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Sun L, Chen Z, Xu D, Zhao Y. Electroconductive and Anisotropic Structural Color Hydrogels for Visual Heart-on-a-Chip Construction. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2022; 9:e2105777. [PMID: 35347883 PMCID: PMC9165491 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202105777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Revised: 03/02/2022] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
Heart-on-a-chip plays an important role in revealing the biological mechanism and developing new drugs for cardiomyopathy. Tremendous efforts have been devoted to developing heart-on-a-chip systems featuring simplified fabrication, accurate imitation and microphysiological visuality. In this paper, the authors present a novel electroconductive and anisotropic structural color hydrogel by simply polymerizing non-close-packed colloidal arrays on super aligned carbon nanotube sheets (SACNTs) for visualized and accurate heart-on-a-chip construction. The generated anisotropic hydrogel consists of a colloidal array-locked hydrogel layer with brilliant structural color on one surface and a conductive methacrylated gelatin (GelMA)/SACNTs film on the other surface. It is demonstrated that the anisotropic morphology of the SACNTs could effectively induce the alignment of cardiomyocytes, and the conductivity of SACNTs could contribute to the synchronous beating of cardiomyocytes. Such consistent beating rhythm caused the deformation of the hydrogel substrates and dynamic shifts in structural color and reflection spectra of the whole hybrid hydrogels. More attractively, with the integration of such cardiomyocyte-driven living structural color hydrogels and microfluidics, a visualized heart-on-a-chip system with more consistent beating frequency has been established for dynamic cardiomyocyte sensing and drug screening. The results indicate that the electroconductive and anisotropic structural color hydrogels are potential for various biomedical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingyu Sun
- Department of Rheumatology and ImmunologyInstitute of Translational MedicineThe Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical SchoolNanjing210008China
| | - Zhuoyue Chen
- State Key Laboratory of BioelectronicsSchool of Biological Science and Medical EngineeringSoutheast UniversityNanjing210096China
| | - Dongyu Xu
- Department of Rheumatology and ImmunologyInstitute of Translational MedicineThe Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical SchoolNanjing210008China
- State Key Laboratory of BioelectronicsSchool of Biological Science and Medical EngineeringSoutheast UniversityNanjing210096China
| | - Yuanjin Zhao
- Department of Rheumatology and ImmunologyInstitute of Translational MedicineThe Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical SchoolNanjing210008China
- State Key Laboratory of BioelectronicsSchool of Biological Science and Medical EngineeringSoutheast UniversityNanjing210096China
- Oujiang Laboratory (Zhejiang Lab for Regenerative Medicine, Vision and Brain Health)Wenzhou InstituteUniversity of Chinese Academy of SciencesWenzhouZhejiang325001China
- Institute for Stem Cell and RegenerationChinese Academy of ScienceBeijing100101China
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Fell CA, Brooks-Richards TL, Woodruff M, Allenby MC. Soft pneumatic actuators for mimicking multi-axial femoropopliteal artery mechanobiology. Biofabrication 2022; 14. [PMID: 35378520 DOI: 10.1088/1758-5090/ac63ef] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2021] [Accepted: 04/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Tissue biomanufacturing aims to produce lab-grown stem cell grafts and biomimetic drug testing platforms but remains limited in its ability to recapitulate native tissue mechanics. The emerging field of soft robotics aims to emulate dynamic physiological locomotion, representing an ideal approach to recapitulate physiologically complex mechanical stimuli and enhance patient-specific tissue maturation. The kneecap's femoropopliteal artery (FPA) represents a highly flexible tissue across multiple axes during blood flow, walking, standing, and crouching positions, and these complex biomechanics are implicated in the FPA's frequent presentation of peripheral artery disease. We developed a soft pneumatically actuated (SPA) cell culture platform to investigate how patient-specific FPA mechanics affect lab-grown arterial tissues. Silicone hyperelastomers were screened for flexibility and biocompatibility, then additively manufactured into SPAs using a simulation-based design workflow to mimic normal and diseased FPA extensions in radial, angular, and longitudinal dimensions. SPA culture platforms were seeded with mesenchymal stem cells, connected to a pneumatic controller, and provided with 24-hour multi-axial exercise schedules to demonstrate the effect of dynamic conditioning on cell alignment, collagen production, and muscle differentiation without additional growth factors. Soft robotic bioreactors are promising platforms for recapitulating patient-, disease-, and lifestyle-specific mechanobiology for understanding disease, treatment simulations, and lab-grown tissue grafts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cody A Fell
- School of Mechanical, Medical and Process Engineering; Centre for Biomedical Technologies, Queensland University of Technology, 60 Musk Avenue, Kelvin Grove, Queensland, 4001, AUSTRALIA
| | - Trent L Brooks-Richards
- School of Mechanical, Medical and Process Engineering; Centre for Biomedical Technologies, Queensland University of Technology, 60 Musk Avenue, Kelvin Grove, Queensland, 4001, AUSTRALIA
| | - Mia Woodruff
- School of Mechanical, Medical and Process Engineering; Centre for Biomedical Technologies, Queensland University of Technology, 60 Musk Avenue, Brisbane, Queensland, 4001, AUSTRALIA
| | - Mark Colin Allenby
- School of Chemical Engineering, The University of Queensland, Andrew N. Liveris Building, St Lucia, Queensland, 4072, AUSTRALIA
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Cell alignment modulated by surface nano-topography - Roles of cell-matrix and cell-cell interactions. Acta Biomater 2022; 142:149-159. [PMID: 35124266 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2022.01.057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2021] [Revised: 01/19/2022] [Accepted: 01/31/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
The propensity of cells to align in particular directions is relevant to a number of areas, including tissue engineering and biohybrid robotics. Cell alignment is modulated through various extracellular conditions including surface topographies, mechanical cues from cell-matrix interactions, and cell-cell interactions. Understanding of these conditions provides guidance for desirable cellular structure constructions. In this study, we examine the roles of surface topographies and cell-cell interactions in inducing cell alignment. We employed wavy surface topographies at the nanometer scale as a model extracellular environment for cell culture. The results show that, within a certain range of wavelengths and amplitudes of the surface topographies, cell alignment is dependent on cell confluency. This dependence on both topology and confluency suggests interplay between cell-cell and cell-matrix interactions in inducing cell alignment. Images of sparsely distributed and confluent cells also demonstrated clear differences in the structures of their focal adhesion complexes. To understand this effect, we introduced anti-N-cadherin to cell culture to inhibit cell-cell interactions. The results show that, when anti-N-cadherin was applied, cells on wavy surfaces required greater confluency to achieve the same alignment compared to that in the absence of anti-N-cadherin. The understanding of the cell alignment mechanisms will be important in numerous potential applications such as scaffold design, tissue repair, and development of biohybrid robotic systems. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: Cell alignment plays a critical role in numerous biological functions. Advances in tissue engineering utilizes cell alignment to restore, maintain, or even replace different types of biological tissues. The clinical impact that tissue engineering has made is facilitated by advancements in the understanding of interactions between scaffolds, biological factors, and cells. This work further elucidates the role of cell-cell interactions in promoting the organization of biological tissues.
