the lack of harmony in information exchange. The technique equally lures clients; however it is not easily sustained in the long term because of a profitability reduction. Of the many approaches that the company can implement, the adaptation of market pricing is highly recommendable for the markets in the United Kingdom, however, for India, the penetration strategy of pricing is highly advisable. The enterprise owning to the fact that the method will ensure full sustainability in functioning in the United Kingdom apart from enabling the enterprise understands the market dynamics. Since the AirSec Corporation does not deal in new products, differentiation of products is enabled by market pricing, in the long term and short term. Attracting clients to buy the products offered by the venture is not as complex with the adaptation of the strategy. Moreover, enhancing a rapport with clients is integral in the pricing process. Due to the provided reason, the suitable way involves first attracting the attention of the consumers before subsequently explaining to the objective of the venture in applying a specific strategy of pricing (Sarkis, 2010).

Benchmarking

Benchmarking involves a determination of standards that the staff members have to meet to ensure high standard services are delivered differentiating the company from its opponents. In AirSec’s Limited case, there are different approaches in which the administration can utilize to guarantee the shop floor assembly staffs to offer only their best at the corporation. An example of them includes assigning a set of workers to assemble within a specified period. After targets are correctly assigned, the management should confirm the accomplishment of the assigned task if it conforms to the set standard in consideration of quality. In the course of this process, the management has to stress the necessity for cooperation in the accomplishment of the assigned responsibility. For example, out of 50 staff members, around 75% of them should completely achieve the requirements as per the benchmark. Benchmarking also established the different expectations of the employees in regards to effectiveness and coordination in the utilization of the enterprise resources (Sarkis, 2010). The set values will at the same time guide the administration in envisaging compliance with customer and budgetary needs in the course of service delivery. In instances where the staff members meet the set qualifications, the leader should explicitly define the constraints in regards to wastage to enhance consistency in operations. Taking the example of the floor employees, the management will come up with standard operation processes that will establish the appropriate personnel who meet the requirements for bonuses and other rewards aimed at enhancing commitment to responsibilities. In the process, the benchmark will facilitate the enterprise design programs that limit responsibilities that propel the accomplishments of the goals, unlike the set guidelines. Benchmarks will also ensure the enterprise is well guided in ways of addressing the floor staff needs, which are not able to fulfill their work demands. For example, employees who are unable to clean specific equipment according to the laid down standards will undergo compulsory refresher courses that will greatly improve their competencies. After evaluating an individual’s aptitude, the benchmark settled upon from comparing the internal expectations and extrinsic standards will assist in ensuring attainment of a described profitability degrees. Another importance of benchmark as a staff management tool is that it will accurately check the satisfactory level of the whole cleaning procedure. It will additionally ensure the degrees of coordination of the floor line staff in making sure of the accomplishment regarding the stipulated objectives. Finally, benchmarks will facilitate the choosing of knowledgeable personnel to work as AirSac cleaners. In return, the enterprise will face less challenge during the design of remuneration programs and work schedules.

International Trade Barriers

Public authorities or the government puts measures in place to regulate overseas investment and trade. These measures may take the form of a specific decision or legislation and may sometimes take the form of the prevailing practices in the particular markets. Due to these measures, the domestic industries enjoy a competitive advantage compared to their foreign competitors. Examples of the trade barriers are custom procedures, customs duties, quality regulations, technical regulations, and phytosanitary and veterinary measures (Moriarty, 2011). For many enterprises, exportation of the companies services and products come with many complexities, AirSec Limited is not exempted. One of the most common challenges that the limited is likely to face includes uncertainty regarding the clients' behaviors in the international regions beyond the United Kingdom. Consequently, the enterprise faces difficulties in implementing marketing strategies disliked by the consumers in the international markets. Therefore, it is not uncommon for an enterprise to record huge losses when trying to expand its scope internationally. These factors have in many instances forced enterprises to reduce their prices way below the profitability margin (Moriarty, 2011). Additionally, market penetration has proved difficult because of government policies that seem to favor some companies above others. While struggling to agree with intellectual property regulations, the enterprise will grapple with the subject of supplying long-lasting goods at flexible and affordable prices. Moreover, infrastructure and geographical inaccessibility experienced during international trade in different regions may interfere with the timely delivery of products to the clients. Another potential barrier is bureaucratic legislations that have the potential to slow down or stop the trade process. These inconveniences can greatly harm the corporation especially in instances where the AirSec limited is not informed of the newly introduced legislations in different countries. A restricted knowledge or understanding of the local market can also propel difficulties in utilizing the current workforce for increased efficiencies (Min, 2009). Other measures include limitations on access to major products, for instance, the export levies meant to artificially drive up prices or higher export prices compared to the price of similar products applied to the national processing industries. Inadequate safeguard of intellectual property rights regarding scope and legal aspects. Barriers to trade may also assume the form of discriminatory settings.

Functional Areas

Functional areas refer to groups of employees with similar expertise and experience. For instance, an organization's sales department can be referred to as a functional are since the staff in this section are all focused on sales of the company's products. The role of the sales members is to interact directly with prospective clients to enable them to determine the products that best suit the client's needs then place orders (Min, 2009). On the other hand, marketing professionals play a role of determining the products to be introduced into the market by the company. They often conduct market research surveys to understand what consumers need and like. The research helps to align the strategies of the organization, and the team is able to establish the product prices based on costs of manufacturing. Marketing directors and managers make decisions on the types of promotions and advertisements to be used by the company. Marketing departments that have advertisement managers and directors are better placed since they easily compute the budgets for various forms of advertisement and track the outcomes. The marketing department also decides on the right channels for distribution of the company's products. For instance, a company dealing in consumer goods may sell its products in merchandiser outlets and grocery stores. Accounting professionals are known to specialize in any one of the three areas: accounts payable, accounts receivable and payroll. The accounts payable specialists work on tracking payments owed by the company including the values for repairs, parts and maintenance vendors owed. Accounts receivable employees work on tracking the debts owed to the organization, for example, the clients who purchase items on credit. They also prepare invoices and send to customers to remind them that their payments are due. Payroll specialists on their part work to ensure that salaries and wages are paid on time while also distribute the tax forms to the contractors and employees for taxation purposes (Blanchard, 2010). Customer complaints and problems are handled by the customer service team. Customers experience challenges of service provision, usage product education and after sales services from time to time. For large companies, the handlings of customer service issues are done through a call center where the customer-provider interaction is through a phone. Lastly, the personnel or human resources department is given the mandate for hiring employees, training, compensation, and appraisal.The department ensures that employees’ welfare is fully catered for so that performance remains at the optimal degree (Blanchard, 2010).

The AirSec Limited located in the United Kingdom is one of the leading security drones companies. The corporation has worked and invested in achieving its goals and objectives. The company, through its competent employees, has also implemented successful market pricing strategies to suit different market dynamics. Despite the barriers to international trade that the AirSec limited has encountered, it has always strived to overcome and remain at the top.

Blanchard, D. (2010). Supply chain management best practices. Hoboken, N.J.: John Wiley & Sons. Min, H. (2009). Benchmarking of supply chain performances. Benchmarking: An International Journal, 16(5). http://dx.doi.org/10.1108/bij.2009.13116eaa.001 Moriarty, J. (2011). A theory of benchmarking. Benchmarking: An International Journal, 18(4), 588-611. http://dx.doi.org/10.1108/14635771111147650 Reniers, G. (2010). Multi-plant safety and security management in the chemical and process industries. Weinheim: Wiley-VCH. Sarkis, J. (2010). Benchmarking the greening of business. Benchmarking: An International Journal, 17(3). http://dx.doi.org/10.1108/bij.2010.13117caa.001

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A Legal Framework for Impact case study - Nippon Life

2024-08-13T11:27:00+01:00

Organisation details

Name : Nippon Life Insurance Company

Signatory type : Asset Owner

HQ country : Japan

Nippon Life Insurance Company (‘Nippon Life’) is the largest private asset owner in total assets in Japan. Nippon Life group operates life insurance and asset management businesses across the US, Europe and Asia-Pacific.

Through its governance structure, Nippon Life aims to ensure appropriate and transparent management, focusing on the long-term responsibilities owed to its policyholders. Nippon Life has implemented a structure to separate sales and investment management functions to ensure independence in investment decisions, including proxy voting.

Covered in this case study

• Portfolio-level sustainability goal: General account portfolios will be net-zero by financial year (FY) 2050. In the interim, there is to be at least a 45% reduction compared to FY2010 in total emissions and at least a 49% reduction compared to FY2020 in intensity by FY2030.
• Motivations for setting and pursuing the goal: Climate change has short-term and long-term impacts on society, the economy and investors’ portfolios. Addressing it is also aligned with beneficiaries’ values.
• Actions taken and outcomes to date: Specific targets will be set for decarbonisation, engagement with investee companies, policymakers, and ultimate beneficiaries (policyholders), and involvement in industry initiatives.
• Assess progress: Progress will be assessed through CVaR (‘ Climate Value at Risk’) , the measurement and disclosure of investee companies’ emissions, and defined milestones. 

About the Legal Framework for Impact project

How can investors pursue real-world sustainability goals in their decision-making?

In 2021, Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer published ‘A Legal Framework for Impact’, a groundbreaking legal analysis on exactly that topic.

Commissioned by the PRI, UNEP FI and the Generation Foundation, the report found that investors in all 11 jurisdictions covered by the analysis should consider the systemic risks material to their investments.

It also found that most of the 11 likely have a legal duty to pursue sustainability outcomes when those outcomes could affect financial returns.

Investing for Sustainability Impact

The key concept laid out in the report was ‘Investing for Sustainability Impact’ (IFSI). IFSI is not a legally defined expression but rather a concept which describes any activities that involve an investor intentionally attempting (through investment decisions, stewardship or engagement with policy makers) to bring about assessable behavioural changes – among investee companies, policy makers or other third parties – that are aligned with positive sustainability outcomes.

A Legal Framework for Impact identifies two approaches to IFSI:

• Instrumental : Where achieving the relevant sustainability impact goal is ‘instrumental’ in realising the investor’s financial return goals.
• Ultimate Ends : Where achieving the relevant sustainability impact goal and the associated overarching sustainability outcome is a distinct goal pursued alongside the investor’s financial return goals, but not wholly as a means to achieving them.

The PRI, UNEP FI and the Generation Foundation have together prepared a series of case studies to demonstrate IFSI in practice – particular case study is in collaboration with Nippon Life.

Overview of Nippon Life’s framework

Given the extended period of low growth that followed the collapse of the Japanese economic bubble in the late 1980s and early 1990s, Nippon Life deeply understands the importance of addressing systemic risk to preserve capital and achieving stable financial returns. Nippon Life invests in over 1,400 Japanese corporates and, as such, considers itself a universal owner in Japan. Seeking only investment alpha is not effective, given its diversified investment strategy.

Nippon Life aims to stabilise investment returns by contributing to shape sustainability outcomes through Investing for Sustainability Impact (IFSI) to mitigate systemic risk while creating a long-term flow of funds from policyholders to investee companies so that our policyholders can live a prosperous life in a sustainable society. In short, improving long-term investment returns, whilst enabling policyholders’ sustainable growth. As an institutional investor, Nippon Life believes that the first step to creating this flow is understanding the sustainability preference of beneficiaries, given the wide range of environmental and social issues.

In 2023, Nippon Life conducted its most recent policyholder survey to understand the sustainability preferences of its policyholders. Of the approximately 19,000 respondents, 65.3% expected Nippon Life to consider the achievement of SDGs through its investment as long as this results in improved long-term financial returns. Another 13.5% preferred Nippon Life to pursue the achievement of SDGs regardless of the effect on financial returns. The policyholders’ most preferred sustainability issue was to address climate change.

Nippon Life reports these results publicly, in the Meeting of Representatives (Sodaikai) and in the Nissay Konwakai Meetings, the most important governance body and policyholders dialogue meetings for a Japanese mutual company, to align its beneficiary preference to its responsible investment strategy.

Case study on Nippon Life’s actions to address climate change

Given the importance of beneficiary input and the result of the recent policyholder survey highlighting policyholders’ preferred investment area, Nippon Life has pursued actions and set goals to address climate change.

Nippon Life’s actions contain elements of instrumental IFSI, including an objective (improving investment returns through shaping sustainability outcomes), a commitment (net-zero commitment in the general account portfolios through the Net-Zero Asset Owner Alliance (NZAOA)) and targets (net-zero by 2050, with a more than or equal to 45% total emissions reduction target and a more than or equal to 49% intensity reduction target by 2030).

