A microrobot with ultra deformable membrane and active core following an environmental stimuli and moving towards the stimuli through complex body tissue like environment
Microrobots hold transformative potential for medical solutions, enabling precise navigation and intervention within the human body. Inspired by white blood cells, we are developing ultra-deformable, untethered microrobots—termed celloids—designed to autonomously navigate soft tissues like environment by responding to local cues. These biohybrid microrobots feature a Giant Unilamellar Vesicle (GUV), filled with self-propelled Janus microparticles to drive amoeba-like deformation and collective dynamics. Alternatively, we are employing magnetic microrobots for controlled motion in tissue mimicking environments. Combining advanced microfabrication, novel microparticle design, image analysis, and simulations, our work provides a robophysical model for biomimetic cells, with potential applications as a drug administration agent
In CELLOIDS framework, I am responsible for generating the active core which involves fabrication of Janus microparticles. A brief over view of the fabrication method is available in my blog.
10 um Pt-Silica Janus microparticle
3 um Pt-Silica Janus microparticle
Particles movement in Hydrogen Peroxide solution: Tracked red trajectories of the particles (left) and Mean square displacement (right)