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Kim D, Shin M, Choi JH, Choi JW. Actuation-Augmented Biohybrid Robot by Hyaluronic Acid-Modified Au Nanoparticles in Muscle Bundles to Evaluate Drug Effects. ACS Sens 2022; 7:740-747. [PMID: 35138092 DOI: 10.1021/acssensors.1c02125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Biohybrid robots, which comprise soft materials with biological components, have the potential to sense, respond, and adapt to changing environmental loads dynamically. Instead of humans and other living things, biohybrid robots can be used in various fields such as drug screening and toxicity assessment. In the actuation part, however, since a muscle cell-based biohybrid robot is limited in that the driving force is weak, it is difficult to evaluate drug and toxicological effects by distinguishing changes in the biohybrid robot's motion. To overcome this limitation, we introduced hyaluronic acid-modified gold nanoparticles (HA-AuNPs) into a muscle bundle-based biohybrid robot that moves forward in response to electrical stimulation. To enhance the actuation of muscle bundles, HA-AuNPs were embedded into the muscle bundles. The motion of the fabricated biohybrid robot was improved due to the enhanced differentiation and the improved electrical conductivity of muscle bundles by HA-AuNPs. In addition, the fabricated biohybrid robot exhibited huge changes in motion with respect to the addition of positive and negative inotropic drugs. The proposed biohybrid robot has the potential for neuromuscular disease drug screening by incorporating nervous tissues such as motor neuron organoids and brain organoids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dongyeon Kim
- Department of Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering, Sogang University, 35 Baekbeom-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul 04107, Republic of Korea
| | - Minkyu Shin
- Department of Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering, Sogang University, 35 Baekbeom-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul 04107, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin-Ha Choi
- School of Chemical Engineering, Jeonbuk National University, 567 Baekje-daero, Deokjin-gu, Jeonju-si, Jeollabuk-do 54896, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeong-Woo Choi
- Department of Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering, Sogang University, 35 Baekbeom-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul 04107, Republic of Korea
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Ramos‐Sebastian A, Gwak S, Kim SH. Multimodal Locomotion and Active Targeted Thermal Control of Magnetic Agents for Biomedical Applications. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2022; 9:e2103863. [PMID: 35060366 PMCID: PMC8895130 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202103863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2021] [Revised: 12/07/2021] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Magnetic microrobots can be miniaturized to a nanometric scale owing to their wireless actuation, thereby rendering them ideal for numerous biomedical applications. As a result, nowadays, there exist several mechano-electromagnetic systems for their actuation. However, magnetic actuation is not sufficient for implementation in biomedical applications, and further functionalities such as imaging and heating are required. This study proposes a multimodal electromagnetic system comprised of three pairs of Helmholtz coils, a pair of Maxwell coils, and a high-frequency solenoid to realize multimodal locomotion and heating control of magnetic microrobots. The system produces different configurations of magnetic fields that can generate magnetic forces and torques for the multimodal locomotion of magnetic microrobots, as well as generate magnetic traps that can control the locomotion of magnetic swarms. Furthermore, these magnetic fields are employed to control the magnetization of magnetic nanoparticles, affecting their magnetic relaxation mechanisms and diminishing their thermal properties. Thus, the system enables the control of the temperature increase of soft-magnetic materials and selective heating of magnetic microrobots at different positions, while suppressing the heating properties of magnetic nanoparticles located at undesired areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Armando Ramos‐Sebastian
- Department of Electronics Convergence EngineeringWonkwang UniversityIksan54538Republic of Korea
- Present address:
Department of Convergence Technology EngineeringJeonbuk National UniversityJeonju54896Republic of Korea
| | - So‐Jung Gwak
- Department of Chemical EngineeringWonkwang UniversityIksan54538Republic of Korea
| | - Sung Hoon Kim
- Department of Electronics Convergence EngineeringWonkwang UniversityIksan54538Republic of Korea
- Wonkwang Institute of Materials Science and TechnologyWonkwang UniversityIksan54538Republic of Korea
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56
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Li J, Dekanovsky L, Khezri B, Wu B, Zhou H, Sofer Z. Biohybrid Micro- and Nanorobots for Intelligent Drug Delivery. CYBORG AND BIONIC SYSTEMS 2022; 2022:9824057. [PMID: 36285309 PMCID: PMC9494704 DOI: 10.34133/2022/9824057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2021] [Accepted: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 08/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Biohybrid micro- and nanorobots are integrated tiny machines from biological components and artificial components. They can possess the advantages of onboard actuation, sensing, control, and implementation of multiple medical tasks such as targeted drug delivery, single-cell manipulation, and cell microsurgery. This review paper is to give an overview of biohybrid micro- and nanorobots for smart drug delivery applications. First, a wide range of biohybrid micro- and nanorobots comprising different biological components are reviewed in detail. Subsequently, the applications of biohybrid micro- and nanorobots for active drug delivery are introduced to demonstrate how such biohybrid micro- and nanorobots are being exploited in the field of medicine and healthcare. Lastly, key challenges to be overcome are discussed to pave the way for the clinical translation and application of the biohybrid micro- and nanorobots.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinhua Li
- School of Medical Technology, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China
- Department of Inorganic Chemistry, University of Chemistry and Technology Prague, Technicka 5, 166 28 Prague 6, Czech Republic
| | - Lukas Dekanovsky
- Department of Inorganic Chemistry, University of Chemistry and Technology Prague, Technicka 5, 166 28 Prague 6, Czech Republic
| | - Bahareh Khezri
- Department of Inorganic Chemistry, University of Chemistry and Technology Prague, Technicka 5, 166 28 Prague 6, Czech Republic
| | - Bing Wu
- Department of Inorganic Chemistry, University of Chemistry and Technology Prague, Technicka 5, 166 28 Prague 6, Czech Republic
| | - Huaijuan Zhou
- Department of Inorganic Chemistry, University of Chemistry and Technology Prague, Technicka 5, 166 28 Prague 6, Czech Republic
| | - Zdenek Sofer
- Department of Inorganic Chemistry, University of Chemistry and Technology Prague, Technicka 5, 166 28 Prague 6, Czech Republic
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57
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Clark KB. Smart Device-Driven Corticolimbic Plasticity in Cognitive-Emotional Restructuring of Space-Related Neuropsychiatric Disease and Injury. Life (Basel) 2022; 12:236. [PMID: 35207523 PMCID: PMC8875345 DOI: 10.3390/life12020236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2021] [Revised: 01/27/2022] [Accepted: 02/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Escalating government and commercial efforts to plan and deploy viable manned near-to-deep solar system exploration and habitation over the coming decades now drives next-generation space medicine innovations. The application of cutting-edge precision medicine, such as brain stimulation techniques, provides powerful clinical and field/flight situation methods to selectively control vagal tone and neuroendocrine-modulated corticolimbic plasticity, which is affected by prolonged cosmic radiation exposure, social isolation or crowding, and weightlessness in constricted operational non-terran locales. Earth-based clinical research demonstrates that brain stimulation approaches may be combined with novel psychotherapeutic integrated memory structure rationales for the corrective reconsolidation of arousing or emotional experiences, autobiographical memories, semantic schema, and other cognitive structures to enhance neuropsychiatric patient outcomes. Such smart cotherapies or countermeasures, which exploit natural, pharmaceutical, and minimally invasive neuroprosthesis-driven nervous system activity, may optimize the cognitive-emotional restructuring of astronauts suffering from space-related neuropsychiatric disease and injury, including mood, affect, and anxiety symptoms of any potential severity and pathophysiology. An appreciation of improved neuropsychiatric healthcare through the merging of new or rediscovered smart theragnostic medical technologies, capable of rendering personalized neuroplasticity training and managed psychotherapeutic treatment protocols, will reveal deeper insights into the illness states experienced by astronauts. Future work in this area should emphasize the ethical role of telemedicine and/or digital clinicians to advance the (semi)autonomous, technology-assisted medical prophylaxis, diagnosis, treatment, monitoring, and compliance of astronauts for elevated health, safety, and performance in remote extreme space and extraterrestrial environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin B. Clark
- Felidae Conservation Fund, Mill Valley, CA 94941, USA;
- Cures Within Reach, Chicago, IL 60602, USA
- Domain and Campus Champions Program, NSF Extreme Science and Engineering Discovery Environment (XSEDE), National Center for Supercomputing Applications, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
- Multi-Omics and Systems Biology Analysis Working Group, NASA GeneLab, NASA Ames Research Center, Mountain View, CA 94035, USA
- SETI Institute, Mountain View, CA 94043, USA
- NASA NfoLD, NASA Astrobiology Program, NASA Ames Research Center, Mountain View, CA 94035, USA
- Universities Space Research Association, Columbia, MD 21046, USA
- Expert Network, Penn Center for Innovation, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
- Peace Innovation Institute, The Hague 2511, Netherlands and Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA 94305, USA
- Shared Interest Group for Natural and Artificial Intelligence (sigNAI), Max Planck Alumni Association, 14057 Berlin, Germany
