"Scientists Transform Human Cells into Healing 'Anthrobots'"
Researchers at Tufts University and Harvard University's Wyss Institute have developed tiny biological robots called Anthrobots from human tracheal cells. These multicellular bots, ranging in size from the width of a human hair to the point of a sharpened pencil, can self-assemble and have been found to encourage the growth of neurons in damaged areas. The researchers envision using patient-derived biobots as therapeutic tools for regeneration, healing, and disease treatment. The Anthrobots, made from adult human cells without genetic modification, have demonstrated capabilities beyond previous Xenobots research. This breakthrough could pave the way for the development of therapeutic applications such as clearing plaque buildup, repairing nerve damage, recognizing cancer cells, and delivering targeted drugs.