Researchers from Harvard University and Emory University developed a robotic fish powered by human heart cells.
The scientists successfully created a school of artificial fish that swims by recreating the contractions of a pumping heart. The fish is made of paper, plastic, gelatin, and two strips of living heart muscle cells. It also has a pacing device similar to a human pacemaker that creates a regular heartbeat. Together, the heart cells and the pacing node allow the fish to swim in a natural, coordinated, and continuous manner.
The device can help researchers understand how the hearts of people with irregular heartbeats work. It could also aid in the advancement of pacemaker technology. Eventually, this technology will help scientists create a completely functioning artificial heart.
Will the robotic fish be the key to ultimately saving patients with heart diseases? Please share your thoughts by commenting below.