In the following sections, Nippon Life explains its approach in more detail.

Investment beliefs, strategies and policies

Nippon Life promotes transparency and discloses its investment beliefs, strategy, and policies regarding ESG issues and sustainability outcomes through its Responsible Investment Guidelines. Its approach is founded upon the key principles of ‘co-existence, co-prosperity and mutualism’. Its key sustainability priorities can be categorised into people, community and environment.

For this case study, Nippon Life has referred to its Sustainability Report, ESG Investment and Finance Report, sustainability priorities, sustainability management, enhancement of ESG investment and finance initiatives, and information on its involvement with the NZAOA steering group. As outlined in its document, ‘ Enhancing ESG Investment and Finance ’, its approaches to meeting its sustainability targets include:

• Strengthening ESG integration
• Promoting themed investment and finance
• Strengthening stewardship activity
• Implementing four-stage milestones in bilateral engagement with companies.

Goal setting (investment approach)

Nippon Life has set several commitments and targets, including an overarching, portfolio-level impact goal:

• Greenhouse gas emissions : Aiming for net-zero by FY2050 in general account portfolios, as well as a more than or equal to 45% reduction compared to FY2010 in total emissions and more than or equal to 49% reduction compared to FY2020 in intensity by FY2030.

This impact goal is supported by the following targets:

• Themed investment and finance targeting: Aiming for ¥5 trillion (~31.5bn USD) by FY2030 for themed investment and finance with a focus on outcomes and a sub-target of ¥3 trillion for financing real-world decarbonisation.
• Engaging high-emitting investee companies : In the near term, the top 75 GHG emitters (Scope 1+2) create and disclose a net-zero by 2050 emissions roadmap and the top 41 Scope 3 emitters disclose strategies to reduce emissions.

In support of the impact goal, Nippon Life also integrates ESG issues as follows:

• ESG investment for sustainable returns: Aiming to secure stable investment returns by helping companies address environmental and social issues to support reliable payment of insurance claims and policyholder dividends. Nippon Life ensures that the combined market value of investments with higher ESG ratings exceeds a set percentage of the overall portfolio.

Actions taken (investment process):  Nippon Life has undertaken a range of actions to meet its impact goal of net-zero and interim emissions reductions, including:

• Engaged policyholders to understand the sustainability preference of its beneficiaries.
• Participated as a Steering Group member in the NZAOA to encourage public and private sector decarbonisation.
• Engaged with approximately 70 high-emitting companies, equating to roughly 80% of emissions of investee companies. Nippon Life also implemented the four-stage milestone system to measure the progress of bilateral engagement activity.
• Invested in the Nissay Capital Sustainability Solutions Fund No. 1, which aims to promote innovation in relation to SDG themes such as decarbonisation.
• Implemented negative screening and has since expanded its criteria to exclude investments in certain sectors or companies where engagement is not an effective solution and exclusion is the sole option. This includes specific prohibitions against new investments in fossil fuel-related projects which do not align with the 1.5-degree pathway.

In alignment with an ESG integration approach, Nippon Life has:

• Integrated ESG factors, including climate-related considerations, across all asset classes by assigning proprietary ESG ratings to major securities assets and increasing those with higher ESG scores to influence investment decisions towards more sustainable options.

Actions in support of both impact goal and ESG integration approach:

• Joined the Partnership for Carbon Accounting Financials (PCAF) in 2021 and Climate Action 100+ (CA100+) in 2022 to support the standardisation of emissions reporting and facilitate investee company dialogue.
• Contributed to the development of a report issued by the Life Insurance Association of Japan that advocated for collaborative efforts across various ministries to promote the disclosure of companies’ ESG data, investment and financing, as well as policy support for carbon neutrality.

The actions support the goals, commitments and targets focusing on real-world decarbonisation.

Evaluation, reporting and goal revision (where applicable): investment outcomes

Nippon Life has undertaken a range of actions to evaluate and report on its goals and commitments. In relation to its impact goal, these actions include:

• Publicly sharing updates on policy engagement and advocacy efforts related to climate change and environmental sustainability.
• Measuring and disclosing the emissions of identified high-emitting investee companies, tracking progress towards emission reduction goals.
• Tracking the amount of greenhouse gas emissions reduced through financed projects and the impact on essential services like water supply through environmental projects.
• Employing a structured approach to manage changes in corporate conduct related to key environmental themes, including climate change, through defined milestones in the engagement process and continuing the engagement into the medium and long term.
• Undertaken ongoing assessments of the investment portfolio to ensure alignment with climate change goals, ESG criteria and negative screening policies. To achieve this, Nippon Life ensures that the combined market value of its investments with ESG ratings of 1 and 2 exceeds a set percentage of the overall portfolio.
• Conducted quantitative analysis of climate change risks, using tools like the CVaR to measure policy risks, technology opportunities, and physical risks under multiple climate scenarios for various assets, to inform investment decision-making.
• Published an annual TCFD/TNFD report and an annual ESG Investment and Finance Report, including regular progress updates.

Key takeaways

Nippon Life’s portfolio-level goal is for its general account portfolios to be net-zero by FY2050, and they believe this goal remains achievable through the actions detailed in this case study, alongside the tracking and reporting methods outlined.

Nippon Life believes maximising influence to achieve real-world decarbonisation objectives to mitigate the systemic risk of climate change is aligned with Nippon Life’s long-term business strategy. In this way, Nippon Life’s actions to address climate change represent elements of instrumental IFSI, meaning its decarbonisation objectives are relevant to meeting its long-term financial return goals to an extent.

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The Effect of Human Resources Development on Organizational Growth is important so that organizations can achieve its goals and  objectives. As a result, the concept of human resource development has emerged as a strategy to improve the competence of the  employees and for enhancement of organizational effectiveness. Specifically, four specific objectives and research questions guided the  study. The study adopted the survey method research design. The target population consisted of eight hundred and twenty two (822)  employees of Fidelity Bank Plc from different branches in Abuja. The study had a sample frame of five (5) respondents per each branch of the 12 branches. The study used self-development structure questionnaire as the instrument for data collection. The data collected were  analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics techniques (Spearman’s rank order correlation method and multiple regressions), this  was carried to find out if there is a relationship between human resources development and organizational growth of Fidelity Bank  Plc. The multiple regression analysis was used to find out the effects of the independent variables. Human resources development  (training and development, performance appraisal, team work and communication) on the dependent variable-organizational growth. It  is on the basis of the findings that the researcher recommended appropriately. 

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• Published: 10 August 2024

Mapping biomimicry research to sustainable development goals

• Raghu Raman 1 ,
• Aswathy Sreenivasan 2 ,
• M. Suresh 2 &
• Prema Nedungadi 3  

Scientific Reports volume  14 , Article number:  18613 ( 2024 ) Cite this article

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• Environmental sciences
• Environmental social sciences

This study systematically evaluates biomimicry research within the context of sustainable development goals (SDGs) to discern the interdisciplinary interplay between biomimicry and SDGs. The alignment of biomimicry with key SDGs showcases its interdisciplinary nature and potential to offer solutions across the health, sustainability, and energy sectors. This study identified two primary thematic clusters. The first thematic cluster focused on health, partnership, and life on land (SDGs 3, 17, and 15), highlighting biomimicry's role in healthcare innovations, sustainable collaboration, and land management. This cluster demonstrates the potential of biomimicry to contribute to medical technologies, emphasizing the need for cross-sectoral partnerships and ecosystem preservation. The second thematic cluster revolves around clean water, energy, infrastructure, and marine life (SDGs 6, 7, 9, and 14), showcasing nature-inspired solutions for sustainable development challenges, including energy generation and water purification. The prominence of SDG 7 within this cluster indicates that biomimicry significantly contributes to sustainable energy practices. The analysis of thematic clusters further revealed the broad applicability of biomimicry and its role in enhancing sustainable energy access and promoting ecosystem conservation. Emerging research topics, such as metaheuristics, nanogenerators, exosomes, and bioprinting, indicate a dynamic field poised for significant advancements. By mapping the connections between biomimicry and SDGs, this study provides a comprehensive overview of the field's trajectory, emphasizing its importance in advancing global sustainability efforts.

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Introduction.

Biomimicry, which combines 'bio' (life) and 'mimicry' (imitation), uses nature's patterns to solve human problems, aligning with the SDGs by fostering innovations 1 . This discipline studies natural processes to inspire sustainable designs and promote responsible consumption and production 2 . Biomimicry emphasizes sustainability, ideation, and education in reconnecting with nature to achieve the SDGs 3 . Collaboration among designers, technologists, and business experts is vital for translating natural mechanisms into commercial solutions 4 . Biomimetics, which aims for radical innovations by replicating living systems, strives for breakthroughs in economic growth 5 . By promoting systemic change through the emulation of nature's regenerative processes, biomimicry's alignment with the SDGs could enhance sustainability efforts. Merging biomimicry insights with SDGs could exceed sustainability benchmarks.

Integrating biomimicry with sustainable development goals (SDGs) is crucial for addressing global challenges. The SDGs offer a blueprint for global well-being and environmental stewardship by 2030 6 . They aim to protect the environment and foster social and economic development. Biomimicry provides innovative approaches to these objectives, drawing from natural strategies. While SDGs offer clear targets, biomimicry complements these by providing a unique lens for solutions 7 . The investigation of biomimicry in conjunction with the SDGs is based on the understanding that the development of biologically inspired materials, structures, and systems offers a novel and sustainable solution to design problems, particularly in the built environment 8 . By mimicking nature's answers to complicated challenges, biomimicry produces creative, clever, long-lasting, and environmentally responsible ideas.

The SDGs outline a comprehensive sustainability agenda targeting social equity, environmental conservation, and poverty alleviation 9 . The use of biomimicry in research can lead to the development of solutions that mimic natural efficiency 10 , revolutionizing industries with resource-efficient technologies and enhancing sustainability. This synergy could lead to environmentally friendly products, improved energy solutions, and effective waste management systems. Integrating biomimicry into industry and education promotes environmental stewardship and ecological appreciation 11 . Marrying biomimicry research with SDGs has accelerated progress toward sustainable development.

Biomimicry can provide insightful and useful solutions consistent with sustainability ideals by imitating the adaptability and efficiency observed in biological systems 12 . The built environment's use of biomimicry has a greater sustainable impact when circular design features are included 13 . Reusing materials, cutting waste, and designing systems that work with natural cycles are all stressed in a circular design. Combining biomimicry and circular design promotes social inclusion, environmental resilience, resourcefulness, and compassionate governance, all of which lead to peaceful coexistence with the environment. This all-encompassing strategy demonstrates a dedication to tackling the larger social and environmental concerns that the SDGs represent and design challenges 14 . Complementing these studies, Wamane 7 examined the intersection of biomimicry, the environmental, social, and governance (ESG) framework, and circular economy principles, advocating for an economic paradigm shift toward sustainability.

A key aspect of realizing the impact of biomimicry on SDGs is the successful translation and commercialization of biomimicry discoveries. This involves overcoming barriers such as skill gaps, the engineering mindset, commercial acumen, and funding. Insights from the "The State of Nature-Inspired-Innovation in the UK" report provide a comprehensive analysis of these challenges and potential strategies to address them, underscoring the importance of integrating commercial perspectives into biomimicry research.

This research employs bibliometric techniques to assess the integration and coherence within circular economy policy-making, emphasizing the potential for a synergistic relationship between environmental stewardship, economic growth, and social equity to foster a sustainable future.

In addressing the notable gap in comprehensive research concerning the contribution of biomimicry solutions to specific SDGs, this study offers significant insights into the interdisciplinary applications of biomimicry and its potential to advance global sustainability efforts. Our investigation aims to bridge this research gap through a systematic analysis, resulting in the formulation of the following research questions:

RQ1: How does an interdisciplinary analysis of biomimicry research align with and contribute to advancing specific SDGs?

RQ2: What emerging topics within biomimicry research are gaining prominence, and how do they relate to the SDGs?

RQ3 : What are the barriers to the translation and commercialization of biomimicry innovations, and how can these barriers be overcome to enhance their impact on SDGs?

RQ4: Based on the identified gaps in research and the potential for interdisciplinary collaboration, what innovative areas within biomimicry can be further explored to address underrepresented SDGs?

The remainder of this paper is arranged as follows. Section " Literature review " focuses on the literature background of biomimicry, followed by methods (section " Methods ") and results and discussion, including emerging research topics (section " Results and discussion "). Section " Conclusion " concludes with recommendations and limitations.

