In recent breakthroughs, scientists have created the first walking robot powered entirely by living muscle cells, marking a significant step forward in the field of bio-robotics. This innovative robot combines biological muscle tissue with mechanical components, allowing it to move in a natural and flexible manner. Researchers from the University of Illinois have developed a miniature biorobot that uses electrical pulses to control its movement, opening up new possibilities for future biobots.
The robot is driven by skeletal muscle cells arranged in a strip-like structure, which respond to controlled current pulses. This method allows for precise control over the robot's motion, making it more adaptable than previous models. Rashid Bashir, a leading researcher at the University of Illinois’ Department of Bioengineering, explained that this development could serve as a foundation for building more complex biological systems. He emphasized the importance of merging engineering principles with biology to create functional biomechanical devices with potential applications in medicine and environmental monitoring.
Unlike earlier prototypes that used heart cells—known for their unpredictable contractions—this new design utilizes skeletal muscle cells, which are easier to control. The robot measures less than 1 centimeter in length and is constructed using flexible 3D-printed hydrogel materials combined with living cells. This combination gives it both strength and adaptability, similar to natural biological structures.
Inspired by the muscle-tendon-bone system found in nature, the robot’s backbone is a 3D-printed hydrogel that is both strong and flexible. Two columns act as legs, attaching the muscle strips to the hydrogel structure, much like how tendons connect muscles to bones. By adjusting the frequency of the electrical pulses, researchers can regulate the robot’s speed, offering greater control and versatility.
This advancement paves the way for custom-designed bio-robots that can be tailored for specific tasks, such as targeted drug delivery or environmental sensing. With further development, these biobots could revolutionize medical treatments and environmental monitoring, bringing us closer to a future where biology and technology work hand in hand.
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