Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 2, 2026
08:09
Microfocus X-ray CT microCT Imaging of Actinia equina Cnidaria, Harmothoe sp. Annelida, and Xenoturbella japonica Xenacoelomorpha
Published on: August 6, 2019
8.1K
The Art in Science of MicroTAS: the 2013 edition
Darwin R Reyes1, Albert Folch, Harp Minhas
1National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), Gaithersburg, MD, USA. darwin.reyes@nist.gov.
Lab on a Chip
|March 12, 2014
Summary
Ye Wang created artificial cilia using PDMS and magnetic nanoparticles. These self-assembled microstructures mimic natural cilia found in eukaryotic cells.
Area of Science:
- Biomimetic engineering
- Microfluidics
- Materials science
Background:
- The 6th annual μTAS Art in Science Award recognized innovative research in miniaturized systems.
- Ye Wang's winning entry, "Artificial Life," showcases self-assembled magnetic artificial cilia.
- The research was presented at the 17th International Conference of Miniaturized Systems for Chemistry and Life Sciences.
Discussion:
- The artificial cilia are composed of polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) and magnetic nanoparticles.
- Fabrication involved a glass mold created through femtolaser modification and hydrofluoric acid etching.
- The resulting structures visually and functionally resemble natural cilia found in eukaryotic cells.
Key Insights:
- Demonstration of self-assembly for creating complex microstructures.
- Utilizing magnetic nanoparticles for potential actuation and control of artificial cilia.
- Successful fabrication of biomimetic structures without traditional cleanroom processes.
Outlook:
- Potential applications in microfluidic devices for fluid manipulation.
- Further development could lead to novel drug delivery systems or biosensors.
- Exploration of advanced actuation mechanisms for these artificial cilia.
Related Concept Videos
01:22Overview of Microscopy Techniques
10.7K
The early pioneers of microscopy opened a window into the invisible world of microorganisms. In 1830, Joseph Jackson Lister created an essentially modern light microscope. The 20th century saw the development of microscopes that leveraged nonvisible light, such as fluorescence microscopy that uses an ultraviolet light source and electron microscopy that uses short-wavelength electron beams. These advances significantly improved magnification, image resolution, and contrast. By comparison, the...
10.7K
01:29Two-Dimensional Microscopy in Microbiology
1.8K
Two-dimensional (2D) microscopy encompasses a range of optical techniques that capture images within a single focal plane, offering detailed representations of microscopic structures. These techniques are essential in biological and medical research, enabling the visualization of cellular and subcellular structures with different levels of contrast and specificity.There are several major types of 2D microscopy, each with strengths and applications.Bright-Field MicroscopyBright-field microscopy...
1.8K
01:07Electron Microscope Tomography and Single-particle Reconstruction
2.0K
Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) can be used to determine the 3D structure of biological samples with the help of techniques such as electron microscope tomography and single-particle reconstruction. While single-particle reconstruction can examine macromolecules and macromolecular complexes in vitro conditions only, tomography permits the study of cell components or small cells in vivo.
Electron Tomography
Electron tomography can be performed either in TEM or STEM (scanning transmission...
Electron Tomography
Electron tomography can be performed either in TEM or STEM (scanning transmission...
2.0K
01:19Key Techniques in Microbiology
3.0K
Aseptic techniques prevent contamination, ensure experimental accuracy, and protect researchers and microbial cultures. These techniques are essential in clinical, industrial, and research settings where sterility is required.Maintaining Sterility in Laboratory PracticesScientists maintain sterility by sterilizing tools with heat or chemicals, disinfecting work surfaces, and handling cultures in controlled environments. Working near an open flame or within a laminar flow hood reduces the risk...
3.0K
01:35Microtubules
74.7K
There are three types of cytoskeletal structures in eukaryotic cells—microfilaments, intermediate filaments, and microtubules. With a diameter of about 25 nm, microtubules are the thickest of these fibers. Microtubules carry out a variety of functions that include cell structure and support, transport of organelles, cell motility (movement), and the separation of chromosomes during cell division.
74.7K