Abstract

We are examining techniques for manipulation of microfabricated elements using arrays of bacteria as microactuators. Flagellated Serratia marcescens bacteria are attached to microstructures using a blotting technique that creates a bacterial monolayer carpet. These bacterial carpets naturally self-coordinate to propel the microstructures. We refer to these constructs as microbiorobots (MBR). Generally, the motion pattern of the MBRs is largely rotational in nature, and the center of mass deviates no more than several hundred microns from its original position. However, the angular velocity and orientation of the MBRs may be controlled using ultraviolet light stimulus, and the translational position may be adjusted using electrokinetic stimulus. Here, we demonstrate precision positional adjustment of a microbiorobotic transporter that is used to engage and transport cube-shaped particles 10 μm on each side.

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