Why is it in the News?

Scientists have created 'Anthrobots' , tiny living robots from human cells and the robots are able to move around in a lab dish and one day may be helpful in healing wounds or damaged tissue.

What is an Anthrobots?

• Anthrobots are self-assembling biological robots made from human tracheal cells, capable of movement and encouraging neuron growth.
• They can be created from adult human cells without genetic modifications, making them a potential patient-specific therapeutic tool.
• Anthrobots represent a significant advancement in regenerative medicine, potentially aiding in treating a variety of diseases and injuries.
• The multicellular robots, ranging in size from the width of a human hair to the point of a sharpened pencil, were made to self-assemble and shown to have a remarkable healing effect on other cells.
• The discovery is a starting point for the researchers’ vision to use patient-derived biobots as new therapeutic tools for regeneration, healing, and treatment of disease.

What are Tracheal cells?

• Tracheal cells come from the lining of the bronchi and trachea, forming the network of tubes that transport air to the lungs.
• These cells, a type of epithelial cell, are crucial for producing lubricating mucus to maintain the functionality of the airways.
• They are responsible for generating not only mucus but also various other compounds, all of which play a vital role in the process of respiration.