Using human stem cell-derived heart cells, scientists have generated a biohybrid fish that is capable of swimming. According to the researchers, the result represents a big step forward in the development of artificial heart valves.
Biohybrid systems with live components are being developed in scientific investigations to better understand physiological control processes and to investigate robotic solutions to a variety of health concerns. Earlier this month, a partnership of Harvard and Emory University professors announced the successful construction of a biohybrid fish with the ultimate goal of constructing an artificial heart.
In the biohybrid device, which is designed to look and move like a zebrafish, heart cells derived from human stem cells are used to power the device. It is the heart cells on both sides of the tail that contract and relax in the same way that human heart cells do, which allows the tail to move.
The coordinated action of the muscles on both sides of the tail is mediated by pressure-sensitive proteins in the muscle fibers. When one side of the tail relaxes, pressure-sensitive proteins cause contraction on the opposite side of the tail to occur. As a result, the tail of the biohybrid gadget moves in a fish-like fashion. In addition, the biohybrid fish features an autonomous part that maintains heart rhythm, just like pacemakers do in humans. Biohybrid fish are able to operate for longer periods of time, more quickly, and more efficiently as a result of the processes that regulate muscle function and rhythm.
The biohybrid fish that was created is believed to be the world's first autonomous biohybrid gadget composed entirely of heart cells.
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