Literature review

The potential of biomimicry solutions for sustainability has long been recognized, yet there is a notable lack of comprehensive studies that explore how biomimicry can address specific sustainable development goals (SDGs) (Table 1 ). This research aims to fill this gap by investigating relevant themes and building upon the literature in this field.

Biomimicry, with its roots tracing back to approximately 500 BC, began with Greek philosophers who developed classical concepts of beauty and drew inspiration from natural organisms for balanced design 15 . This foundational idea of looking to nature for design principles continued through history, as exemplified by Leonardo Da Vinci's creation of a flying machine inspired by birds in 1482. This early instance of biomimicry influenced subsequent advancements, including the Wright brothers' development of the airplane in 1948 12 , 15 . The term "bionics," coined in 1958 to describe "the science of natural systems or their analogs," evolved into "biomimicry" by 1982. Janine Benyus's 1997 book, “Biomimicry: Innovation Inspired by Nature,” and the founding of the Biomimicry Institute (Biomimicry 16 ) were pivotal, positioning nature as a guide and model for sustainable design. Benyus’s work underscores the potential of biomimicry in tackling contemporary environmental challenges such as climate change and ecosystem degradation 12 , 17 .

In recent years, the call for more targeted research in biomimicry has grown, particularly in terms of architecture and energy use. Meena et al. 18 and Varshabi et al. 19 highlighted the need for biomimicry to address energy efficiency in building design, stressing the potential of nature-inspired solutions to reduce energy consumption and enhance sustainability. This perspective aligns with that of Perricone et al. 20 , who explored the differences between artificial and natural systems, noting that biomimetic designs, which mimic the principles of organism construction, can significantly improve resource utilization and ecosystem restoration. Aggarwal and Verma 21 contributed to this discourse by mapping the evolution and applications of biomimicry through scientometric analysis, revealing the growing significance of nature-inspired optimization methodologies, especially in clustering techniques. Their work suggested that these methodologies not only provide innovative solutions but also reflect a deeper integration of biomimetic principles in technological advancements. Building on this, Pinzón and Austin 22 emphasized the infancy of biomimicry in the context of renewable energy, advocating for more research to explore how nature can inspire new energy solutions. Their work connects with that of Carniel et al. 23 , who introduced a natural language processing (NLP) technique to identify research themes in biomimicry across disciplines, facilitating a holistic understanding of current trends and future directions.

To further illustrate the practical applications of biomimicry, Nasser et al. 24 presented the Harmony Search Algorithm (HSA), a nature-inspired optimization technique. Their bibliometric analysis demonstrated the algorithm's effectiveness in reducing energy and resource consumption, highlighting the practical benefits of biomimicry in technological innovation. Rusu et al. 25 expanded on these themes by documenting significant advancements in soft robotics, showing how biomimicry influences design principles and applications in this rapidly evolving field. Their findings underscore the diverse applications of biomimetic principles, from robotics to building design. Shashwat et al. 26 emphasized the role of bioinspired solutions in enhancing energy efficiency within the built environment, promoting the use of high solar reflectance surfaces that mimic natural materials. This perspective is in line with that of Pires et al. 27 , who evaluated the application of biomimicry in dental restorative materials and identified a need for more clinical studies to realize the full potential of biomimetic innovations in healthcare. Liu et al. 28 explored the application of nature-inspired design principles in software-defined networks, demonstrating how biomimetic algorithms can optimize resource and energy utilization in complex systems. This study builds on the broader narrative of biomimicry's potential to transform various sectors by offering efficient, sustainable solutions. Finally, Hinkelman et al. 29 synthesized these insights by discussing the transdisciplinary applications of ecosystem biomimicry, which supports sustainable development goals by integrating biomimetic principles across engineering and environmental disciplines. This comprehensive approach underscores the transformative potential of biomimicry, suggesting that continued interdisciplinary research and innovation are crucial for addressing global sustainability challenges effectively.

PRISMA framework

This study utilizes the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) framework to structure its analysis, following the established five-step protocol: formulating research questions, defining a search strategy, executing a literature search, screening identified literature, and analyzing the findings (Page et al., 2021). The application of the PRISMA guidelines across various research domains, including the SDGs, is well documented 30 .

To ensure a comprehensive search, we searched the Scopus database, a widely utilized resource for bibliometric studies 31 (Donthu et al. 82 ), which led to the discovery of 46,141 publications from 2013 to 2023. This period marked significant research activity following the introduction of the SDGs at the Rio + 20 summit in 2012. Publications were identified using the following terms in the title and abstract: “ (biomimic* OR biomimetic* OR bioinspired OR bioinsp* OR bionic* OR nature-inspired OR "biologically inspired" OR bioinspiration OR biomimesis OR biognosis).”

During the screening phase, publications lacking complete author details were reviewed, narrowing the field to 46,083 publications for further analysis. The eligibility phase utilized proprietary algorithms to map publications to the 17 SDGs, informed by initiatives such as the University of Auckland (Auckland’s SDG mapping 32 ) and Elsevier's SDG Mapping Initiatives (Elsevier's SDG Mapping 33 ). The selection of the Elsevier SDG Mapping Initiative for this study was based on its seamless integration with Scopus, facilitating the use of predefined search queries for each SDG and employing a machine learning model that has been refined through expert review. This approach has been utilized in various studies to analyze research trends within emerging fields. For example, the exploration of green hydrogen was detailed by Raman et al. 34 , while investigations into Fake News and the Dark Web were conducted by Raman et al. 35 , 36 , 37 and Rama et al. 38 , respectively. These examples demonstrate the efficacy of SDG mapping in elucidating how research outputs align with and contribute to sustainable development goals in these emerging domains. This phase identified 13,287 publications as mapped to SDGs. In the inclusion phase, stringent criteria further filtered the publications to English-language journals and review articles, culminating in 13,271 publications deemed suitable for in-depth analysis. This process ensures a comprehensive and high-quality dataset for the study, reflecting the robust and systematic approach afforded by the PRISMA framework in evaluating literature relevant to SDGs.

Our keyword search strategy, while comprehensive, may capture papers that do not genuinely contribute to the field. To mitigate this, we employed manual verification. After the automated search, the authors conducted a manual review of a subset of the final set of identified papers to assess their relevance and authenticity in the context of biomimicry. The subset was based on 20 highly cited papers from each year. We believe that papers that are frequently cited within the community are more likely to be accurately classified. The authors mainly reviewed the introduction, methodology, and results sections to confirm the relevance and authenticity of the papers. However, we acknowledge that these steps may not fully eliminate the inclusion of irrelevant papers, which could skew the results of our meta-analysis.

SDG framework

The examination of sustainable development goals (SDGs) reveals their interconnected nature, where the achievement of one goal often supports progress in others. Studies by Le Blanc (2015) and Allison et al. (2016) have mapped out the complex web of relationships among the SDGs, identifying both strong and subtle linkages across different objectives. To visualize these connections, we employed a cocitation mapping approach using VOSviewer 39 , which allows us to depict the semantic relationships between SDGs through their cocitation rates in scholarly works. This approach generates a visual map where each SDG is represented as a node, with the node size reflecting the goal's research prominence and the thickness of the lines between nodes indicating the frequency of cocitations among the goals. This visual representation reveals the SDGs as an intricate but unified framework, emphasizing the collaborative nature of global sustainability initiatives.

Topic prominence percentile

The Scopus prominence percentile is a crucial metric indicating the visibility and impact of emerging research topics within the scientific community. High-ranking topics in this percentile are rapidly gaining attention, highlighting emerging trends and areas poised for significant advancements. This tool enables researchers and policymakers to identify and focus on innovative topics, ensuring that their efforts align with the forefront of scientific development 35 , 36 , 37 . Topics above the 99.9th percentile were used in this study.

Results and discussion

Rq1: sdg framework and interdisciplinary research (rq4).

This study evaluates biomimicry research through the framework of SDGs. A cocitation SDG map shows two clusters and provides insights into the interplay between biomimicry themes and SDGs, highlighting the cross-disciplinary nature of this research (Fig.  1 ). The blue box hidden behind the “3 – Good Health and Well-being” and “7 – Affordable and Clean Energy” is “11 – Sustainable cities and Communities”. The blue box hidden behind “15 – Life on Land” is “16 – Peace, Justice and Strong institutions”.

Interdisciplinary SDG network of biomimicry research.

Cluster 1 (Red): Biomimetic innovations for health, partnership, and life on land

This cluster comprises a diverse array of research articles that explore the application of biomimicry across various SDGs 3 (health), 17 (partnership), and 15 (land). The papers in this cluster delve into innovative biomimetic ideas, each contributing uniquely to the intersection of sustainable development and biological inspiration. SDG 3, emphasizing good health and well-being for all, is significantly represented, indicating a global effort to leverage biomimicry for advancements in healthcare, such as new medication delivery systems and medical technologies. Similarly, the frequent citations of SDG 17 underscore the vital role of partnerships in achieving sustainable growth, especially where bioinspired solutions require interdisciplinary collaboration to address complex challenges. Finally, the prominence of 15 SDG citations reflects a commitment to preserving terrestrial ecosystems, where biomimicry is increasingly applied in land management, demonstrating nature's adaptability and resilience as a model for sustainable practices. Table 2 lists the top 5 relevant papers from Cluster 1, further illustrating the multifaceted application of biomimicry in addressing these SDGs.

A unique binary variant of the gray wolf optimization (GWO) technique, designed especially for feature selection in classification tasks, was presented by Emary et al. 40 . GWO is a method inspired by the social hierarchy and hunting behavior of gray wolves to find the best solutions to complex problems. This bioinspired optimization technique was used to optimize SDG15, which also highlights its ecological benefits. The results of the study highlight the effectiveness of binary gray wolf optimization in identifying the feature space for ideal pairings and promoting environmental sustainability and biodiversity. Lin et al. 41 focused on SDG 3 by examining catalytically active nanomaterials as potential candidates for artificial enzymes. While acknowledging the limits of naturally occurring enzymes, this study explores how nanobiotechnology can address problems in the food, pharmaceutical, and agrochemical sectors.

The investigation of enzymatic nanomaterials aligns with health-related objectives, highlighting the potential for major improvements in human health. Parodi et al. 42 used biomimetic leukocyte membranes to functionalize synthetic nanoparticles, extending biomimicry into the biomedical domain. To meet SDG 3, this research presents "leukolike vectors," which are nanoporous silicon particles that can communicate with cells, evade the immune system, and deliver specific payloads. In line with the SDGs about health, this study emphasizes the possible uses of biomimetic structures in cancer detection and treatments. A novel strategy for biological photothermal nanodot-based anticancer therapy utilizing peptide‒porphyrin conjugate self-assembly was presented by Zou et al. 43 . For therapeutic reasons, efficient light-to-heat conversion can be achieved by imitating the structure of biological structures. By providing a unique biomimetic approach to cancer treatment and demonstrating the potential of self-assembling biomaterials in biomedical applications, this research advances SDG 3. Finally, Wang et al. 44 presented Monarch butterfly optimization (MBO), which is a bioinspired algorithm that mimics the migration patterns of monarch butterflies to solve optimization problems effectively. This method presents a novel approach to optimization, mimicking the migration of monarch butterflies, aligning with SDG 9. Comparative analyses highlight MBO's exceptional performance and demonstrate its capacity to address intricate issues about business and innovation, supporting objectives for long-term collaboration and sector expansion.

The publications in Cluster 1 show a wide range of biomimetic developments, from ecological optimization to new optimization techniques and biomedical applications. These varied contributions highlight how biomimicry can advance sustainable development in health, symbiosis, and terrestrial life.

Cluster 2 (green): Nature-inspired solutions for clean water, energy, and infrastructure

Cluster 2, which focuses on the innovative application of biomimicry in sustainable development, represents a range of research that aligns with SDGs 6 (sanitation), 7 (energy), 9 (infrastructure), and 14 (water). This cluster is characterized by studies that draw inspiration from natural processes and structures to offer creative solutions to sustainability-related challenges. The papers in this cluster, detailed in Table 3 , demonstrate how biomimicry can address key global concerns in a varied and compelling manner.

