Tiny robots with a big impact: microrobots for single-cell handling
Scientists have developed microrobots with nanoscale grippers to manipulate single cells gently. These laser-operated tools work with optical tweezers, enabling precise cell interactions without harm. The study in Advanced Science demonstrates their potential.
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Scientists have developed microrobots equipped with nanoscale grippers to handle single cells, offering new possibilities for imaging and manipulating these tiny units. These laser-operated microrobots work in conjunction with optical tweezers, allowing for precise manipulation and interaction between cells without damaging them. The microrobots were created using a process called two-photon polymerization, enabling the crafting of nanometer-sized tools that are thin and flexible enough to grip cells gently. The team designed three tools that can transfer single cells, rotate cells for microscopy imaging, and bring cells together to study their reactions. These microrobots provide a non-destructive way to manipulate and image single cells in their natural environment. While the technology is specialized, labs with the necessary equipment can modify and optimize these microtools for various tasks. The study was published in Advanced Science, showcasing the successful development of these microrobots for single-cell handling.
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10 commentsThe "micro-robots" are constructed by two-photon polymerization and actuated by laser tweezers grabbing onto "handholds". This avoids the laser heating up the biological specimens.
Note: two-photon polymerization is not not the same as what resin 3D printers use.
Paper: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/adma.202401...
The current microfluidics and optical tweezer systems are slow and cummbersome and not very efficient yet already costing millions. This will probably double the price...
I know there are more important problems to solve than male pattern baldness, but somehow I think, in my limited understanding, replicating hair follicles should be easier than growing organs in labs.
> A desperate dying man injects himself with experimental nanobots that can supposedly cure anything. It works, but then his body starts to hideously mutate. He asks his soon-to-be brother-in-law, who invented the nanobots, for help.
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