- Nanotechnology and Biometrics Councils, Institute for Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), New York, NY 10016-5997, USA
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58
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Wang Z, Xu Z, Zhu B, Zhang Y, Lin J, Wu Y, Wu D. Design, fabrication and application of magnetically actuated micro/nanorobots: a review. NANOTECHNOLOGY 2022; 33:152001. [PMID: 34915458 DOI: 10.1088/1361-6528/ac43e6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2021] [Accepted: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Magnetically actuated micro/nanorobots are typical micro- and nanoscale artificial devices with favorable attributes of quick response, remote and contactless control, harmless human-machine interaction and high economic efficiency. Under external magnetic actuation strategies, they are capable of achieving elaborate manipulation and navigation in extreme biomedical environments. This review focuses on state-of-the-art progresses in design strategies, fabrication techniques and applications of magnetically actuated micro/nanorobots. Firstly, recent advances of various robot designs, including helical robots, surface walkers, ciliary robots, scaffold robots and biohybrid robots, are discussed separately. Secondly, the main progresses of common fabrication techniques are respectively introduced, and application achievements on these robots in targeted drug delivery, minimally invasive surgery and cell manipulation are also presented. Finally, a short summary is made, and the current challenges and future work for magnetically actuated micro/nanorobots are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhongbao Wang
- Department of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361005, People's Republic of China
- Shenzhen Research Institute of Xiamen University, Shenzhen, 518057, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhenjin Xu
- Department of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361005, People's Republic of China
- Shenzhen Research Institute of Xiamen University, Shenzhen, 518057, People's Republic of China
| | - Bin Zhu
- Department of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361005, People's Republic of China
- Shenzhen Research Institute of Xiamen University, Shenzhen, 518057, People's Republic of China
| | - Yang Zhang
- Department of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361005, People's Republic of China
- Shenzhen Research Institute of Xiamen University, Shenzhen, 518057, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiawei Lin
- Department of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361005, People's Republic of China
- Shenzhen Research Institute of Xiamen University, Shenzhen, 518057, People's Republic of China
| | - Yigen Wu
- Department of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361005, People's Republic of China
- Shenzhen Research Institute of Xiamen University, Shenzhen, 518057, People's Republic of China
| | - Dezhi Wu
- Department of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361005, People's Republic of China
- Shenzhen Research Institute of Xiamen University, Shenzhen, 518057, People's Republic of China
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59
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Yan M, Liang K, Zhao D, Kong B. Core-Shell Structured Micro-Nanomotors: Construction, Shell Functionalization, Applications, and Perspectives. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2022; 18:e2102887. [PMID: 34611979 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202102887] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2021] [Revised: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
The successful integration of well-designed micro-nanomotors (MNMs) with diverse functional systems, such as, living systems, remote actuation systems, intelligent sensors, and sensing systems, offers many opportunities to not only endow them with diverse functionalization interfaces but also bring augmented or new properties in a wide variety of applications. Core-shell structured MNM systems have been considered to play an important role in a wide range of applications as they provide a platform to integrate multiple complementary components via decoration, encapsulation, or functionalization into a single functional system, being able to protect the active species from harsh environments, and bring improved propulsion performance, stability, non-toxicity, multi-functionality, and dispersibility, etc., which are not easily available from the isolated components. More importantly, the hetero-interfaces between individual components within a core-shell structure might give rise to boosted or new physiochemical properties. This review will bring together these key aspects of the core-shell structured MNMs, ranging from advanced protocols, enhanced/novel functionalities arising from diverse functional shells, to integrated core-shell structured MNMs for diverse applications. Finally, current challenges and future perspectives for the development of core-shell structured MNMs are discussed in term of synthesis, functions, propulsions, and applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miao Yan
- Department of Chemistry, Shanghai Key Lab of Molecular Catalysis and Innovative Materials, iChEM, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200438, P. R. China
| | - Kang Liang
- School of Chemical Engineering, Graduate School of Biomedical Engineering, Australian Centre for NanoMedicine, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, 2052, Australia
| | - Dongyuan Zhao
- Department of Chemistry, Shanghai Key Lab of Molecular Catalysis and Innovative Materials, iChEM, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200438, P. R. China
| | - Biao Kong
- Department of Chemistry, Shanghai Key Lab of Molecular Catalysis and Innovative Materials, iChEM, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200438, P. R. China
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Higueras-Ruiz DR, Nishikawa K, Feigenbaum H, Shafer M. What is an artificial muscle? A comparison of soft actuators to biological muscles. BIOINSPIRATION & BIOMIMETICS 2021; 17:011001. [PMID: 34792040 DOI: 10.1088/1748-3190/ac3adf] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2021] [Accepted: 11/16/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Interest in emulating the properties of biological muscles that allow for fast adaptability and control in unstructured environments has motivated researchers to develop new soft actuators, often referred to as 'artificial muscles'. The field of soft robotics is evolving rapidly as new soft actuator designs are published every year. In parallel, recent studies have also provided new insights for understanding biological muscles as 'active' materials whose tunable properties allow them to adapt rapidly to external perturbations. This work presents a comparative study of biological muscles and soft actuators, focusing on those properties that make biological muscles highly adaptable systems. In doing so, we briefly review the latest soft actuation technologies, their actuation mechanisms, and advantages and disadvantages from an operational perspective. Next, we review the latest advances in understanding biological muscles. This presents insight into muscle architecture, the actuation mechanism, and modeling, but more importantly, it provides an understanding of the properties that contribute to adaptability and control. Finally, we conduct a comparative study of biological muscles and soft actuators. Here, we present the accomplishments of each soft actuation technology, the remaining challenges, and future directions. Additionally, this comparative study contributes to providing further insight on soft robotic terms, such as biomimetic actuators, artificial muscles, and conceptualizing a higher level of performance actuator named artificial supermuscle. In conclusion, while soft actuators often have performance metrics such as specific power, efficiency, response time, and others similar to those in muscles, significant challenges remain when finding suitable substitutes for biological muscles, in terms of other factors such as control strategies, onboard energy integration, and thermoregulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diego R Higueras-Ruiz
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, AZ-86011, United States of America
| | - Kiisa Nishikawa
- Department of Biological Sciences, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, AZ-86011, United States of America
| | - Heidi Feigenbaum
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, AZ-86011, United States of America
| | - Michael Shafer
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, AZ-86011, United States of America
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Rajewicz W, Romano D, Varughese JC, Vuuren GJV, Campo A, Thenius R, Schmickl T. Freshwater organisms potentially useful as biosensors and power-generation mediators in biohybrid robotics. BIOLOGICAL CYBERNETICS 2021; 115:615-628. [PMID: 34812929 PMCID: PMC8642376 DOI: 10.1007/s00422-021-00902-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2021] [Accepted: 09/29/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Facing the threat of rapidly worsening water quality, there is an urgent need to develop novel approaches of monitoring its global supplies and early detection of environmental fluctuations. Global warming, urban growth and other factors have threatened not only the freshwater supply but also the well-being of many species inhabiting it. Traditionally, laboratory-based studies can be both time and money consuming and so, the development of a real-time, continuous monitoring method has proven necessary. The use of autonomous, self-actualizing entities became an efficient way of monitoring the environment. The Microbial Fuel Cells (MFC) will be investigated as an alternative energy source to allow for these entities to self-actualize. This concept has been improved with the use of various lifeforms in the role of biosensors in a structure called "biohybrid" which we aim to develop further within the framework of project Robocoenosis relying on animal-robot interaction. We introduce a novel concept of a fully autonomous biohybrid agent with various lifeforms in the role of biosensors. Herein, we identify most promising organisms in the context of underwater robotics, among others Dreissena polymorpha, Anodonta cygnaea, Daphnia sp. and various algae. Special focus is placed on the "ecosystem hacking" based on their interaction with the electronic parts. This project uses Austrian lakes of various trophic levels (Millstättersee, Hallstättersee and Neusiedlersee) as case studies and as a "proof of concept".