Within this cluster, the high citation counts for SDG 7 underscore the significance of accessible clean energy, a domain where biomimicry contributes innovative energy generation and storage solutions inspired by natural processes. This aligns with the growing emphasis on sustainable energy practices. The prominence of SDG 9 citations further highlights the global focus on innovation and sustainable industry, where biomimicry's role in developing nature-inspired designs is crucial for building robust systems and resilient infrastructure. Furthermore, the substantial citations for SDG 6 reflect a dedicated effort toward ensuring access to clean water and sanitation for all. In this regard, biomimicry principles are being applied in water purification technologies, illustrating how sustainable solutions modeled after natural processes can effectively meet clean water objectives.

The study by Sydney Gladman et al. (2016), which presented the idea of shape-morphing systems inspired by nastic plant motions, is one notable addition to this cluster. This discovery creates new opportunities for tissue engineering, autonomous robotics, and smart textile applications by encoding composite hydrogel designs that exhibit anisotropic swelling behavior. The emphasis of SDG 9 on promoting industry, innovation, and infrastructure aligns with this biomimetic strategy. SDGs 7 and 13 are addressed in the study of Li et al. 45 , which is about engineering heterogeneous semiconductors for solar water splitting. This work contributes to the goals of inexpensive, clean energy and climate action by investigating methods such as band structure engineering and bionic engineering to increase the efficiency of solar water splitting. Li et al. 46 conducted a thorough study highlighting the importance of catalysts for the selective photoreduction of CO2 into solar fuels. This review offers valuable insights into the use of semiconductor catalysts for selective photocatalytic CO2 reduction. Our work advances sustainable energy solutions by investigating biomimetic, metal-based, and metal-free cocatalysts and contributes to SDGs 7 and 13. Wang et al. 47 address the critical problem of water pollution. Creating materials with superlyophilic and superlyophobic qualities offers a creative method for effectively separating water and oil. This contributes to the goals of clean water, industry, innovation, and life below the water. It also correlates with SDGs 6, 9, and 14. Singh et al. 48 also explored the 'green' synthesis of metals and their oxide nanoparticles for environmental remediation, which furthers SDG 9. This review demonstrates the environmentally benign and sustainable features of green synthesis and its potential to lessen the environmental impact of conventional synthesis methods.

Cluster 2 provides nature-inspired solutions for clean water, renewable energy, and sustainable infrastructure, demonstrating the scope and importance of biomimicry. The varied applications discussed in these papers help overcome difficult problems and advance sustainable development in line with several SDGs.

RQ2: Emerging research topics

Temporal evolution of emerging topics.

Figure  2 displays the publication counts for various emerging topics from 2013 to 2022, indicating growth trends over the years. For 'Metaheuristics', there is a notable increase in publications peaking in approximately 2020, suggesting a surge in interest. 'Strain sensor' research steadily increased, reaching its highest publication frequency toward the end of the period, which is indicative of growing relevance in the field. 'Bioprinting' sharply increased over the next decade, subsequently maintaining high interest, which highlights its sustained innovation. In contrast, 'Actuators' showed fluctuating publication counts, with a recent upward trend. 'Cancer' research, while historically a major topic, displayed a spike in publications in approximately 2018, possibly reflecting a breakthrough or increased research funding. 'Myeloperoxidase' has a smaller presence in the literature, with a modest peak in 2019. The number of 'Water '-related publications remains relatively low but shows a slight increase, suggesting a gradual but increasing recognition of its importance. Research on exosomes has significantly advanced, particularly since 2018, signifying a greater area of focus. 'Mechanical' topic publications have moderate fluctuations without a clear trend, indicating steady research interest. 'Micromotors' experienced an initial publication surge, followed by a decline and then a recent resurgence, possibly due to new technological applications. 'Nanogenerators' have shown a dramatic increase in interest, particularly in recent years, while 'Hydrogel' publications have varied, with a recent decline, which may point toward a shift in research focus or maturity of the topic.

Evolution of emerging topics according to publications (y-axis denotes the number of publications; x-axis denotes the year of publication).

Figure  3 presents the distribution of various research topics based on their prominence percentile and total number of publications. Topics above the 99.9th percentile and to the right of the vertical threshold line represent the most emergent and prolific topics of study. Next, we examine the topics within each of the four quadrants, focusing on how each topic has developed over the years in relation to SDGs and the key phrases associated with each topic.

Distribution of research topics based on prominence percentile and total number of publications.

Next, we examine each research topic in four quadrants, assessing their evolution concerning SDGs. We also analyze the keyphrase cloud to identify which keyphrases are most relevant (indicated by their font size) and whether they are growing or not. In the key phrase cloud, green indicates an increasing relevance of the key phrase, grey signifies that its relevance remains constant, and blue represents a declining relevance of the key phrase.

Niche biomimetic applications

These are topics with a lower number of publications and prominence percentiles, indicating specialized or emerging areas of research that are not yet widely recognized or pursued (Quadrant 1—bottom left).

Myeloperoxidase; colorimetric; chromogenic compounds

The inclusion of myeloperoxidase indicates that inflammation and the immune system are the main research topics. The focus on chromogenic and colorimetric molecules suggests a relationship to analytical techniques for identifying biological materials. The evolution of the research is depicted in Fig.  4 a shows an evolving emphasis on various sustainable development goals (SDGs) over time. The research trajectory, initially rooted in SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), has progressively branched out to encompass SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy) and SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), reflecting an expanding scope of inquiry within the forestry sciences. More recently, the focus has transitioned toward SDG 15 (Life on Land), indicating an increased recognition of the interconnectedness between forest ecosystems and broader environmental and sustainability goals. This trend underscores the growing complexity and multidisciplinary nature of forestry research, highlighting the need to address comprehensive ecological concerns along with human well-being and sustainable development.

Evolution of research ( a ) and key phrases ( b ).

The word cloud in Fig.  4 b highlights key phrases such as 'Biocompatible', 'Actuator', and 'Self-healing Hydrogel', reflecting a focus on advanced materials, while terms such as 'Elastic Modulus' and 'Polymeric Networks' suggest an emphasis on the structural properties essential for creating innovative diagnostic and environmental sensing tools. Such developments are pertinent to health monitoring and water purification, resonating with SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) and SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation). The prominence of 'Self-healing' and 'Bioinspired' indicates a shift toward materials that emulate natural processes for durability and longevity, supporting sustainable industry practices aligned with SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure) and SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), contributing to the overarching aim of sustainable development.

Next, we analyzed the top 3 cited publications. Catalytically active nanomaterials, or nanozymes, are exciting candidates for artificial enzymes, according to Lin et al. 41 . The authors explore the structural features and biomimetics applications of these enzymes, classifying them as metal-, carbon-, and metal oxide-based nanomaterials. This study emphasizes the benefits of enzymes over natural enzymes, including their high stability, variable catalytic activity, and controlled production. Wang et al. 49 developed biomimetic nanoflowers made from nanozymes to cause intracellular oxidative damage in hypoxic malignancies. Under both normoxic and hypoxic conditions, the nanoflowers demonstrated catalytic efficiency. By overcoming the constraints of existing systems that depend on oxygen availability or external stimuli, this novel technique represents a viable treatment option for malignant neoplasms. Gao et al. 50 investigated the use of a dual inorganic nanozyme-catalyzed cascade reaction as a biomimetic approach for nanocatalytic tumor therapy. This approach produces a high level of therapeutic efficacy by cascading catalytic events inside the tumor microenvironment. This study highlights the potential of inorganic nanozymes for achieving high therapeutic efficacy and outstanding biosafety, which adds to the growing interest in nanocatalytic tumor therapy.

Water; hydrophobicity; aerogels

With an emphasis on hydrophobicity, aerogel use, and water-related features, this topic relates to materials science and indicates interest in cutting-edge materials with unique qualities. From Fig.  5 a, we can see that, initially, the focus was directed toward SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), which is intrinsically related to the research theme, as biomimetic approaches are leveraged to develop innovative water purification and management solutions. As the research progressed, the scope expanded to intersect with SDG 14 (Life Below Water) and SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), signifying a broadened impact of biomimetic innovations in marine ecosystem conservation and energy-efficient materials. The gradual involvement with SDG 9 (industry, innovation, and infrastructure) and SDG 13 (climate action) indicates the interdisciplinary reach of this research, which aims to influence industrial practices and climate change mitigation strategies.

The word cloud in Fig.  5 b reinforces this narrative by showcasing key phrases such as 'Hydrophobic', 'Bioinspired', 'Emulsion', and 'Oil Pollution', which reflect the emphasis on developing materials and technologies that mimic natural water repellency and separation processes. 'Aerogel' and 'polydopamine', along with 'Underwater' and 'Biomimetic Cleaning', suggest a strong focus on creating lightweight, efficient materials capable of self-cleaning and oil spill remediation. These keywords encapsulate the essence of the research theme, demonstrating a clear alignment with the targeted SDGs and the overall aim of sustainable development through biomimicry.

Three highly referenced works that have made substantial contributions to the field of biomimetic materials for oil/water separation are included in the table. The development of superlyophilic and superlyophobic materials for effective oil/water separation was examined by Wang et al. 47 . This review highlights the applications of these materials in separating different oil-and-water combinations by classifying them according to their surface wettability qualities. The excellent efficiency, selectivity, and recyclability of the materials—which present a viable treatment option for industrial oily wastewater and oil spills—are highlighted in the paper. Su et al. 51 explored the evolution of super wettability systems. The studies included superhydrophobicity, superoleophobicity, and undersea counterparts, among other extreme wettabilities. The kinetics, material structures, and wetting conditions related to obtaining superwettability are covered in the article. This demonstrates the wide range of uses for these materials in chemistry and materials science, including self-cleaning fabrics and systems for separating oil and water. Zhang et al. 52 presented a bioinspired multifunctional foam with self-cleaning and oil/water separation capabilities. To construct a polyurethane foam with superhydrophobicity and superoleophobicity, this study used porous biomaterials and superhydrophobic self-cleaning lotus leaves. Foam works well for separating oil from water because of its slight weight and ability to float on water. It also shows exceptional resistance to corrosive liquids. According to the article, multifunctional foams for large-scale oil spill cleaning might be designed using a low-cost fabrication technology that could be widely adopted.

Growing interest in bioinspired healthcare

These topics have a higher prominence percentile but a lower number of publications, suggesting growing interest and importance in the field despite a smaller body of research (Quadrant 2—top left).

Exosomes; extracellular vesicles; MicroRNAs

Exosomes and extracellular vesicles are essential for intercellular communication, and reference to microRNAs implies a focus on genetic regulation. The evolution of this topic reflects an increasing alignment with specific sustainable development goals (SDGs) over the years. The initial research focused on SDG 3 (good health and well-being) has expanded to encompass SDG 9 (industry, innovation, and infrastructure) and SDG 6 (clean water and sanitation), showcasing the multifaceted impact of biomimetic research in healthcare (Fig.  6 a). The research trajectory into SDG 9 and SDG 6 suggests broader application of bioinspired technologies beyond healthcare, potentially influencing sustainable industrial processes and water treatment technologies, respectively.

The word cloud (Fig.  6 b) underscores the central role of 'Extracellular Vesicles' and 'Exosomes' as platforms for 'Targeted Drug Delivery' and 'Nanocarrier' systems, which are key innovations in medical biotechnology. The prominence of terms such as 'Bioinspired', 'Biomimetic', 'Liposome', and 'Gold Nanoparticle' illustrates the inspiration drawn from biological systems for developing advanced materials and delivery mechanisms. These key phrases indicate significant advancements in 'Controlled Drug Delivery Systems', 'Cancer Chemotherapy', and 'Molecular Imaging', which have contributed to improved diagnostics and treatment options, consistent with the objectives of SDG 3.

The work by Jang et al. 53 , which introduced bioinspired exosome-mimetic nanovesicles for improved drug delivery to tumor tissues, is one of the most cited articles. These nanovesicles, which resemble exosomes but have higher creation yields, target cells and slow the growth of tumors in a promising way. Yong et al.'s 54 work presented an effective drug carrier for targeted cancer chemotherapy, focusing on biocompatible tumor cell-exocytosed exosome-biomimetic porous silicon nanoparticles. A paper by Cheng et al. 55 discussed the difficulties in delivering proteins intracellularly. This study suggested a biomimetic nanoparticle platform that uses extracellular vesicle membranes and metal–organic frameworks. These highly cited studies highlight the importance of biomimetic techniques in improving drug delivery systems for improved therapeutic interventions.

Nanogenerators; piezoelectric; energy harvesting

This topic advises concentrating on technology for energy harvesting, especially for those that use piezoelectric materials and nanogenerators. We see a rising focus on medical applications of biomimetics, from diagnostics to energy harvesting mimicking biological systems.

