XenoBots

CREDIT GOES TO universityofvermont @ YOUTUBE

ACCORDING TO COPILOT:

These remarkable organisms are designed by computers to perform specific functions, and they’re assembled by combining different biological tissues. Here are the key details:

1. Composition:

   • Xenobots are composed of two primary types of cells: skin cells (providing rigid support) and heart muscle cells (acting as small motors).

   • These cells are derived from stem cells harvested from early frog embryos.

   • The shape and distribution of these cells are automatically designed in simulation to achieve specific tasks, using an evolutionary algorithm.

2. Functionality:

   • Xenobots can:

     • Walk, swim, and push pellets.

     • Carry payloads and aggregate debris into neat piles.

     • Self-replicate by gathering loose cells from their environment.

     • Heal themselves after lacerations.

   • They can survive for weeks without food, using energy stored in their tissue (fat and protein).

3. Applications:

   • Scientific Tool: Currently, xenobots help researchers understand how cells cooperate during morphogenesis (body development).

   • Eco-Friendly Robots: Xenobots are biodegradable and environmentally friendly. They don’t generate pollution or require external energy inputs.

   • Potential Future Applications: Imagine using xenobots for targeted drug delivery, environmental cleanup, or even medical procedures.