Artificial muscles, although promising technology, could not be produced from biological elements. Researchers at the University of Freiburg have succeeded in producing artificial muscle with all-natural protein.
Artificial muscles made of plastic, nylon, rubber and carbon nanotubes, although functional, do not fully meet expectations. As a result of studies for use in the human body, artificial muscle was produced with natural protein.
Artificial muscle with natural protein that can be used in the human body has been produced
For the study, the researchers used the protein elastin, which gives elasticity to tissues such as skin and blood vessels. Two variations of the protein were produced that responded to different stimuli, mainly variations in temperature and acidity.
Artificial muscle emerged, which, thanks to a chemical reaction, can be moved rhythmically and powered by sodium sulfite. After adjusting the temperature to 20 degrees, the team changed the pH value and allowed the artificial muscle they produced to contract back and forth.
Underlining that it can be made programmable by changing the muscle structure, the researchers stated that the movements can be adjusted according to a certain stimulus. The artificial muscle produced can be used in body implants, as it is biocompatible, as well as robotic arms and prostheses.
The lead author of the study, Dr. “The artificial muscle we developed is derived from the naturally occurring protein elastin. I think we have reached a sufficient level in terms of sustainability for this study. The artificial muscle that we have completed can be made to respond to other stimuli such as the material and the surrounding salt concentration.” said.
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