The evolution of this research topic reflects a broader contribution to the SDGs by not only addressing healthcare needs but also by promoting sustainable energy practices and supporting resilient infrastructure through biomimetic innovation (Fig.  7 a). Initially, the emphasis on SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) suggested the early application of biomimetic principles in healthcare, particularly in medical devices and diagnostics leveraging piezoelectric effects. Over time, the transition toward SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy) and SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure) indicates an expansion of bioinspired technologies into sustainable energy solutions and industrial applications. Nanogenerators and energy harvesting techniques draw inspiration from biological processes and structures, aiming to optimize energy efficiency and contribute to clean energy initiatives.

The word cloud in Fig.  7 b emphasizes key phrases such as 'Piezoelectric', 'Energy Harvesting', 'Tactile Sensor', 'Triboelectricity', and 'Nanogenerators', highlighting the core technologies that are being developed. These terms, along with 'Bioinspired', 'Wearable Electronic Devices', and 'Energy Conversion Efficiency', illustrate the convergence of natural principles with advanced material science to create innovative solutions for energy generation and sensor technology.

Yang et al.'s 56 study in Advanced Materials presented the first triboelectrification-based bionic membrane sensor. Wearable medical monitoring and biometric authentication systems will find new uses for this sensor since it allows self-powered physiological and behavioral measurements, such as noninvasive human health evaluation, anti-interference throat voice recording, and multimodal biometric authentication. A thorough analysis of the state-of-the-art in piezoelectric energy harvesting was presented by Sezer and Koç 57 . This article addresses the fundamentals, components, and uses of piezoelectric generators, highlighting their development, drawbacks, and prospects. It also predicts a time when piezoelectric technology will power many electronics. The 2021 paper by Zhao et al. 58 examines the use of cellulose-based materials in flexible electronics. This section describes the benefits of these materials and the latest developments in intelligent electronic device creation, including biomimetic electronic skins, optoelectronics, sensors, and optoelectronic devices. This review sheds light on the possible drawbacks and opportunities for wearable technology and bioelectronic systems based on cellulose.

Leading edge of biomimetic sensing and electronics

This quadrant represents topics with both a high number of publications and a prominence percentile, indicating well-established and influential research areas (Quadrant 3—top right).

Strain sensor; flexible electronics; sensor

Figure  8 a highlights the progress of research on bioinspired innovations, particularly in the development of strain sensors and flexible electronics for adaptive sensing technologies. Initially, concentrated on health applications aligned with SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), the focus has expanded. The integration of SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure) indicates a shift toward industrial applications, while the incorporation of SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy) suggests a commitment to energy-efficient solutions. Additionally, the mention of SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) and SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) reflects the broadening scope to include urban sustainability and eco-friendly manufacturing practices.

Figure  8 b provides insight into the key phrases associated with this research topic, highlighting terms such as 'Bioinspired', 'Self-healing', 'Wearable Electronic Devices', 'Flexible Electronics', and 'Pressure Sensor'. These key phrases speak to the innovative approaches for creating sensors and electronics that are not only inspired by biological systems but also capable of seamlessly integrating human activity and environmental needs. The mention of 'Wearable Sensors' and 'Tactile Sensor' indicates a focus on user interaction and sensitivity, which is crucial for medical applications and smart infrastructure.

The top three articles with the most citations represent the cutting edge of this topic’s study. Chortos et al. 59 investigated how skin characteristics can be replicated for medicinal and prosthetic uses. Kim et al. 60 focused on creating ultrathin silicon nanoribbon sensors for smart prosthetic skin, opening up new possibilities for bionic systems with many sensors. A bioinspired microhairy sensor for ultraconformability on nonflat surfaces was introduced in Pang et al.'s 61 article, which significantly improved signal-to-noise ratios for accurate physiological measurements.

Cancer; photoacoustics; theranostic nanomedicine

Modern technologies such as photoacoustics, theranostic nanomedicine, and cancer research suggest that novel cancer diagnosis and therapy methods are highly needed. Figure  9 a traces the research focus that has evolved across various SDGs over time, commencing with SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), which is indicative of the central role of health in biomimetic research. It then extends into SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure) and SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), illustrating the cross-disciplinary applications of biomimetic technologies from healthcare to the energy and industrial sectors.

Figure  9 b provides a snapshot of the prominent keywords within this research theme, featuring terms such as “photodynamic therapy”, “photothermal chemotherapy”, “nanocarrier”, and “controlled drug delivery”. These terms underscore the innovative therapeutic strategies that mimic biological mechanisms for targeted cancer treatment. 'Bioinspired' and 'Biomimetic Synthesis' reflect the approach of deriving design principles from natural systems for the development of advanced materials and medical devices. 'Theranostic nanomedicine' integrates diagnosis and therapy, demonstrating a trend toward personalized and precision medicine.

A study conducted by Yu et al. 62 presented a novel approach for synergistic chemiexcited photodynamic-starvation therapy against metastatic tumors: a biomimetic nanoreactor, or bio-NR. Bio-NRs use hollow mesoporous silica nanoparticles to catalyze the conversion of glucose to hydrogen peroxide for starvation therapy while also producing singlet oxygen for photodynamic therapy. Bio-NR is promising for treating cancer metastasis because its coating on cancer cells improves its biological qualities. Yang et al.'s 63 study focused on a biocompatible Gd-integrated CuS nanotheranostic agent created via a biomimetic approach. This drug has low systemic side effects and good photothermal conversion efficiency, making it suitable for skin cancer therapy. It also performs well in imaging. The ultrasmall copper sulfide nanoparticles generated within ferritin nanocages are described in Wang et al.’s 64 publication. This work highlights the possibility of photoacoustic imaging-guided photothermal therapy with improved therapeutic efficiency and biocompatibility. These highly referenced articles highlight the significance of biomimetic techniques in furthering nanotheranostics and cancer therapy.

Established biomimetic foundations

Here, there are topics with a greater number of publications but a lower prominence percentile, which may imply areas where there has been significant research but that may be waning in influence or undergoing a shift in focus (Quadrant 4—bottom right).

Metaheuristics; Fireflies; Chiroptera

This topic is a fascinating mix of subjects. Using Firefly and Chiroptera in metaheuristic optimization algorithms provides a bioinspired method for resolving challenging issues. The thematic progression of research papers suggests the maturation of biomimetic disciplines that resonate with several SDGs (Fig.  10 a). The shift from initially aligning with SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) extends to intersecting with goals such as SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure), SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), SDG 13 (Climate Action), and SDG 15 (Life on Land). This diversification reflects the expansive utility of biomimetic approaches, from health applications to broader environmental and societal challenges.

The top keyphrases, such as 'Swarm Intelligence', 'Global Optimization', 'Cuckoo Search Algorithm', and 'Particle Swarm Optimization', are shown in Fig.  10 b highlights the utilization of nature-inspired algorithms for solving complex optimization problems. These terms, along with the 'Firefly Algorithm' and 'Bat Algorithm', underscore the transition of natural phenomena into computational algorithms that mimic the behavioral patterns of biological organisms, offering robust solutions in various fields, including resource management, logistics, and engineering design.

The three highly referenced metaheuristic publications centered around the “Moth Flame Optimization (MFO),” Salp Swarm Algorithm (SSA),” and Whale Optimization Algorithm (WOA).” The WOA, authored by Mirjalili and Lewis 65 , is a competitive solution for mathematical optimization and structural design issues because it emulates the social behavior of humpback whales. Inspired by the swarming behavior of salps, Mirjalili et al. 66 introduced the SSA and multiobjective SSA. This shows how well they function in optimizing a variety of engineering design difficulties. Finally, Mirjalili 67 suggested the MFO algorithm, which is modeled after the navigational strategy of moths and exhibits competitive performance in resolving benchmark and real-world engineering issues.

Bioprinting; three-dimensional printing; tissue engineering

The emphasis on sophisticated manufacturing methods for biological applications in this field suggests a keen interest in the nexus of biology and technology, especially in tissue engineering. As shown in Fig.  11 a, the topic's evolution encompasses Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) that have transitioned over the years, including SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), which is inherently connected to the advancement of medical technologies and tissue engineering for health applications. This research also touches upon SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation) and SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), suggesting applications of bioprinting technologies in the environmental sustainability and energy sectors. The progression toward SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure) and SDG 15 (Life on Land) reflects a broader impact, where biomimetic principles are applied to foster innovation in industrial processes and contribute to the preservation of terrestrial ecosystems.

Key phrases emerging from the word cloud in Fig.  11 b, such as “Hydrogel”, “Biofabrication”, “Tissue Scaffold”, and “Regenerative Medicine”, highlight the specialized methodologies and materials that are inspired by natural processes and structures. Terms such as 'Three-Dimensional Printing' and 'Bioprinting' underscore the technological advancements in creating complex biological structures, aiming to revolutionize the field of tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.

Three widely referenced papers about advances in 3D printing—particularly in bioprinting, soft matter, and the incorporation of biological tissue with functional electronics—are described next. Truby and Lewis’s 68 review of light- and ink-based 3D printing techniques is ground-breaking. This highlights the technology's capacity to create soft matter with tunable properties and its potential applications in robotics, shape-morphing systems, biologically inspired composites, and soft sensors. Ozbolat, and Hospodiuk 69 provide a thorough analysis of “extrusion-based bioprinting (EBB).” The adaptability of EBB in printing different biologics is discussed in the paper, with a focus on its uses in pharmaceutics, primary research, and clinical contexts. Future directions and challenges in EBB technology are also discussed. Using 3D printing, Mannoor et al. 70 presented a novel method for fusing organic tissue with functioning electronics. In the proof-of-concept, a hydrogel matrix seeded with cells and an interwoven conductive polymer containing silver nanoparticles are 3D printed to create a bionic ear. The improved auditory sensing capabilities of the printed ear show how this novel technology allows biological and nanoelectronic features to work together harmoniously.

RQ3: Translation and commercialization

Biomimicry offers promising solutions for sustainability in commercial industries with environmentally sustainable product innovation and energy savings with reduced resource commitment 71 . However, translating biomimicry innovations from research to commercialization presents challenges, including product validation, regulatory hurdles, and the need for strategic investment, innovative financial models, and interdisciplinary collaboration 71 , 72 , 73 , 74 . Ethical considerations highlight the need for universally applicable ethical guidelines regarding the moral debates surrounding biomimicry, such as motivations for pursuing such approaches and the valuation of nature 75 .

Addressing these barriers requires interdisciplinary collaboration, targeted education, and training programs. Strategic investment in biomimicry research and development is also crucial. Encouraging an engineering mindset that integrates biomimicry principles into conventional practices and developing commercial acumen among researchers is essential for navigating the market landscape 76 . Securing sufficient funding is essential for the development, testing, and scaling of these innovations 76 .

Successful case studies illustrate that the strategic integration of biomimicry enhances corporate sustainability and innovation (Larson & Meier 2017). In biomedical research, biomimetic approaches such as novel scaffolds and artificial skins have made significant strides (Zhang 2012). Architecture benefits through energy-efficient building facades modeled after natural cooling systems (Webb et al. 2017). The textile industry uses biomimicry to create sustainable, high-performance fabrics 77 .

RQ4: Interdisciplinary collaboration

Agricultural innovations (sdgs 1—no poverty and 2—zero hunger).

Environmental degradation, biodiversity loss, poverty, and hunger highlight the need for sustainable agricultural methods to mimic natural ecosystems. This includes computational models for ecological interactions, field experiments for biomimetic techniques, and novel materials inspired by natural soil processes. Research can develop solutions such as artificial photosynthesis for energy capture, polyculture systems mimicking ecosystem diversity, and bioinspired materials for soil regeneration and water retention 28 . These innovations can improve sustainability and energy efficiency in agriculture, addressing poverty and hunger through sustainable farming practices.

Educational models (SDG 4—Quality education)

Integrating sustainability principles and biomimicry into educational curricula at all levels presents opportunities for innovation. Collaborations between educators, environmental scientists, and designers can create immersive learning experiences that promote sustainability. This includes interdisciplinary curricula with biomimicry case studies, digital tools, and simulations for exploring biomimetic designs, and participatory learning approaches for engaging students with natural environments. Designing biomimicry-based educational tools and programs can help students engage in hands-on, project-based learning 10 , fostering a deeper understanding of sustainable living and problem-solving.