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Affiliation(s)
- Wiktoria Rajewicz
- 649 Institute of Biology, Graz, 8010, Austria.
- University of Graz, Graz, Austria.
| | - Donato Romano
- The BioRobotics Institute, Sant'Anna School of Advanced Studies, Viale Rinaldo Piaggio 34, Pontedera, Pisa, 56025, Italy
- Department of Excellence in Robotics and AI, Sant'Anna School of Advanced Studies, Pisa, 56127, Italy
| | | | | | - Alexandre Campo
- Unit of Social Ecology, Universit é Libre de Bruxelles, Campus Plaine, Boulevard duTriomphe, CP 231, 1050, Bruxelles, Belgium
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Biohybrid microswimmers against bacterial infections. Acta Biomater 2021; 136:99-110. [PMID: 34601106 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2021.09.048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2021] [Revised: 09/21/2021] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Biohybrid microswimmers exploit the natural abilities of motile microorganisms e.g. in releasing cargo on-demand. However, using such engineered swarms to release antibiotics addressing bacterial infections has not yet been realized. Herein, a design strategy for biohybrid microswimmers is reported, which features the covalent attachment of antibiotics with a photo-cleavable linker to the algae Chlamydomonas reinhardtii via two synthetic steps. This surface engineering does not rely on genetic manipulations, proceeds with high efficiency, and retains the viability or phototaxis of microalgae. Two different antibiotics have been separately utilized, which result in activity against both gram-positive and gram-negative strains. Guiding the biohybrid microswimmers by an external beacon, and on-demand delivery of the drugs by light with high spatial and temporal control, allowed for strong inhibition of bacterial growth. This efficient strategy could potentially allow for the selective treatment of bacterial infections by engineered algal microrobots with high precision in space and time. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: Biological swimmers with innate sensing and actuation capabilities and integrated components have been widely investigated to create autonomous microsystems. The use of natural swimmers as cargo delivery systems presents an alternative strategy to transport therapeutics to the required locations with the difficult access by traditional strategies. Although the transfer of various therapeutic cargo has shown promising results, the utilization of microswimmers for the delivery of antimicrobials was barely covered. Therefore, we present biohybrid microalga-powered swimmers designed and engineered to carry antibiotic cargo against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. Guided by an external beacon, these microhybrids deliver the antibiotic payload to the site of bacterial infection, with high spatial and temporal precision, released on-demand by an external trigger to inhibit bacterial growth.
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Abstract
Electro-responsive actuators (ERAs) hold great promise for cutting-edge applications in e-skins, soft robots, unmanned flight, and in vivo surgery devices due to the advantages of fast response, precise control, programmable deformation, and the ease of integration with control circuits. Recently, considering the excellent physical/chemical/mechanical properties (e.g., high carrier mobility, strong mechanical strength, outstanding thermal conductivity, high specific surface area, flexibility, and transparency), graphene and its derivatives have emerged as an appealing material in developing ERAs. In this review, we have summarized the recent advances in graphene-based ERAs. Typical the working mechanisms of graphene ERAs have been introduced. Design principles and working performance of three typical types of graphene ERAs (e.g., electrostatic actuators, electrothermal actuators, and ionic actuators) have been comprehensively summarized. Besides, emerging applications of graphene ERAs, including artificial muscles, bionic robots, human-soft actuators interaction, and other smart devices, have been reviewed. At last, the current challenges and future perspectives of graphene ERAs are discussed.
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64
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Guo M, Li Q, Gao B, He B. One-step 3D printed intelligent silk fibroin artificial skin with built-in electronics and microfluidics. Analyst 2021; 146:5934-5941. [PMID: 34570843 DOI: 10.1039/d1an01257f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
The rapid fabrication of artificial skin patches with multiple functions has attracted great attention in various research fields, such as personal health monitoring, tissue engineering and robotics. Intertwined-network structures (blood vessel, lymphatic and nerve networks) play a key role in endowing skin with multiple functions. Thus, considerable efforts have been devoted to fabricating artificial skin patches with mimetic internal channels. Here, we present a one-step 3D printed intelligent silk fibroin artificial skin (i-skin) with built-in electronics and microfluidics. By simultaneously extruding functional materials in polyurethane-silk fibroin precursor using a 3D bioprinter, the i-skin and its internal channels can be fabricated within one step. Photonic crystals (PCs) were integrated into the microfluidic channel, enabling the i-skin to sense multiple biomarkers. Moreover, the printed electronics give the i-skin remarkable conductivity, endowing the i-skin with the capability of sensitive motion sensing. Notably, by using the built-in electronics and PC-integrated microfluidics, sensitive sensing of motions and specific cardiac biomarkers can be achieved simultaneously in the i-skin, indicating the remarkable prospects of the printed multi-functional i-skin in health care-related biomedical fields.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maoze Guo
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing 211816, China.
| | - Qian Li
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing 211816, China.
| | - Bingbing Gao
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing 211816, China.
| | - Bingfang He
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing 211816, China.
