2024/08/16 by Hanqing Dai, Dai, Hanqing, Wenqing Dai +11
Physics and Astronomy · #Biological Physics (physics.bio-ph) #Chemical Physics (physics.chem-ph) #FOS: Physical sciences #Space Science and Extraterrestrial Life
paper · pdf · doi:10.48550/arxiv.2408.08573
openalex publication_date 2024/08/16 · openalex created_date 2024/09/13 · openalex updated_date 2026/07/28
Due to current technological challenges, including the complexity of precise control, low long-term survival and success rates, difficulty in maintaining function over extended periods, and high energy consumption, the construction of life-like creatures with multilevel structures and varied physiological characteristics is a goal that has yet to be achieved1-3. Here, to create a parallel entity termed a meta-creature with similar functions and characteristics to those of natural organisms, we introduce a process for the transformation of an omnipotent hydrogel cell (OHC), which is inspired by totipotent stem cells and carries bio-inspired bioelectricity, into a meta-creature. We captured the electrical signals transmitted between the meta-nerve fibres and rat sciatic nerves, the physicochemical signals perceived by the meta-mouth, and the information exchanged between the meta-skin and the external environment. Notably, the meta-cardiovascular system, which is capable of exchanging matter and energy with external environments, exhibited similar electrocardiogram signals during testing in rabbits; these results indicated feedback with a biological system and the potential for ex vivo bioelectric remodelling. Finally, a meta-creature was designed and exhibited bio-inspired bioelectricity signals during the simulated outdoor flight. This work reveals new possibilities for constructing bio-inspired systems, thereby improving our understanding of bioelectricity and biomimicry.