Gender-inclusive design (SDG 5—Gender inequality)

Gender biases in design and innovation call for research into biomimetic designs and technologies that facilitate gender equality. This includes participatory design processes involving women as cocreators, studying natural systems for inclusive strategies, and applying biomimetic principles to develop technologies supporting gender equality. Bioinspired technologies can address women's specific needs, enhancing access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities. Interdisciplinary approaches involving gender studies, engineering, and environmental science can uncover new pathways for inclusive innovation.

Inclusive urban solutions (SDG 11—Sustainable cities and communities)

Rapid urbanization challenges such as housing shortages, environmental degradation, and unsustainable transportation systems require innovative solutions. Methodologies include systems thinking in urban planning, simulation tools for modeling biomimetic solutions, and pilot projects testing bioinspired urban innovations. Research on biomimetic architecture for affordable housing, green infrastructure for climate resilience, and bioinspired transportation systems can offer solutions. Collaborative efforts among architects, urban planners, ecologists, and sociologists are essential 78 .

Peace and justice (SDG 16—Peace, justice and institutions)

Social conflicts and weak institutions necessitate innovative approaches that integrate political science, sociology, and biology. Methods involve case studies, theoretical modeling, and participatory action research to develop strategies for peacebuilding and institutional development.

This research provides a comprehensive exploration of the multifaceted dimensions of biomimicry, SDG alignment, and interdisciplinary topics, demonstrating a clear trajectory of growth and relevance. Interdisciplinary collaboration has emerged as a pivotal strategy for unlocking the full potential of biomimicry in addressing underexplored SDGs.

While answering RQ1, the interdisciplinary analysis underscores the significant alignment of biomimicry research with several SDGs. This reflects the interdisciplinary nature of biomimicry and its ability to generate solutions for societal challenges. The analysis of two thematic clusters revealed the broad applicability of biomimicry across various sustainable development goals (SDGs). The first cluster includes health, partnership, and life on land (SDGs 3, 17, and 15), highlighting biomimicry's potential in medical technologies, sustainability collaborations, and land management. The second cluster encompasses clean water, energy, infrastructure, and marine life (SDGs 6, 7, 9, and 14), demonstrating innovative approaches to clean energy generation, sustainable infrastructure, and water purification.

In response to RQ2, this study highlights emerging topics within biomimicry research, such as metaheuristics and nanogenerators, which reflect a dynamic and evolving field that is swiftly gaining attention. These topics, alongside sensors, flexible electronics, and strain sensors, denote evolving research objectives and societal demands, pointing to new areas of study and innovation. This focus on interdisciplinary topics within biomimicry underscores the field’s adaptability and responsiveness to the shifting landscapes of technological and societal challenges.

In addressing RQ3, biomimicry holds potential for sustainable innovation but faces challenges in commercialization. Biomimicry inspires diverse technological and product innovations, driving sustainable advancements (Lurie-Luke 84 ). Overcoming these barriers through strategic investment, training, interdisciplinary collaboration, and ethical guidelines is essential for unlocking their full potential.

For RQ4 , the recommendations are formulated based on underexplored SDGs like 1, 4, 5, and 10 where biomimicry could play a pivotal role.

Future research could apply generative AI models to this dataset to validate the findings and explore additional insights. While our current study did not explore this topic, we see significant potential for this approach. Generative AI models can process extensive datasets and reveal patterns, potentially offering insights into biomimetic research correlations. The interpretation required for context-specific analysis remains challenging for generative AI 36 , 37

Our study provides valuable insights, but some limitations are worth considering. The chosen database might limit the comprehensiveness of the research captured, potentially excluding relevant work from other sources. Additionally, while the combination of cocitation mapping and BERTopic modeling provides a powerful analysis, both methods have inherent limitations. They may oversimplify the complexities of the field or introduce bias during theme interpretation, even with advanced techniques. Furthermore, our use of citations to thematically clustered publications as a proxy for impact inherits the limitations of citation analysis, such as biases toward established ideas and potential misinterpretations 79 , 80 . Another limitation of our study is the potential for missing accurate SDG mappings, as multiple SDG mapping initiatives are available, and our reliance on a single, Scopus-integrated method may not capture all relevant associations. Consequently, this could have resulted in the exclusion of papers that were appropriately aligned with certain SDGs but were not identified by our chosen mapping approach. Given these limitations, this study provides a valuable snapshot for understanding biomimicry research.

Data availability

All data generated or analyzed during this study are included in this published article and its supplementary information files.

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Published on 14.8.2024 in Vol 26 (2024)

Characterizing the Adoption and Experiences of Users of Artificial Intelligence–Generated Health Information in the United States: Cross-Sectional Questionnaire Study

Authors of this article:

Original Paper

• Oluwatobiloba Ayo-Ajibola 1 , BS   ; 
• Ryan J Davis 1 , BS   ; 
• Matthew E Lin 2 , MD   ; 
• Jeffrey Riddell 3 , MD   ; 
• Richard L Kravitz 4 , MD, MSPH  

1 Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States

2 Department of Head and Neck Surgery, David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States

3 Department of Emergency Medicine, Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States

4 Division of General Medicine, University of California Davis, Sacramento, CA, United States

Corresponding Author:

Richard L Kravitz, MD, MSPH

Division of General Medicine

University of California Davis

4150 V Street

PSSB Suite 2400

Sacramento, CA, 95817

United States

Phone: 1 916 734 7005

Email: [email protected]

Background: OpenAI’s ChatGPT is a source of advanced online health information (OHI) that may be integrated into individuals’ health information-seeking routines. However, concerns have been raised about its factual accuracy and impact on health outcomes. To forecast implications for medical practice and public health, more information is needed on who uses the tool, how often, and for what.

Objective: This study aims to characterize the reasons for and types of ChatGPT OHI use and describe the users most likely to engage with the platform.

Methods: In this cross-sectional survey, patients received invitations to participate via the ResearchMatch platform, a nonprofit affiliate of the National Institutes of Health. A web-based survey measured demographic characteristics, use of ChatGPT and other sources of OHI, experience characterization, and resultant health behaviors. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the data. Both 2-tailed t tests and Pearson chi-square tests were used to compare users of ChatGPT OHI to nonusers.

Results: Of 2406 respondents, 21.5% (n=517) respondents reported using ChatGPT for OHI. ChatGPT users were younger than nonusers (32.8 vs 39.1 years, P <.001) with lower advanced degree attainment (BA or higher; 49.9% vs 67%, P <.001) and greater use of transient health care (ED and urgent care; P <.001). ChatGPT users were more avid consumers of general non-ChatGPT OHI (percentage of weekly or greater OHI seeking frequency in past 6 months, 28.2% vs 22.8%, P <.001). Around 39.3% (n=206) respondents endorsed using the platform for OHI 2-3 times weekly or more, and most sought the tool to determine if a consultation was required (47.4%, n=245) or to explore alternative treatment (46.2%, n=239). Use characterization was favorable as many believed ChatGPT to be just as or more useful than other OHIs (87.7%, n=429) and their doctor (81%, n=407). About one-third of respondents requested a referral (35.6%, n=184) or changed medications (31%, n=160) based on the information received from ChatGPT. As many users reported skepticism regarding the ChatGPT output (67.9%, n=336), most turned to their physicians (67.5%, n=349).

Conclusions: This study underscores the significant role of AI-generated OHI in shaping health-seeking behaviors and the potential evolution of patient-provider interactions. Given the proclivity of these users to enact health behavior changes based on AI-generated content, there is an opportunity for physicians to guide ChatGPT OHI users on an informed and examined use of the technology.

Introduction

The internet is a highly trafficked source of health information, with over half of US adults polled in 2019 reporting the use of search engines and social media for health-related purposes [ 1 , 2 ]. With increasing ease of access to online health information (OHI), patients no longer rely exclusively on physicians for medical information, as many seek web-based guidance for understanding and managing personal health concerns [ 3 - 5 ].

On December 22, 2022, OpenAI released ChatGPT, their GPT-4 technology [ 6 ]. ChatGPT is a large language model (LLM) artificial intelligence (AI) trained on vast text data to generate human-like responses to text queries. As ChatGPT positions itself as a formidable alternative to conventional internet search engines, its capability to generate expert “human” conversations and responses continues to diversify and strengthen as the technology is improved through mass use [ 7 , 8 ]. Within 2 months it amassed 100 million unique users, marking the fastest online platform adoption in history [ 9 ].

ChatGPT has demonstrated proficiency in performing tasks on par with, and sometimes surpassing, physicians [ 10 , 11 ]. Ayers et al [ 12 ] revealed that ChatGPT could answer patient health questions on social media platforms more empathetically and effectively than some doctors. Another study highlighted the LLM’s competency in providing predominantly accurate information for health queries spanning over 17 specialties [ 13 ].

Nevertheless, ChatGPT’s primary objective—to produce human-like text—does not guarantee the accuracy of medical information. Considerable prior research has emphasized the assessment of the quality of ChatGPT’s responses to simulated health inquiries, further suggesting reliance on incorrect health advice may cause harm due to mismanagement or delays [ 12 , 14 - 19 ]. Thus, many health care professionals have encouraged caution when considering adopting the technology for patient advice and incorporation into practice [ 20 , 21 ].

As ChatGPT’s popularity soars, patients will likely integrate this tool into their health information-seeking routine. Notably, younger patients with more severe health conditions and limited health care system interactions have shown a propensity for OHI use and may tend to be early adopters of ChatGPT for health purposes [ 22 ]. Identifying the characteristics of early ChatGPT adopters may provide insight into who may benefit most from tailored guidance on appropriate use and potential risks of ChatGPT OHI. Further, understanding the purposes of patient use and the resultant health behaviors may help physicians as they support patients in their pursuit of accurate and reliable information to support their health care decisions.

Previous research has explored OHI-seeking behavior on other popular media such as YouTube and Facebook, however, minimal focus has been placed on the users of ChatGPT OHI [ 23 - 26 ]. Of the few studies that have examined the nature and experiences of patients actually using this OHI platform, none have explored the characteristics that differentiate ChatGPT OHI seekers from general OHI users [ 27 ]. This study aims to not only delineate the demographics and use characteristics of ChatGPT OHI-seekers, but also characterize user experience and subsequent action based on the information received.

This study aimed to address these knowledge gaps by posing the following 4 research questions:

• RQ1: How do ChatGPT OHI adopters’ demographic characteristics compare to nonusers?
• RQ2: How do ChatGPT OHI users characterize the purpose and frequency of their use?
• RQ3: How do users characterize the ease, understanding, and usefulness of ChatGPT OHI?
• RQ4: How do ChatGPT users use information derived from the tool?

Ethical Considerations

The University of Southern California Institutional Review Board approved this cross-sectional survey on human participants (UP# 23-00390).

This featured an information sheet that explained that the study aimed to record their use of OHI, their participation was voluntary, the survey would take up to 10 minutes, and their data would be completely anonymous (no identifiers were used). This also outlined privacy and confidentiality protections, including the use of digital and physical barriers to data vulnerability.

Model Adaptation and Questionnaire Creation

Given the nascent nature of research on patient’s experiences with ChatGPT, we were unable to use an existing questionnaire. As such, we created a novel survey instrument by adapting several sources with previously collected valid evidence. The final questionnaire is available as Multimedia Appendix 1 . Our approach was informed in part by the Health Beliefs Model, which identifies factors associated with the adoption of health-related behaviors ( Multimedia Appendix 2 ) [ 28 ]. The model posits that adoption of a given health-related behavior is affected by perceived susceptibility to illness, severity of the issue, confidence in one’s ability to perform the behavior (self-efficacy), and perceived benefits and barriers to completing the desired health action. “Cues to Action” from events or other people may also spur the behavior. We surmised that younger patients, patients in worse health, those with more OHI experience, and those with acute health concerns (cues) would be most likely to report ChatGPT use in the first place and to use the tool more frequently. Multimedia Appendix 1 depicts the Health Beliefs Model adapted for predicting the use of ChatGPT.

Using a REDCap (Research Electronic Data Capture) questionnaire, we collected demographic details, including age, race, and preferred language [ 29 ]. We assessed sociodemographic factors via educational level, household income, and location of primary health care access [ 30 ]. Unfortunately, gender was inadvertently omitted in the initial survey. We rectified this oversight via an abbreviated separate second survey wave, wherein gender information was successfully captured. The purpose of this sample was to estimate the gender distribution of the population. The small sample size (n=137) constrained meaningful group comparisons.

