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RF08 Artificial muscles: the intersection between biology and technology
  1. Kyriakos Birmpas
  1. University of Patras, Greece

Abstract

Introduction This study explores the intersection of tissue engineering and artificial actuation systems, focusing on bioartificial muscles for potential applications in neurorehabilitation.

Methods In the present paper, we are reviewing literature data from scholarly databases to document the multitude of emergent technologies for creating synthetic muscles for amputees and patients with myopathies.

Results Tissue engineering strategies utilizing biomaterials present promising solutions. Two main approaches are discussed: implanting isolated muscle cells in vivo or developing functional 3D muscle tissue in vitro, and in situ tissue engineering utilizing biomaterials with cytokines or paracrine signalling cells. Efficient 3D skeletal muscle culture models, employing hydrogel-based and self-assembled techniques, are proposed to overcome the limitations of traditional 2D cell culture. Biomaterials such as collagen, fibrin, and hydrogels are explored to create a biomimetic muscle microenvironment, providing cues for rapid muscle development and function.

Conclusion Bioartificial muscles, integrating tissue engineering and artificial actuation systems, present a promising avenue for neurorehabilitation. The study outlines the potential applications in addressing injuries and providing advanced models for research and drug testing. These advancements offer new horizons for enhancing rehabilitation outcomes and understanding the intricacies of muscle-related conditions.

http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/

This is an open access article distributed in accordance with the Creative Commons Attribution Non Commercial (CC BY-NC 4.0) license, which permits others to distribute, remix, adapt, build upon this work non-commercially, and license their derivative works on different terms, provided the original work is properly cited, appropriate credit is given, any changes made indicated, and the use is non-commercial. See: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/.

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