Phototactic guidance of a tissue-engineered soft-robotic ray

Sung Jin Park, Mattia Gazzola, Kyung Soo Park, Shirley Park, Valentina Di Santo, Erin L. Blevins, Johan U. Lind, Patrick H. Campbell, Stephanie Dauth, Andrew K. Capulli, Francesco S. Pasqualini, Seungkuk Ahn, Alexander Cho, Hongyan Yuan, Ben M. Maoz, Ragu Vijaykumar, Jeong Woo Choi, Karl Deisseroth, George V. Lauder, L. MahadevanKevin Kit Parker

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

Inspired by the relatively simple morphological blueprint provided by batoid fish such as stingrays and skates, we created a biohybrid system that enables an artificial animal-a tissue-engineered ray-to swim and phototactically follow a light cue. By patterning dissociated rat cardiomyocytes on an elastomeric body enclosing a microfabricated gold skeleton, we replicated fish morphology at 1/10 scale and captured basic fin deflection patterns of batoid fish. Optogenetics allows for phototactic guidance, steering, and turning maneuvers. Optical stimulation induced sequential muscle activation via serpentinepatterned muscle circuits, leading to coordinated undulatory swimming. The speed and direction of the ray was controlled by modulating light frequency and by independently eliciting right and left fins, allowing the biohybrid machine to maneuver through an obstacle course.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)158-162
Number of pages5
JournalScience
Volume353
Issue number6295
DOIs
StatePublished - Jul 8 2016

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Phototactic guidance of a tissue-engineered soft-robotic ray'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this