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65
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Liu C, Li B, Li Z, Cao C, Gao X, Zhang K, Chen H. 3D printable and fringe electric field adhesion enabled variable stiffness artificial muscles for semi-active vibration attenuation. SOFT MATTER 2021; 17:6697-6706. [PMID: 34132322 DOI: 10.1039/d1sm00618e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Soft robots are able to generate large and compliant deformation in an unconstructed environment, but their operation capability is limited by low stiffness. Thus, developing the function of variable stiffness while preserving its compliance is a challenging issue. This study proposes a new variable stiffness artificial muscle, as a complementary component for soft robots, using the principle of fringe electric field adhesion. Taking inspiration from the mechanism of multi-layer structures in biological muscles, the artificial muscle is composed of patterned conductive layers and interlayers and is 3D printable by direct ink writing (DIW). To further demonstrate the application, a vibration absorber by stacking this artificial muscle is proposed, whose natural frequency is tunable by the varying stiffness. The advantages of the fringe electric field-enabled variable stiffness (FEVS) artificial muscles include lightweight and irrelevance of the stiffness to the thickness of the interlayer, which can be beneficial to soft robots to achieve variable stiffness and semi-active vibration attenuation without extra weighting load.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Liu
- Centre for Advanced Robotics (ARQ), Queen Mary University of London, London E1 4NS, UK.
| | - Bo Li
- State Key Lab of Manufacturing Systems Engineering, Shaanxi Key Lab of Intelligent Robots, School of Mechanical Engineering, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710049, P. R. China.
| | - Zhuoyuan Li
- State Key Lab of Manufacturing Systems Engineering, Shaanxi Key Lab of Intelligent Robots, School of Mechanical Engineering, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710049, P. R. China.
| | - Chongjing Cao
- Research Centre for Medical Robotics and Minimally Invasive Surgical Devices, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology (SIAT), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen 518055, P. R. China
| | - Xing Gao
- Research Centre for Medical Robotics and Minimally Invasive Surgical Devices, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology (SIAT), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen 518055, P. R. China
| | - Ketao Zhang
- Centre for Advanced Robotics (ARQ), Queen Mary University of London, London E1 4NS, UK.
| | - Hualing Chen
- State Key Lab of Manufacturing Systems Engineering, Shaanxi Key Lab of Intelligent Robots, School of Mechanical Engineering, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710049, P. R. China.
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66
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Dong X, Kheiri S, Lu Y, Xu Z, Zhen M, Liu X. Toward a living soft microrobot through optogenetic locomotion control of Caenorhabditis elegans. Sci Robot 2021; 6:6/55/eabe3950. [PMID: 34193562 DOI: 10.1126/scirobotics.abe3950] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2020] [Accepted: 06/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Learning from the locomotion of natural organisms is one of the most effective strategies for designing microrobots. However, the development of bioinspired microrobots is still challenging because of technical bottlenecks such as design and seamless integration of high-performance actuation mechanism and high-density energy source for untethered locomotion. Directly harnessing the activation energy and intelligence of living tissues in synthetic micromachines provides an alternative route to developing biohybrid microrobots. Here, we propose an approach to engineering the genetic and nervous systems of a nematode worm, Caenorhabditis elegans, and creating an untethered, highly controllable living soft microrobot (called "RoboWorm"). A living worm is engineered through optogenetic and biochemical methods to shut down the signal transmissions between its neuronal and muscular systems while its muscle cells still remain optically excitable. Through dynamic modeling and experimental verification of the worm crawling, we found that the phase difference between the worm body curvature and the muscular activation pattern generates the thrust force for crawling locomotion. By reproducing the phase difference via optogenetic excitation of the worm body muscles, we emulated the major worm crawling behaviors in a controllable manner. Furthermore, with real-time visual feedback of the worm crawling, we realized closed-loop regulation of the movement direction and destination of single worms. This technology may facilitate scientific studies on the biophysics and neural basis of crawling locomotion of C. elegans and other nematode species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xianke Dong
- Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, University of Toronto, 5 King's College Road, Toronto, Ontario M5S 3G8, Canada.,Department of Mechanical Engineering, McGill University, 817 Sherbrooke Street West, Montreal, Quebec H3A 2K6, Canada
| | - Sina Kheiri
- Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, University of Toronto, 5 King's College Road, Toronto, Ontario M5S 3G8, Canada
| | - Yangning Lu
- Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, 600 University Avenue, Room 870, Toronto, Ontario M5G 1X5, Canada.,Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, 1 King's College Circle, Toronto, Ontario M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Zhaoyi Xu
- Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, University of Toronto, 5 King's College Road, Toronto, Ontario M5S 3G8, Canada
| | - Mei Zhen
- Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, 600 University Avenue, Room 870, Toronto, Ontario M5G 1X5, Canada.,Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, 1 King's College Circle, Toronto, Ontario M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Xinyu Liu
- Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, University of Toronto, 5 King's College Road, Toronto, Ontario M5S 3G8, Canada. .,Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, 164 College Street, Toronto, Ontario M5S 3G9, Canada
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67
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Engineering Active Micro and Nanomotors. MICROMACHINES 2021; 12:mi12060687. [PMID: 34208386 PMCID: PMC8231110 DOI: 10.3390/mi12060687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2021] [Revised: 06/03/2021] [Accepted: 06/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Micro- and nanomotors (MNMs) are micro/nanoparticles that can perform autonomous motion in complex fluids driven by different power sources. They have been attracting increasing attention due to their great potential in a variety of applications ranging from environmental science to biomedical engineering. Over the past decades, this field has evolved rapidly, with many significant innovations contributed by global researchers. In this review, we first briefly overview the methods used to propel motors and then present the main strategies used to design proper MNMs. Next, we highlight recent fascinating applications of MNMs in two examplary fields, water remediation and biomedical microrobots, and conclude this review with a brief discussion of challenges in the field.
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68
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Burgos-Morales O, Gueye M, Lacombe L, Nowak C, Schmachtenberg R, Hörner M, Jerez-Longres C, Mohsenin H, Wagner H, Weber W. Synthetic biology as driver for the biologization of materials sciences. Mater Today Bio 2021; 11:100115. [PMID: 34195591 PMCID: PMC8237365 DOI: 10.1016/j.mtbio.2021.100115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2021] [Revised: 05/16/2021] [Accepted: 05/18/2021] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Materials in nature have fascinating properties that serve as a continuous source of inspiration for materials scientists. Accordingly, bio-mimetic and bio-inspired approaches have yielded remarkable structural and functional materials for a plethora of applications. Despite these advances, many properties of natural materials remain challenging or yet impossible to incorporate into synthetic materials. Natural materials are produced by living cells, which sense and process environmental cues and conditions by means of signaling and genetic programs, thereby controlling the biosynthesis, remodeling, functionalization, or degradation of the natural material. In this context, synthetic biology offers unique opportunities in materials sciences by providing direct access to the rational engineering of how a cell senses and processes environmental information and translates them into the properties and functions of materials. Here, we identify and review two main directions by which synthetic biology can be harnessed to provide new impulses for the biologization of the materials sciences: first, the engineering of cells to produce precursors for the subsequent synthesis of materials. This includes materials that are otherwise produced from petrochemical resources, but also materials where the bio-produced substances contribute unique properties and functions not existing in traditional materials. Second, engineered living materials that are formed or assembled by cells or in which cells contribute specific functions while remaining an integral part of the living composite material. We finally provide a perspective of future scientific directions of this promising area of research and discuss science policy that would be required to support research and development in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- O. Burgos-Morales
- École Supérieure de Biotechnologie de Strasbourg - ESBS, University of Strasbourg, Illkirch, 67412, France
- Faculty of Biology, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, 79104, Germany
| | - M. Gueye
- École Supérieure de Biotechnologie de Strasbourg - ESBS, University of Strasbourg, Illkirch, 67412, France
| | - L. Lacombe
- École Supérieure de Biotechnologie de Strasbourg - ESBS, University of Strasbourg, Illkirch, 67412, France
| | - C. Nowak
- École Supérieure de Biotechnologie de Strasbourg - ESBS, University of Strasbourg, Illkirch, 67412, France
- Faculty of Biology, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, 79104, Germany
| | - R. Schmachtenberg
- École Supérieure de Biotechnologie de Strasbourg - ESBS, University of Strasbourg, Illkirch, 67412, France
- Faculty of Biology, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, 79104, Germany
| | - M. Hörner
- Faculty of Biology, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, 79104, Germany
- Signalling Research Centres BIOSS and CIBSS, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, 79104, Germany
| | - C. Jerez-Longres
- Faculty of Biology, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, 79104, Germany
- Signalling Research Centres BIOSS and CIBSS, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, 79104, Germany
- Spemann Graduate School of Biology and Medicine - SGBM, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, 79104, Germany
| | - H. Mohsenin
- Faculty of Biology, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, 79104, Germany
- Signalling Research Centres BIOSS and CIBSS, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, 79104, Germany
| | - H.J. Wagner
- Faculty of Biology, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, 79104, Germany
- Signalling Research Centres BIOSS and CIBSS, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, 79104, Germany
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering - D-BSSE, ETH Zurich, Basel, 4058, Switzerland
| | - W. Weber
- Faculty of Biology, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, 79104, Germany
- Signalling Research Centres BIOSS and CIBSS, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, 79104, Germany
- Spemann Graduate School of Biology and Medicine - SGBM, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, 79104, Germany
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69
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Abstract
Abstract
In the past few decades, robotics research has witnessed an increasingly high interest in miniaturized, intelligent, and integrated robots. The imperative component of a robot is the actuator that determines its performance. Although traditional rigid drives such as motors and gas engines have shown great prevalence in most macroscale circumstances, the reduction of these drives to the millimeter or even lower scale results in a significant increase in manufacturing difficulty accompanied by a remarkable performance decline. Biohybrid robots driven by living cells can be a potential solution to overcome these drawbacks by benefiting from the intrinsic microscale self-assembly of living tissues and high energy efficiency, which, among other unprecedented properties, also feature flexibility, self-repair, and even multiple degrees of freedom. This paper systematically reviews the development of biohybrid robots. First, the development of biological flexible drivers is introduced while emphasizing on their advantages over traditional drivers. Second, up-to-date works regarding biohybrid robots are reviewed in detail from three aspects: biological driving sources, actuator materials, and structures with associated control methodologies. Finally, the potential future applications and major challenges of biohybrid robots are explored.
