Applications and Bottlenecks of Cell-based Micro-robots
Micro-organisms has been developed as micro-robots in drug delivery, genetic and cellular therapeutics. Compared with mechanical robots, cell-based micro-robots have a more complete controlling system and a better energy conversion system. However, how to achieve precise control over them remains a great challenge to researchers. C. reinhardtii, with its stronger motility and inborn light sensing system, has become a desired choice to make cell-based micro-robots. |
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The Design of Molecular Light Converter
We combined optically polymeric protein with split Ranilla luciferase, realizing the recovery of complete luciferase and the activation of blue light under the control of infrared light. This molecular light converter will produce blue light inside C. reinhardtii and thus activate the algae.(Check out our Design) |
Application & Human Practices
Red light controlled C. reinhardtii can be mainly used as a cell-based miro-robot to work in medical areas. In the meantime, we also hope to extend the application area of it. We interviewed specialist in different fields, exploring the possibility of future utilization. Through public researches, we have learnt about the public acceptance of Chlamydomonas cell robots for medical applications. (Learn more in our HP) |
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Our Achievements
We extended the motility control of Chlamydomonas, realizing the motility control of C. reinhaedtii by red light, and showed possibility of further motility control by different lights. We also provided the concept of molecular optical converter. In addition, the method of protein splitting was applied in condition control, which extended the application of protein splitting. (See our Awards) |