Health literacy was assessed using the eHealth Literacy Scale, scored with a 5-point scale from 1=strongly disagree to 5=strongly agree [ 31 ]. A total of 4 of the 8 items from the original scale were retained, corresponding to the respondent’s ability to find and use health resources on the web, distinguish source quality, and make decisions based on the information they receive. Self-reported health status was assessed with the 5-point question: “How would you rate your health? (excellent, very good, good, fair, or poor)” [ 32 ].

The frequency of general OHI use was assessed using a list of popular sources of OHI, adapted from Zhang et al [ 33 ]. These included internet search engines, online encyclopedia sites, online health sites (eg, WebMD, MedlinePlus, and MayoClinic), online forums (eg, Reddit subgroups, Facebook groups, and specialized health organization forums), and question-and-answer sites. Survey progression depended on respondents identifying ChatGPT as one of their OHI channels. An attention question was included to screen out respondents who were not attending to the task at hand.

We evaluated perceived severity by inquiring how severe a problem usually is before the need for OHI arises. Perceived benefits were assessed with questions asking patients to indicate whether they agreed with multiple statements on a scale of strongly disagree (1) to strongly agree (5). These statements were as follows: “It is easy to use ChatGPT for the purpose of getting online health information,” “The information received from ChatGPT is easy to understand,” and “The online health information I receive from ChatGPT is relevant to my specific needs.”

Of the above, the last statement was adapted from Murray et al [ 24 ], which assessed the impact of OHI on patient-physician partnerships. Respondents also evaluated the overall usefulness of ChatGPT health information on a scale from poor (1) to excellent (5), and compared the usefulness of Chat-GPT derived OHI to information from other OHI sources and from their physicians [ 23 ].

Perceived barriers included the ability to obtain information in one’s preferred language, concerns about the accuracy of ChatGPT OHI, and methods of information verification. Previous use of ChatGPT for nonmedical purposes, the intended beneficiary of OHI (self vs close contact), and the type of concerns were assessed as “Cues to Action” [ 34 ].

Finally, we assessed behavioral outcomes which included the frequency of use, the timing of initial use serving as an indicator of early adoption, and the motivations behind utilization. These motivations included information-seeking for self-management, as a prelude to escalating care to a health professional, identifying alternative treatment, obtaining alternative information following a recent consultation, or simply pursuing interest or curiosity. Respondents were also asked if, as a result of their most recent use of ChatGPT, they asked a doctor for clarification, refused or requested a test or referral, changed medications; scheduled or canceled a doctor’s appointment, or performed no action. A final question was asked about sharing ChatGPT OHI with their physician.

All 48 questions (if applicable) were marked as required to answer to limit missing data, and respondents were unable to return to prior sections once they advanced.

Pilot-Testing

After 3 rounds of internal revisions, we piloted within the researchers’ networks to enhance clarity, readability, and conciseness. This preliminary testing involved 15 community members connected to the researchers, including physicians, mental health therapists, and medical students with diverse demographic characteristics. Reviewers provided written and verbal feedback regarding ambiguity and challenges during the completion of the survey. Particular attention was paid to the relevance, appropriateness, and cognitive load required to answer items. We incorporated changes to the survey during a structured debriefing session. Based on this feedback, we excluded the other 4 eHealth inquiries, including “select all that apply” phrasing for questions regarding behavioral changes and reasons for initiation of ChatGPT use and incorporating priming subsection headings to prepare respondents for each varied task.

Survey Population

The open survey was distributed to 21,499 members of ResearchMatch—a disease-neutral, Web-based recruitment registry—to help contact patients who have registered for eligibility to participate in clinical research studies [ 35 ]. Its 152,000 community reside in the Continental US and Puerto Rico, including those of all ages and races, both those in good health and those with health issues. ResearchMatch is supported by the US National Institutes of Health as part of the Clinical Translational Science Award program and is operated by the Vanderbilt University Medical Center, which maintains a large population of volunteers who have consented to be contacted by researchers about health studies for which they may be eligible. Participating health care systems around the country provide voluntary invitations for community members to join and make an account that allows for advertisements of available research studies. This population may preselect for a population with more dependable access to the internet such as White individuals with higher education and income. Platform moderators report that the majority of volunteers are female (69.1%, n=105,032), older than 18 years (97.2%, n=147,744), and White (70.6%, n=107,312) with 40.5% (n=61,560) volunteers reporting having no medical conditions. The platform allows researchers to specify cohorts prior to distribution by age, gender, race, health issue, and location. However, for the purpose of this study, the only parameters used were age to ensure adult participation only (≥18 years) and selection of all 50 US States with the exclusion of Puerto Rico. To reach the 21,499 members, researchers invited respondents in 1000 and 1499 (maximum) respondent batches for a total of 11 outreach rounds over the course of 2 months.

Survey Administration

From June 10, 2023, to August 10, 2023, the survey was administered to consenting ResearchMatch members aged 18 years and older, with initial messaging being the only contact with participants. Initial contact with participants occurred within the internet-based contact platform within Research Match, wherein they were given a short message explaining that medical researchers investigating OHI were inviting them to participate in a research study. A link was attached to this email that allowed them to access the informed consent sheet and, upon consent, the survey. ReCAPTCHA technology was used to prevent bot survey abuse; however, no IP or cookie tracking was utilized to prevent duplicate entries. Informed consent for the survey was obtained from all participants as a cover page displayed prior to consent attestation. No personal identifying data was collected. The researchers incentivized participants to participate by offering them the opportunity to win one of 2 US $50 gift cards. A separate link to a Qualtrics form was used, and 2 respondents were randomly selected for each prize. Of the 21,499 participants given access to the survey link, 2406 participants completed the survey resulting in a response rate of 11.2%.

Data Analysis

Statistical analysis was performed with Stata Statistical Software (release 18; StataCorp LLC). Descriptive statistics were used to characterize the cohort. In addition, significance testing using t tests and Pearson chi-square tests was used to evaluate the differences between users of ChatGPT OHI and nonusers. Results were considered statistically significant at P <.05. All P values were 2-sided. No methods to weight items or propensity scores were used to adjust the nonrepresentative sample. Presumably, due to the raffle incentive, there was little missing data. Missing observations were simply excluded from individual analyses without imputation.

How Do ChatGPT Users Compare to Nonusers?

Table 1 depicts the demographic and health characteristics of all respondents, ChatGPT users, and ChatGPT nonusers. Among all respondents, most were female, White, and at least college-educated, and had less than US $100,000 in annual household earnings. The average age was 37.6 years. Most respondents had a continuity-based usual source of care such as a doctor’s office, health center, or VA, but a substantial number used urgent care centers or emergency departments. Consistent with the ResearchMatch sampling frame (individuals interested in participating in medical research), almost two-thirds rated their health as less than very good.

Among respondents, 517 (21.5%) were ChatGPT users and 1889 (78.6%) were nonusers. ChatGPT users were significantly younger than nonusers (32.8 vs 39.1 years, P <.001; Table 2 ). Compared with nonusers, ChatGPT OHI users were significantly more likely to identify as White (83.4% vs 78.6%, P =.02), earn less than US $100,000 annually (84.7% vs 73.1%, P <.001), and report educational attainment of less than a bachelor degree (50.1% vs 33%, P <.001, Table 1 ). Users were also more likely to use convenience or emergency (noncontinuity based) health care (52.2% vs 36.4%, P <.001), grade their health as less than very good (71.9% vs 63.8%, P =.001), and report heavy general OHI seeking frequency of weekly or more in the last 6 months (60.5% vs 49.3%, P <.001).

The Cronbach α for the scale measuring eLiteracy scores was 0.773, indicating good internal consistency among the items. Compared with nonusers, ChatGPT users displayed considerably lower eLiteracy scores ( P =.007).

a Not available.

b VA: Veteran\'s Affairs.

c Generated score is an average based on scores from 4 selected eLiteracy items measured from strongly disagree (1) to strongly agree (5)

a Respondents were allowed to select more than one response.

How Do ChatGPT OHI Users Characterize the Purpose and Frequency of Their Use?

Most ChatGPT users endorsed a prior nonmedical use of the technology, with use initiation being primarily influenced by health care provider (HCP) recommendations, advertisements on websites or apps, and sponsored posts or ads on social media ( Table 2 ). The most cited reasons for initiating use were determining the necessity of visiting a health professional and exploring alternative treatment options.

About a quarter reported using ChatGPT for OHI for 6 months or longer, which aligns with the timeline of ChatGPT’s introduction to the public. Use of ChatGPT OHI was frequent, with 40% (n=206) of respondents reporting use 2-3 times weekly or more.

How Do Users Characterize the Ease, Understanding, and Usefulness of ChatGPT OHI?

Almost all users could obtain health information from the tool in their preferred language ( Table 3 ). Users were divided regarding the overall usefulness of ChatGPT OHI; however, 63% (n=317) considered this information to be better than other OHI sources. Moreover, 4 of 5 users deemed ChatGPT OHI to be at least as good an information source as their physician.

The Cronbach α for the user experience scale was 0.67, indicating acceptable internal consistency. Respondents reported a generally positive ChatGPT experience (mean of 3.74 on 5-point scale). Conversely, 68% of users suspected that some aspect of the received information from the AI was inaccurate.

a Generated score is an average of scores from 3 questions pertaining to ease of use, understanding, and relevance of ChatGPT OHI, measured from Strongly Disagree (1) to Strongly Agree (5); (Cronbach α=0.645).

b MD: medical doctor.

What Are the Most Common Health Behaviors That Follow the Use of ChatGPT?

Users commonly presented results of ChatGPT OHI to a physician (68%, n=338). Moreover, as a result of ChatGPT OHI use, 42.9% (n=222) of users asked a doctor for clarification of information, 45.8% (n=237) for more information, 35.6% (n=184) for a specialty referral, and 31% (n=160) for a new or different prescription ( Table 4 ).

a MD: medical doctor.

Principal Findings

This study is among the first to appraise patient use of ChatGPT-derived OHI. In this sample of participants in a national research cooperative, the use of ChatGPT for medical purposes was common, with users of the tool more likely to be White, have lower educational attainment, be in poor health, and receive care from noncontinuity based sources such as urgent care centers, retail clinics, and emergency departments. A large portion of users initiated use at the suggestion of a HCP and use of the tool was associated with altering appointments, changing medications, and consulting a physician as a result of their search.

Given the platform’s recent introduction, adoption by over one-fifth of the sample is remarkable. While the highly engaged ResearchMatch population may be inherently more likely to use new forms of OHI, ChatGPT appears poised for adoption by a growing proportion of the 81% of American adults who use OHI [ 36 ]. Moreover, the low response rate of this sample may limit the generalizability of the use patterns we observed.

The demographic profile of ChatGPT users reveals a possible digital divide in the realm of AI-driven OHI. Consistent with past studies depicting greater use of health information technologies by Whites compared with non-Whites [ 37 , 38 ], our findings suggest an inequity in the adoption of this source of OHI by minorities which may be explained by underserved minority individuals being more likely to have lower health literacy and less access to the internet [ 39 - 42 ].

Although heavier use of ChatGPT among respondents with lower educational attainment may challenge the standard view linking educational achievement, high digital literacy, and the use of health technology, it could be that ChatGPT’s conversational format is more accessible to individuals without college or graduate degrees than other OHI sources [ 43 - 45 ]. Conversely, it is possible that the relative lack of use amongst the more educated is due to a possible distrust of the platform or, more conservatively, a tapered approach to adoption advised by a greater ability to assess the efficacy of the tool for OHI. Still, it is also possible that this finding is idiosyncratic, a function of our nonrepresentative survey sample.

ChatGPT OHI users were also found to have lower eHealth literacy, a finding that is seemingly paradoxical. However, one plausible interpretation of the finding that ChatGPT users have both lower eHealth literacy and lower educational attainment than their nonusing counterparts is less sophisticated health care consumers may benefit differentially from the conversational format of ChatGPT, while more educated and internet-savvy individuals may be able to satisfy their information needs in other ways (such as the use of traditional search engines, subscriptions to health education blogs such as the Harvard Health Letter, etc).