Graphic abstract
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70
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Sun W, Schaffer S, Dai K, Yao L, Feinberg A, Webster-Wood V. 3D Printing Hydrogel-Based Soft and Biohybrid Actuators: A Mini-Review on Fabrication Techniques, Applications, and Challenges. Front Robot AI 2021; 8:673533. [PMID: 33996931 PMCID: PMC8117231 DOI: 10.3389/frobt.2021.673533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2021] [Accepted: 04/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Stimuli-responsive hydrogels are candidate building blocks for soft robotic applications due to many of their unique properties, including tunable mechanical properties and biocompatibility. Over the past decade, there has been significant progress in developing soft and biohybrid actuators using naturally occurring and synthetic hydrogels to address the increasing demands for machines capable of interacting with fragile biological systems. Recent advancements in three-dimensional (3D) printing technology, either as a standalone manufacturing process or integrated with traditional fabrication techniques, have enabled the development of hydrogel-based actuators with on-demand geometry and actuation modalities. This mini-review surveys existing research efforts to inspire the development of novel fabrication techniques using hydrogel building blocks and identify potential future directions. In this article, existing 3D fabrication techniques for hydrogel actuators are first examined. Next, existing actuation mechanisms, including pneumatic, hydraulic, ionic, dehydration-rehydration, and cell-powered actuation, are reviewed with their benefits and limitations discussed. Subsequently, the applications of hydrogel-based actuators, including compliant handling of fragile items, micro-swimmers, wearable devices, and origami structures, are described. Finally, challenges in fabricating functional actuators using existing techniques are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenhuan Sun
- Biohybrid and Organic Robotics Group, Department of Mechancial Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Saul Schaffer
- Biohybrid and Organic Robotics Group, Department of Mechancial Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Kevin Dai
- Biohybrid and Organic Robotics Group, Department of Mechancial Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Lining Yao
- Morphing Matter Lab, Human-Computer Interaction Institute, School of Computer Science, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Adam Feinberg
- Regenerative Biomaterials and Therapeutics Group, Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Victoria Webster-Wood
- Biohybrid and Organic Robotics Group, Department of Mechancial Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
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71
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Guix M, Mestre R, Patiño T, De Corato M, Fuentes J, Zarpellon G, Sánchez S. Biohybrid soft robots with self-stimulating skeletons. Sci Robot 2021; 6:6/53/eabe7577. [PMID: 34043566 DOI: 10.1126/scirobotics.abe7577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2020] [Accepted: 03/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Bioinspired hybrid soft robots that combine living and synthetic components are an emerging field in the development of advanced actuators and other robotic platforms (i.e., swimmers, crawlers, and walkers). The integration of biological components offers unique characteristics that artificial materials cannot precisely replicate, such as adaptability and response to external stimuli. Here, we present a skeletal muscle-based swimming biobot with a three-dimensional (3D)-printed serpentine spring skeleton that provides mechanical integrity and self-stimulation during the cell maturation process. The restoring force inherent to the spring system allows a dynamic skeleton compliance upon spontaneous muscle contraction, leading to a cyclic mechanical stimulation process that improves the muscle force output without external stimuli. Optimization of the 3D-printed skeletons is carried out by studying the geometrical stiffnesses of different designs via finite element analysis. Upon electrical actuation of the muscle tissue, two types of motion mechanisms are experimentally observed: directional swimming when the biobot is at the liquid-air interface and coasting motion when it is near the bottom surface. The integrated compliant skeleton provides both the mechanical self-stimulation and the required asymmetry for directional motion, displaying its maximum velocity at 5 hertz (800 micrometers per second, 3 body lengths per second). This skeletal muscle-based biohybrid swimmer attains speeds comparable with those of cardiac-based biohybrid robots and outperforms other muscle-based swimmers. The integration of serpentine-like structures in hybrid robotic systems allows self-stimulation processes that could lead to higher force outputs in current and future biomimetic robotic platforms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Guix
- Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), Baldiri-Reixac 10-12, 08028 Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Rafael Mestre
- Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), Baldiri-Reixac 10-12, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Tania Patiño
- Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), Baldiri-Reixac 10-12, 08028 Barcelona, Spain.,Chemistry Department, University of Rome, Tor Vergata, Via della Ricerca Scientifica, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Marco De Corato
- Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), Baldiri-Reixac 10-12, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Judith Fuentes
- Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), Baldiri-Reixac 10-12, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Giulia Zarpellon
- Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), Baldiri-Reixac 10-12, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Samuel Sánchez
- Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), Baldiri-Reixac 10-12, 08028 Barcelona, Spain. .,Institució Catalana de Recerca i Estudis Avançats (ICREA), Passeig de Lluís Companys 23, 08010 Barcelona, Spain
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72
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Wang H, York P, Chen Y, Russo S, Ranzani T, Walsh C, Wood RJ. Biologically inspired electrostatic artificial muscles for insect-sized robots. Int J Rob Res 2021. [DOI: 10.1177/02783649211002545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Millimeter-sized electrostatic film actuators, inspired by the efficient spatial arrangement of insect muscles, achieve a muscle-like power density (61 W kg−1) and enable robotic applications in which agility is needed in confined spaces. Like biological muscles, these actuators incorporate a hierarchical structure, in this case building from electrodes to arrays to laminates, and are composed primarily of flexible materials. So comprised, these actuators can be designed for a wide range of manipulation and locomotion tasks, similar to natural muscle, while being robust and compact. A typical actuator can achieve 85 mN of force with a 15 mm stroke, with a size of [Formula: see text] mm3 and mass of 92 mg. Two millimeter-sized robots, an ultra-thin earthworm-inspired robot and an intestinal-muscle-inspired endoscopic tool for tissue resection, demonstrate the utility of these actuators. The earthworm robot undertakes inspection tasks: the navigation of a 5 mm channel and a 19 mm square tube while carrying an on-board camera. The surgical tool, which conforms to the surface of the distal end of an endoscope, similar to the thin, smooth muscle that covers the intestine, completes tissue cutting and penetrating tasks. Beyond these devices, we anticipate widespread use of these actuators in soft robots, medical robots, wearable robots, and miniature autonomous systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongqiang Wang
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Biomimetic Robotics and Intelligent Systems, Department of Mechanical and Energy Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Human-Augmentation and Rehabilitation Robotics in Universities, Department of Mechanical and Energy Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, China
| | - Peter York
- John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Yufeng Chen
- Research Laboratory of Electronics, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Sheila Russo
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Tommaso Ranzani
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Conor Walsh
- John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Robert J. Wood
- John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
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73
