MIT Engineers Develop Ultra-Thin, Light-Activated Biohybrid Robot Powered by Living Muscle Cells

Innovative Biohybrid Robot Created at MIT

According to НВ — Техно: Researchers at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) have engineered a remarkably thin biohybrid robot, measuring just about 0.5 millimeters thick, capable of swimming through water by harnessing living muscle cells. These cells have been genetically engineered to contract in response to light stimulation. The robot features two fins coated with a muscle cell layer thinner than a human hair. This marks the first successful creation of such a slim, two-dimensional robot that can move autonomously using live muscle tissue.

Instead of the commonly used fibrin, the robot's base was fabricated from gelatin methacrylate (GelMA). The shape and stiffness of this substrate play crucial roles in synchronizing muscle contractions. Researchers found that grooves with flat, square bottoms aligned the cells more effectively than rounded ones. Before assembly, the muscle tissue was conditioned with pulses of light to enhance contraction strength. At its peak performance, the robot can swim a distance equivalent to about four times its own length per minute.

Testing and Future Applications

The robot was tested inside a large Petri dish containing an underwater maze, where light sources were manually controlled to direct its movement. Compared to previous biohybrid robots requiring bulky 3D structures and millions of cells, this design uses a much thinner biological layer. The MIT team aims to optimize the robot's design to increase swimming speed and is exploring potential uses in aquatic ecosystem research.

This breakthrough represents a major advancement in biomedical engineering and robotics, opening new horizons for micro-robots capable of operating in complex aquatic environments. Specifically, such robots could improve our ability to study and preserve water-based ecosystems. Continued research may lead to innovative applications in medical diagnostics, environmental monitoring, and other scientific fields where precise, small-scale robotics are invaluable.

This innovative development at MIT is part of a growing trend in robotics, where biohybrid systems are being designed to possess versatile movement capabilities. For instance, a palm-sized robot has demonstrated impressive skills in jumping, climbing, and swimming, showcasing the potential of elastic limbs in robotic design. Such advancements highlight the exciting possibilities for future applications in various fields.