Using an electrical field to control the movement of microswimmers. Researchers from the Max Planck Institute for Dynamics and Self-Organization, the Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad, and the University of Twente in the Netherlands have elucidated the fundamental physiological principles governing complex phenomena by combining experimental findings with theoretical modeling predictions. By calibrating the trajectory and modality of motion through a microscopic channel that harmonizes oscillation, surface adhesion, and central alignment, researchers have discovered novel methods for interacting with the environment.
Microswimmers typically need to independently traverse narrow environments such as microchannels via porous media or blood vessels. Swimming entities will comprise microorganisms or algae, yet uniquely designed to serve as vessels for transporting pharmaceuticals and chemicals, blurring the line between organic life forms and industrial applications. In such situations, effective management necessitates a nuanced understanding of boundaries and parameters – allowing for necessary transactions while maintaining discipline by respecting those limits when appropriate?
While some swimmers do possess an electric charge, the notion that electrical fields can effectively communicate with them through innovative settings is intriguing. Scientists from MPI-DS recently delved into this concept through experiments on self-propelling synthetic microswimmers: “Our research investigated the impact of a combination of electrical fields and pressure-driven circulation on the states of movement of synthetic microswimmers in a channel,” says Corinna Maass, group leader at MPI-DS and Affiliate Professor at the University of Twente. “We identified unique patterns of movement and the underlying system parameters that govern them,” she concisely concludes. The researchers had previously shown that their artificially designed propellers exhibited a natural inclination to navigate against the flow, alternately oscillating between the boundaries of the fluidic channels. The researchers’ breakthrough enables control over the swimmers’ movement through the manipulation of electrical fields and fluid circulation within the channel.
Researchers created diverse potential swimming trajectories by instructing participants to follow either the channel walls or its central axis, with options for oscillatory or linear movements. Capable of executing U-turns when they take a wrong turn, allowing them to correct their route and avoid potential issues. Scientists employed a standardised hydrodynamic model applicable to all swimmers, regardless of body shape or size.
“Assistant Professor Ranabir Dey at IIT Hyderabad notes that the motility of charged swimmers can be further optimized by harnessing the power of external electrical fields.” Our mannequins could potentially aid in grasping and customising synthetic microswimmers, offering inspiration for the development of autonomous micro-robotics and various biotechnological applications.
