Polymer gel transfers microscopic matter

A polymer gel that allows for safe transfer of microscopic matter has been jointly developed by researchers at the Universities of Tokyo and Ritsumeikan. When added to an aqueous solution, the gel has 0.3mm high projections that move in a wave pattern, which allows for safe transport of cells and other bio-materials.

The team used a polymer gel film that contains metal ions and moves similarly to a beating heart. This results from the changing state of the metal ions when the film is placed into the aqueous solution containing citric acid.

The gel was put into a mould to create many small projections on its surface. When the film is added to the solution, the projections move with a cilia-like motion, with each bud moving by 10mm. The researchers believe they can develop a new device to form molecules by making smaller buds with narrower spacing.