Neurobots: Living Machines with Their Own Nervous Systems
In 2020, scientists created xenobots from frog cells. These tiny structures could swim and heal themselves.Now, researchers at Tufts University have added nerve cells. The upgraded versions are called neurobots.As a result, these living machines display more complex movements.
Building Neurobots from Scratch
The team used skin cells from frog embryos. These cells naturally assemble into small spheres.Hair-like cilia on the surface allow them to swim. Then scientists inserted neural precursor cells into the center.These cells matured into neurons with axons and dendrites.
Smarter Movement
Neurobots grew larger and more elongated than regular xenobots. Their movement also became more complex.For example, they showed repeating motion patterns instead of simple paths.Using calcium imaging, researchers confirmed that the neurons were electrically active. The cells formed simple neural networks.
Drug Test Confirms Neural Control
The team exposed neurobots to a seizure‑inducing drug. The drug changed their movement in unique ways.This result suggests that the new neural networks actively shape behavior. “Neurobots let us reverse engineer how nervous systems form,” says researcher Haleh Fotowat.
Unexpected Genetic Clues
Researchers also found activation of genes linked to vision. These include light‑sensitive cell genes.Therefore, neurobots might one day respond to light. “It’s a fascinating question we are actively studying,” says Professor Michael Levin.These living machines could help repair damaged tissues. They also reveal basic rules of neural organization.
