Investigating Tissue Mechanics in vitro Using Untethered Soft Robotic Microdevices

This paper presents the design, fabrication, and operation of a soft robotic compression device that is remotely powered by laser illumination. We combined the rapid and wireless response of hybrid nanomaterials with state-of-the-art microengineering techniques to develop machinery that can apply physiologically relevant mechanical loading. The passive hydrogel structures that constitute the compliant skeleton of the machines were fabricated using single-step in situ polymerization process and directly incorporated around the actuators without further assembly steps. Experimentally validated computational models guided the design of the compression mechanism. We incorporated a cantilever beam to the prototype for life-time monitoring of mechanical properties of cell clusters on optical microscopes. The mechanical and biochemical compatibility of the chosen materials with living cells together with the on-site manufacturing process enable seamless interfacing of soft robotic devices with biological specimen.

Automated summary

This research developed a soft robotic compression device that can be remotely powered by laser and apply physiologically relevant mechanical loading, using hybrid nanomaterials and microengineering techniques. The compliant skeleton of the machines was fabricated using a single-step in situ polymerization process and a cantilever beam was incorporated for monitoring mechanical properties. The chosen materials are compatible with living cells, allowing seamless interfacing with biological specimens.