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Wu B, Lu H, Le X, Lu W, Zhang J, Théato P, Chen T. Recent progress in the shape deformation of polymeric hydrogels from memory to actuation. Chem Sci 2021; 12:6472-6487. [PMID: 34040724 PMCID: PMC8132948 DOI: 10.1039/d0sc07106d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2020] [Accepted: 03/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Shape deformation hydrogels, which are one of the most promising and essential classes of stimuli-responsive polymers, could provide large-scale and reversible deformation under external stimuli. Due to their wet and soft properties, shape deformation hydrogels are anticipated to be a candidate for the exploration of biomimetic materials, and have shown various potential applications in many fields. Here, an overview of the mechanisms of shape deformation hydrogels and methods for their preparation is presented. Some innovative and efficient strategies to fabricate programmable deformation hydrogels are then introduced. Moreover, successful explorations of their potential applications, including information encryption, soft robots and bionomic systems, are discussed. Finally, remaining great challenges including the achievement of multiple stable deformation states and the combination of shape deformation and sensing are highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baoyi Wu
- Key Laboratory of Marine Materials and Related Technologies, Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Marine Materials and Protective Technologies, Ningbo Institute of Material Technology and Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences Ningbo 315201 China
- School of Chemical Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences 19A Yuquan Road Beijing 100049 China
| | - Huanhuan Lu
- Key Laboratory of Marine Materials and Related Technologies, Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Marine Materials and Protective Technologies, Ningbo Institute of Material Technology and Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences Ningbo 315201 China
- School of Chemical Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences 19A Yuquan Road Beijing 100049 China
| | - Xiaoxia Le
- Key Laboratory of Marine Materials and Related Technologies, Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Marine Materials and Protective Technologies, Ningbo Institute of Material Technology and Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences Ningbo 315201 China
- School of Chemical Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences 19A Yuquan Road Beijing 100049 China
| | - Wei Lu
- Key Laboratory of Marine Materials and Related Technologies, Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Marine Materials and Protective Technologies, Ningbo Institute of Material Technology and Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences Ningbo 315201 China
- School of Chemical Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences 19A Yuquan Road Beijing 100049 China
| | - Jiawei Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Marine Materials and Related Technologies, Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Marine Materials and Protective Technologies, Ningbo Institute of Material Technology and Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences Ningbo 315201 China
- School of Chemical Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences 19A Yuquan Road Beijing 100049 China
| | - Patrick Théato
- Soft Matter Synthesis Laboratory, Institute for Biological Interfaces IIII, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) Hermann-von-Helmholtz-Platz 1 D-76344 Eggenstein-Leopoldshafen Germany
- Institute for Chemical Technology and Polymer Chemistry, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) Enge Sser Str. 18 D-76131 Karlsruhe Germany
| | - Tao Chen
- Key Laboratory of Marine Materials and Related Technologies, Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Marine Materials and Protective Technologies, Ningbo Institute of Material Technology and Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences Ningbo 315201 China
- School of Chemical Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences 19A Yuquan Road Beijing 100049 China
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74
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Chen Y, Yang J, Zhang X, Feng Y, Zeng H, Wang L, Feng W. Light-driven bimorph soft actuators: design, fabrication, and properties. MATERIALS HORIZONS 2021; 8:728-757. [PMID: 34821314 DOI: 10.1039/d0mh01406k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
Soft robots that can move like living organisms and adapt to their surroundings are currently in the limelight from fundamental studies to technological applications, due to their advances in material flexibility, human-friendly interaction, and biological adaptation that surpass conventional rigid machines. Light-fueled smart actuators based on responsive soft materials are considered to be one of the most promising candidates to promote the field of untethered soft robotics, thereby attracting considerable attention amongst materials scientists and microroboticists to investigate photomechanics, photoswitch, bioinspired design, and actuation realization. In this review, we discuss the recent state-of-the-art advances in light-driven bimorph soft actuators, with the focus on bilayer strategy, i.e., integration between photoactive and passive layers within a single material system. Bilayer structures can endow soft actuators with unprecedented features such as ultrasensitivity, programmability, superior compatibility, robustness, and sophistication in controllability. We begin with an explanation about the working principle of bimorph soft actuators and introduction of a synthesis pathway toward light-responsive materials for soft robotics. Then, photothermal and photochemical bimorph soft actuators are sequentially introduced, with an emphasis on the design strategy, actuation performance, underlying mechanism, and emerging applications. Finally, this review is concluded with a perspective on the existing challenges and future opportunities in this nascent research Frontier.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanhao Chen
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300350, P. R. China.
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75
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Nie M, Huang C, Du X. Recent advances in colour-tunable soft actuators. NANOSCALE 2021; 13:2780-2791. [PMID: 33514972 DOI: 10.1039/d0nr07907c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
In nature, some creatures have the capability to change shapes to adapt to ever-changing environments, which greatly inspire researchers to develop soft actuators. To endow soft actuators with capabilities to interact with environment and integrate more feedbacks is of great significance. Colour-tunable soft actuators that provide colour change feedbacks have therefore attracted extensive attention. Based on either chemical-colour or structural-colour based materials, a variety of colour-tunable soft actuators enabling shape deformations (or locomotion) and colour changes have been prepared and hold promise for applications in soft robotics and biomedical devices. This review summarizes the recent advances of colour-tunable soft actuators, with emphasis on their colour-change mechanisms and highlighting their applications. Existing challenges and future perspectives on colour-tunable soft actuators are presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingzhe Nie
- Institute of Biomedical & Health Engineering, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology (SIAT), Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Shenzhen, 518055, China.
| | - Chao Huang
- Institute of Biomedical & Health Engineering, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology (SIAT), Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Shenzhen, 518055, China.
| | - Xuemin Du
- Institute of Biomedical & Health Engineering, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology (SIAT), Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Shenzhen, 518055, China.
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Gao L, Akhtar MU, Yang F, Ahmad S, He J, Lian Q, Cheng W, Zhang J, Li D. Recent progress in engineering functional biohybrid robots actuated by living cells. Acta Biomater 2021; 121:29-40. [PMID: 33285324 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2020.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2020] [Revised: 11/25/2020] [Accepted: 12/01/2020] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Living cells are highly scalable biological actuators found in nature, and they are efficient technological solutions to actuate robotic systems. Recent advancements in biofabrication and tissue engineering have bridged the gap to interface muscle cells with artificial technology. In this review, we summarize the recent progress in engineering the attributes of individual components for the development of fully functional biohybrid robots. First, we address the fabrication of biological actuators for biohybrid robots with muscle cells and tissues, including cardiomyocytes, skeletal muscles, insect tissues, and neuromuscular tissues, in well-organized pattern of 2D sheets and 3D constructs. Next, we discuss the performance of biohybrid robots for various biomimetic tasks such as swimming, walking, gripping, and pumping. Finally, the challenges and future directions in the development of biohybrid robots are described from different viewpoints of living material engineering, multiscale modeling, 3D printing for manufacturing, and multifunctional robotic system development.
