Core Insights - A research team from Carnegie Mellon University has developed a new engineering method to create micro-bio-robots using human lung cells, known as AggreBots, which are expected to perform therapeutic or mechanical tasks in complex human environments, such as drug delivery [1][2] Group 1: Development of AggreBots - The bio-robots are microscopic artificial biological machines capable of autonomous movement and programmability, previously relying on muscle fiber contraction and relaxation for movement [1] - The research team introduced a novel mechanism using cilia-driven movement, which is crucial for fluid flow in organs like the lungs, overcoming challenges in stabilizing and controlling the movement of cilia-driven robots [1] Group 2: Modular Assembly Strategy - A modular assembly strategy was pioneered, utilizing lung stem cells to cultivate small tissue spheres that are then spatially assembled to create AggreBots with varying movement characteristics [1] - The team introduced genetically mutated cell spheres at specific locations to disable some cilia, allowing precise control over cilia distribution and quantity, thus guiding the movement behavior of the bio-robots [1] Group 3: Future Applications - This method provides a new perspective for designing bio-robots and bio-hybrid robots, combining ciliated and non-ciliated units to create robots with specific movement patterns [2] - AggreBots, being entirely composed of biological materials, possess natural degradability and biocompatibility, making them promising candidates for direct medical applications [2] - The bio-robots can potentially be manufactured using patients' own cells, enabling the creation of personalized drug delivery carriers and minimizing immune rejection [2]