We use cookies to understand how you use our site and to improve your experience. This includes personalizing content and advertising. To learn more, click here. By continuing to use our site, you accept our use of cookies. Cookie Policy.

Features Partner Sites Information LinkXpress
Sign In
Advertise with Us
PURITAN MEDICAL

Download Mobile App




Researchers Create Menagerie of Biocompatible Micromachines

By LabMedica International staff writers
Posted on 18 Feb 2019
Print article
Image: Researchers have developed microscopic, hydrogel-based muscles that can manipulate and mechanically stimulate biological tissue. These soft, biocompatible robots could be used for targeted therapy and to help diagnose and prevent disease (Photo courtesy of Nebahat Yenihayat, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne).
Image: Researchers have developed microscopic, hydrogel-based muscles that can manipulate and mechanically stimulate biological tissue. These soft, biocompatible robots could be used for targeted therapy and to help diagnose and prevent disease (Photo courtesy of Nebahat Yenihayat, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne).
A team of Swiss biotech engineers has demonstrated possible medical applications for biocompatible micromachines constructed from gold nanorods coated with a thermoresponsive polymer.

Investigators at École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (Switzerland) combined several advanced techniques including programmable colloidal self-assembly, light-harvesting with plasmonic nanotransducers, and in situ polymerization of compliant hydrogel mechanisms to build biologically inspired, soft microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) devices. These optomechanical microactuators were synthesized using a template-assisted microfluidic approach in which gold nanorods coated with a thermoresponsive polymer functioned as nanoscale building blocks.

The investigators reported in the February 4, 2019, online edition of the journal Lab on a Chip that near-infrared (NIR) laser illumination provided effective control over actuation of the resulting microactuators. These micromachines exhibited mechanical properties and performance characteristics that were comparable to those of bioengineered muscular constructs.

The investigators demonstrated the versatility of this approach by manufacturing a diverse array of microdevices including lever arms, continuum microrobots, and dexterous microgrippers.

"We wanted to create a modular system powered by the contraction of distributed actuators and the deformation of compliant mechanisms," said senior author Dr. Selman Sakar, an assistant professor in the institute of mechanical engineering at École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne.

Related Links:
École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne

Platinum Member
COVID-19 Rapid Test
OSOM COVID-19 Antigen Rapid Test
One Step HbA1c Measuring System
GREENCARE A1c
Anti-Cyclic Citrullinated Peptide Test
GPP-100 Anti-CCP Kit
New
Gold Member
Plasma Control
Plasma Control Level 1

Print article

Channels

Clinical Chemistry

view channel
Image: Reaching speeds up to 6,000 RPM, this centrifuge forms the basis for a new type of inexpensive, POC biomedical test (Photo courtesy of Duke University)

POC Biomedical Test Spins Water Droplet Using Sound Waves for Cancer Detection

Exosomes, tiny cellular bioparticles carrying a specific set of proteins, lipids, and genetic materials, play a crucial role in cell communication and hold promise for non-invasive diagnostics.... Read more

Molecular Diagnostics

view channel
Image: MOF materials efficiently enrich cfDNA and cfRNA in blood through simple operational process (Photo courtesy of Science China Press)

Blood Circulating Nucleic Acid Enrichment Technique Enables Non-Invasive Liver Cancer Diagnosis

The ability to diagnose diseases early can significantly enhance the effectiveness of clinical treatments and improve survival rates. One promising approach for non-invasive early diagnosis is the use... Read more

Hematology

view channel
Image: The low-cost portable device rapidly identifies chemotherapy patients at risk of sepsis (Photo courtesy of 52North Health)

POC Finger-Prick Blood Test Determines Risk of Neutropenic Sepsis in Patients Undergoing Chemotherapy

Neutropenia, a decrease in neutrophils (a type of white blood cell crucial for fighting infections), is a frequent side effect of certain cancer treatments. This condition elevates the risk of infections,... Read more

Pathology

view channel
Image: The OvaCis Rapid Test discriminates benign from malignant epithelial ovarian cysts (Photo courtesy of INEX)

Intra-Operative POC Device Distinguishes Between Benign and Malignant Ovarian Cysts within 15 Minutes

Ovarian cysts represent a significant health issue for women globally, with up to 10% experiencing this condition at some point in their lives. These cysts form when fluid collects within a thin membrane... Read more
Copyright © 2000-2024 Globetech Media. All rights reserved.