Emerging Robotic Technologies Expanding Capabilities in the Microscopic World for Biomedical Innovations

In scientific research, there is a growing need for manipulating and automating micro- and nano-scale objects. Particularly in the biomedical field, genetic analysis technology is advancing rapidly, and the objects to be analyzed are now at the single-cell level. This scale is often employed in scientific exploration for analytical purposes, such as investigating unknown properties of living cells and tissues. It requires precise manipulation techniques that consider interactions with the fluid environment. We are working on robotics to expand capabilities in the microscopic world for biomedical innovations. Micro-nano mechatronics plays a crucial role in enabling new functions. We investigated new capabilities of integrating robotic and microfluidic technologies and applied them to several scientific experimental tasks. We developed the associated technologies required for automating micro and nano works. Furthermore, microscopic manipulation is also necessary in tissue sampling within the body. For example, tissue sampling within the digestive system. This paper introduces emerging robotic technologies that expand capabilities in the microscopic world, particularly in manipulation and automation at small scales in the biomedical field.