The preference of individuals in poorer health for utilizing ChatGPT as a health information resource aligns with the broader understanding that individuals with more significant health challenges may have increased information needs [ 46 , 47 ]. This heightened demand may stem from the necessity to understand and manage complex health conditions, leading to a more active pursuit of diverse information sources, including AI platforms like ChatGPT. Moreover, as ChatGPT users prefer transient health care more often, those accustomed to expedient, on-demand care are likely more inclined to gravitate towards ChatGPT OHI’s mode of instantaneous personalized information [ 46 ]. Moreover, as increased OHI use is associated with barriers to traditional health care access, it is likely that when faced with barriers to health care—such as cost, availability, and accessibility—individuals turn to alternative information sources, including ChatGPT [ 48 ]. This presents physicians with a unique opportunity to identify and counsel patients about the value and limitations of using LLMs for health information, offering to be available in the appropriate context (eg, a future office visit) to help interpret the information received. This partnership not only bridges information gaps but also reinforces the physician’s role in collaborating with patients as they navigate their health information journey. Moreover, as physicians become more familiar with the abilities and inabilities of ChatGPT and similar programs, they can more effectively counsel patients on the prudent use of such AI resources in complementing ongoing medical care.

While most users came to the tool through advertisements or social media posts, a substantial number reported using it at the suggestion of HCPs. The percentage of physicians who see digital health tools as an advantage for patient care grew from 85% in 2016 to 93% in 2022, corresponding to a similar increase use of digital health tools by physicians [ 49 ]. Moreover, as approximately 10% of US HCPs endorse the use of AI, with another 50% considering future use, HCPs’ personal experiences with ChatGPT may influence their willingness to recommend them to patients, reflecting a growing confidence in the utility of such AI tools for patient care [ 50 ]. Considering that almost two-thirds of ChatGPT users reported ChatGPT use once a week or more, many respondents likely trusted their HCP’s recommendation. However, it is important to clarify that this survey item instructed respondents to pick this option as a reason for the recommendation, even if the HCP was a family member or friend. This may have augmented the number of individuals who report having been recommended the tool by a care provider. A poor understanding of who may qualify as a HCP may also account for this unexpectedly high referral rate, considering the novelty and skepticism surrounding ChatGPT OHI. Nonetheless, patient awareness and confidence in ChatGPT within this study have arguably outpaced the completion of rigorous studies of the tool’s efficacy and accuracy in delivering health recommendations.

For about half of respondents, ChatGPT use was followed by some health behavior such as formalized care-seeking, asking for information, and asking for further action, including setting or canceling an appointment or requesting new testing. OHI has been shown in multiple studies to stimulate care-seeking and clinical question-asking [ 51 , 52 ]. It is remarkable, however, that ChatGPT, despite its relative infancy, appears to promote behavioral change rates similar to more established sources of OHI. Further, given that most patients reported care-seeking behaviors despite also believing some aspect of the information received was inaccurate, it is promising that verifying the information with a physician arose as a leading resultant health behavior. This aligns with previous studies that emphasize the role of physicians in verifying traditional OHI, suggesting that the traditional physician-patient relationship may endure as physicians who can identify likely ChatGPT OHI users will be able to counsel regarding the efficacy and accuracy of the information received [ 53 , 54 ].

User perceptions of their ChatGPT OHI experience along the dimensions of comparable usefulness, ease of use, and suspected inaccuracy raise several intriguing contrasts. Around 52% (n=260) of respondents rated ChatGPT to be overall poor to good in usefulness, while more than 80% (n=429) rated it to be better than or as good as other OHI sources. Users may appreciate certain aspects of ChatGPT, such as the conversational interaction, user interface, and quick reception of information, which may not be as easily executed on other OHI platforms. It may be the case that users who rated in this manner more heavily weighted the advantages of ChatGPT’s information delivery and accessibility over their perception of inaccuracy or information usefulness. Further, the dichotomy between the concerns for inaccuracy and the somewhat favorable ratings on usefulness suggests a nuanced understanding of “usefulness” by the users. While our data may suggest action is likely after the use of ChatGPT, many patients may find value in ChatGPT as a starting point for health information or as a means to facilitate discussions with HCPs, a relationship past research has supported for traditional OHI [ 53 , 54 ].

Thus, during the digital health information age, a balance must be held between the desire for rapid information acquisition and the need for accurate, trustworthy advice. Even more importantly, it is important to consider user information-seeking experience when evaluating these OHI tools, as this may play an important role in the uptake and appraisal of the tools’ usefulness to patients.

Limitations and Future Directions

While shedding light on the adoption and utilization of ChatGPT for OHI, this study carries 4 principal limitations. First, the study’s cross-sectional design limits the understanding of causal relationships and does not capture behavior over time. Rather than prompting particular health-related decisions or behaviors, the use of ChatGPT may instead have been a consequence of preexisting decisions or behaviors. Second, as a self-administered survey, this study is subject to reporting and recall bias. Third, two features limit the generalizability of the results: (1) the ResearchMatch population skews younger, less ethnically diverse, and arguably more engaged with health and health care than the US population as a whole; and (2) despite similar demographic profiles, our sample may differ from the ResearchMatch population in other (unmeasured) ways [ 55 ]. These differences may have influenced perceptions and experiences with ChatGPT in the OHI context. Future investigations should focus on diverse sampling strategies to include participants of varying degrees of education and digital literacy to examine how different populations engage with ChatGPT for OHI. Fourth, we could not directly examine the specific content accessed by ChatGPT users nor the completeness or accuracy of the information received.

Conclusions

This study revealed a swift adoption of ChatGPT, particularly among younger patients with poorer health and those using transient (noncontinuity-based) forms of health care. As ChatGPT appears to influence both intensity and types of care-seeking behavior, physicians and other HCPs must proactively identify and counsel patients on best practices for the use of this emerging technology. This skill will be vital in preserving the integrity of the physician-patient relationship and ensuring safe and effective health care in an increasingly AI-driven digital world. More research is needed to understand how patients and physicians can work together to make optimal use of these powerful but potentially hazardous tools.

Acknowledgments

The authors would like to thank the health care providers and community members who provided feedback and testing for this study including but not limited to: Olivia Campa MD (UC Davis), Ayodeji Ajibola MD (Kaiser Permanente Roseville), Elizabeth Burner MD MPH (Keck School of Medicine of USC), Adetokunbo Ajibola MSN, Madeline Stein BS (Antioch University), and Lauren Estess BS (Tufts School of Medicine). All authors declared that they had insufficient or no funding to support open access publication of this manuscript, including from affiliated organizations or institutions, funding agencies, or other organizations. JMIR Publications provided article processing fee support for the publication of this article.

Authors' Contributions

OAA, JR, and RLK were responsible for conceptualization, data curation, formal analysis, investigation, writing the original draft, and review and editing. RJD and MEL were involved in data curation, formal analysis, investigation, and review and editing.

Conflicts of Interest

None declared.

REDCap (Research Electronic Data Capture) questionnaire.

Health behaviors model for uptake and adherence to ChatGPT health information.

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Abbreviations

Edited by S Ma; submitted 04.12.23; peer-reviewed by TAR Sure, S Kommireddy, K Kaphingst; comments to author 17.03.24; revised version received 27.03.24; accepted 15.04.24; published 14.08.24.

©Oluwatobiloba Ayo-Ajibola, Ryan J Davis, Matthew E Lin, Jeffrey Riddell, Richard L Kravitz. Originally published in the Journal of Medical Internet Research (https://www.jmir.org), 14.08.2024.

This is an open-access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work, first published in the Journal of Medical Internet Research (ISSN 1438-8871), is properly cited. The complete bibliographic information, a link to the original publication on https://www.jmir.org/, as well as this copyright and license information must be included.

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Dynamics and stability analysis of nonlinear DNA molecules: Insights from the Peyrard-Bishop model

• Mostafa M. A. Khater 1,2,3 ,  ,  , 
• Mohammed Zakarya 4 , 
• Kottakkaran Sooppy Nisar 5 , 
• Abdel-Haleem Abdel-Aty 6
• 1. School of Medical Informatics and Engineering, Xuzhou Medical University, 209 Tongshan Road, 221004, Xuzhou, Jiangsu Province, PR China
• 2. Institute of Digital Economy, Ugra State University, Khanty-Mansiysk, Russia
• 3. Department of Basic Sciences, High Institute for Engineering and Technology Al Obour, Cairo 11828, Egypt
• 4. Department of Mathematics, College of Science, King Khalid University, P.O. Box 9004, Abha 61413, Saudi Arabia
• 5. Department of Mathematics, College of Science and Humanities in Alkharj, Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University, Alkharj 11942, Saudi Arabia
• 6. Department of Physics, College of Sciences, University of Bisha, Bisha 61922, Saudi Arabi
• Received: 30 January 2024 Revised: 18 June 2024 Accepted: 05 July 2024 Published: 05 August 2024

MSC : 35C08, 35Q05, 92C40, 70H06

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This study explores the nonlinear Peyrard-Bishop DNA dynamic model, a nonlinear evolution equation that describes the behavior of DNA molecules by considering hydrogen bonds between base pairs and stacking interactions between adjacent base pairs. The primary objective is to derive analytical solutions to this model using the Khater Ⅲ and improved Kudryashov methods. Subsequently, the stability of these solutions is analyzed through Hamiltonian system characterization. The Peyrard-Bishop model is pivotal in biophysics, offering insights into the dynamics of DNA molecules and their responses to external forces. By employing these analytical techniques and stability analysis, this research aims to enhance the understanding of DNA dynamics and its implications in fields such as drug design, gene therapy, and molecular biology. The novelty of this work lies in the application of the Khater Ⅲ and an enhanced Kudryashov methods to the Peyrard-Bishop model, along with a comprehensive stability investigation using Hamiltonian system characterization, providing new perspectives on DNA molecule dynamics within the scope of nonlinear dynamics and biophysics.

• Peyrard-Bishop model ,
• DNA dynamics ,
• nonlinear evolution equations ,
• analytical solutions

Citation: Mostafa M. A. Khater, Mohammed Zakarya, Kottakkaran Sooppy Nisar, Abdel-Haleem Abdel-Aty. Dynamics and stability analysis of nonlinear DNA molecules: Insights from the Peyrard-Bishop model[J]. AIMS Mathematics, 2024, 9(9): 23449-23467. doi: 10.3934/math.20241140

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沈阳化工大学材料科学与工程学院 沈阳 110142

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• Mostafa M. A. Khater
• Mohammed Zakarya
• Kottakkaran Sooppy Nisar
• Abdel-Haleem Abdel-Aty

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• Figure 1. Numerical representations of the solitary wave solutions obtained through analytical methods are presented. Panels (a-f) display the bright solitary wave solutions computed using the Khater Ⅲ method (Eqs (2.1) and (2.2)). Panels (g-i) illustrate the solitary wave solutions derived from an enhanced Kudryashov scheme (Eq (2.3)). These qualitative plots serve to validate the diversity of analytical solitary wave solutions and their localized wave profiles obtained from the two distinct techniques within the nonlinear framework of the Peyrard-Bishop DNA model
• Figure 2. Numerical representations of the solitary wave solutions obtained through analytical methods are depicted. Panels (a-c) illustrate the bright solitary wave solutions computed utilizing the Khater Ⅱ method (Eq (2.4)). These qualitative plots serve to validate the diversity of analytical solitary wave solutions and their localized wave profiles acquired from the two distinct techniques within the nonlinear framework of the Peyrard-Bishop DNA model
• Figure 3. The Hamiltonian framework of the Peyrard-Bishop DNA model reveals conserved quantities, illustrated in Panels (a, b) and (c, d), depicting the momentum $\mathbb{M}$ as described by Eqs (2.5) and (2.6). These conserved dynamic properties arise from the intrinsic nonlinearity governing the system. Graphical representation of these conserved quantities offers valuable insights into the equilibrium conditions that uphold DNA strand integrity within the physically-consistent nonlinear dynamics of the Peyrard-Bishop model
• Figure 4. A stream plot of the bright solitary wave solution, expressed by Eq (2.1) and (2.2), is presented with specific parameter values denoted as (a-i). Continuous lines depict the gradual variation in DNA strand displacement ($u$) concerning distance ($x$) and time ($t$), illustrating localized melting bubbles that smoothly rise and fall along the strand during the denaturation process. This visual representation qualitatively captures bubble breathing dynamics and nonlinear strand fluctuations associated with bubble nucleation and growth
• Figure 5. A stream plot of the dark solitary wave solution, formulated by Eqs (2.3) and (2.4), is presented with parameter values denoted as (j-o). The oscillating contour pattern showcases periodic fluctuations in the strand displacement ($u$) across spatial and temporal coordinates, offering a visual representation of bubble oscillation phenomena within denaturing regions. Localized ripples propagate along the strand, retaining their shape and amplitude, effectively illustrating bubble propagation and coalescence through Ripple-Like soliton interactions during denaturation-renaturation transitions