Beijing: Researchers from the Technical Institute of Physics and Chemistry at the Chinese Academy of Sciences have developed a 3D hand-shaped microrobot measuring 40 micrometers in diameter, smaller than the width of a human hair, capable of performing precise movements such as grasping, transporting, and releasing particles or cells.

According to Oman News Agency, microrobots play a crucial role in early diagnosis and precision medicine, amid increasing demand for controllability in biomedical applications and micro-manipulation, researchers highlighted.

To meet these challenges, they proposed a multi-material, modular hand-shaped microrobot based on femtosecond laser direct writing technology, featuring a pH-sensitive capturing unit and a magnetic-sensitive transportation unit.

This microrobot is designed to avoid obstacles and accurately target molecules and cells. The researchers anticipate that the microrobot will be deployed for cell manipulation, targeted drug delivery for precision therapy, and environmental remediation.