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Rivera-Tarazona LK, Campbell ZT, Ware TH. Stimuli-responsive engineered living materials. SOFT MATTER 2021; 17:785-809. [PMID: 33410841 DOI: 10.1039/d0sm01905d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Stimuli-responsive materials are able to undergo controllable changes in materials properties in response to external cues. Increasing efforts have been directed towards building materials that mimic the responsive nature of biological systems. Nevertheless, limitations remain surrounding the way these synthetic materials interact and respond to their environment. In particular, it is difficult to synthesize synthetic materials that respond with specificity to poorly differentiated (bio)chemical and weak physical stimuli. The emerging area of engineered living materials (ELMs) includes composites that combine living cells and synthetic materials. ELMs have yielded promising advances in the creation of stimuli-responsive materials that respond with diverse outputs in response to a broad array of biochemical and physical stimuli. This review describes advances made in the genetic engineering of the living component and the processing-property relationships of stimuli-responsive ELMs. Finally, the implementation of stimuli-responsive ELMs as environmental sensors, biomedical sensors, drug delivery vehicles, and soft robots is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura K Rivera-Tarazona
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Texas A&M University, 101 Bizzell Street, College Station, TX 77843, USA.
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Wang B, Kostarelos K, Nelson BJ, Zhang L. Trends in Micro-/Nanorobotics: Materials Development, Actuation, Localization, and System Integration for Biomedical Applications. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2021; 33:e2002047. [PMID: 33617105 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202002047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 181] [Impact Index Per Article: 60.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2020] [Revised: 08/24/2020] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
Micro-/nanorobots (m-bots) have attracted significant interest due to their suitability for applications in biomedical engineering and environmental remediation. Particularly, their applications in in vivo diagnosis and intervention have been the focus of extensive research in recent years with various clinical imaging techniques being applied for localization and tracking. The successful integration of well-designed m-bots with surface functionalization, remote actuation systems, and imaging techniques becomes the crucial step toward biomedical applications, especially for the in vivo uses. This review thus addresses four different aspects of biomedical m-bots: design/fabrication, functionalization, actuation, and localization. The biomedical applications of the m-bots in diagnosis, sensing, microsurgery, targeted drug/cell delivery, thrombus ablation, and wound healing are reviewed from these viewpoints. The developed biomedical m-bot systems are comprehensively compared and evaluated based on their characteristics. The current challenges and the directions of future research in this field are summarized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ben Wang
- Department of Mechanical and Automation Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin N.T., Hong Kong, China
- College of Chemistry and Environmental Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518060, China
| | - Kostas Kostarelos
- Nanomedicine Lab, Faculty of Biology, Medicine & Health, The University of Manchester, AV Hill Building, Manchester, M13 9PT, UK
- Catalan Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (ICN2), Campus UAB, Bellaterra, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Bradley J Nelson
- Institute of Robotics and Intelligent Systems (IRIS), ETH Zurich, Tannenstrasse 3, Zurich, CH-8092, Switzerland
| | - Li Zhang
- Department of Mechanical and Automation Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin N.T., Hong Kong, China
- CUHK T Stone Robotics Institute, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin N.T., Hong Kong, China
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Srubar WV. Engineered Living Materials: Taxonomies and Emerging Trends. Trends Biotechnol 2020; 39:574-583. [PMID: 33234328 DOI: 10.1016/j.tibtech.2020.10.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2020] [Revised: 10/14/2020] [Accepted: 10/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
At the intersection of synthetic biology and materials science, the field of engineered living materials (ELMs) has evolved into a new, standalone discipline. The fusion of bioengineering's design-build-test-learn approaches with classical materials science has yielded breakthrough innovations in the synthesis of complex, biologically active materials for functional applications in therapeutics, electronics, construction, and beyond. However, the transdisciplinary nature of the ELM field - and its rapid growth - has made holistic comprehension of achievements related to the tools, techniques, and applications of ELMs difficult across disciplines. To this end, this review proposes an emergent taxonomy of ELM research and uses the categorization to discuss current trends and state-of-the-art advancements, significant opportunities, and imminent challenges for scientists and engineers in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wil V Srubar
- Department of Civil, Environmental, and Architectural Engineering, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, USA; Materials Science and Engineering Program, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, USA.
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Abstract
Living systems have evolved to survive in a wide range of environments and safely interact with other objects and organisms. Thus, living systems have been the source of inspiration for many researchers looking to apply their mechanics and unique characteristics in engineering robotics. Moving beyond bioinspiration, biohybrid actuators, with compliance and self-healing capabilities enabled by living cells or tissue interfaced with artificial structures, have drawn great interest as ways to address challenges in soft robotics, and in particular have seen success in small-scale robotic actuation. However, macro-scale biohybrid actuators beyond the centimeter scale currently face many practical obstacles. In this perspective, we discuss the challenges in scaling up biohybrid actuators and the path to realize large-scale biohybrid soft robotics.
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Nie M, Chen G, Zhao C, Gan J, Alip M, Zhao Y, Sun L. Bio-inspired adhesive porous particles with human MSCs encapsulation for systemic lupus erythematosus treatment. Bioact Mater 2020; 6:84-90. [PMID: 32817916 PMCID: PMC7419256 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioactmat.2020.07.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2020] [Revised: 07/26/2020] [Accepted: 07/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) therapy is a promising treatment for Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients. However, this method is encumbered by suboptimal phenotype of MSCs used in clinical settings, and a short in vivo persistence time. Herein, inspired by the natural microstructure of the sand tower worm nest, we proposed novel adhesive porous particles with human MSCs encapsulation via microfluidic electrospray technology for SLE treatment. The porous microparticles were formed by immediate gelation reaction between sodium alginate (ALG) and poly-d-lysine (PDL), and then sacrificed polyethylene oxide (PEO) to form the pores. The resultant microparticles could protect MSCs from immune cells while maintain their immune modulating functions, and achieve rapid exchange of nutrients from the body. In addition, owing to the electrostatic adsorption and covalent bonding between PDL and tissues, the porous microparticles could adhere to the bowel surfaces tightly after intraperitoneal injection. Through in vivo imaging system (IVIS) methods and in vivo study, it was demonstrated that the MSCs-encapsulated porous adhesive microparticles could significantly increase the cellular half-life, turn activated inflammatory macrophages into an anti-inflammatory profile, and ameliorate disease progression in MRL/lpr mice. Thus, the MSCs-encapsulated porous microparticles showed distinctive functions in chronic SLE treatment, with additional potential to be used in a variety of biomedical applications. We proposed novel adhesive porous particles with MSCs encapsulation. MSCs could turn activated inflammatory macrophages into an anti-inflammatory profile. The porous microparticles could adhere to bowel surfaces tightly through electrostatic adsorption and covalent bonding. MSCs-encapsulated porous adhesive microparticles could significantly ameliorate disease progression in MRL/lpr mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Nie
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, 210002, China
| | - Guopu Chen
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, 210002, China
| | - Cheng Zhao
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, 210002, China
| | - Jingjing Gan
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, 210002, China
| | - Mihribangvl Alip
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, 210002, China
| | - Yuanjin Zhao
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, 210002, China.,State Key Laboratory of Bioelectronics, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210096, China
| | - Lingyun Sun
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, 210002, China
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