Scientists create robot face with living skin that heals itself

Lab-grown tissue mimics human skin and is a step towards creating cyborgs that could utilise the sensation of touch
Scientists plan to incorporate features such as sweat glands, pores, fat and nerves to make the skin thicker and more realistic
Scientists plan to incorporate features such as sweat glands, pores, fat and nerves to make the skin thicker and more realistic
TAKEUCHI ET AL

Scientists have created a robot face covered with living skin similar to that of humans as they work towards developing a cyborg that can heal and feel.

The skin was grown in a laboratory by researchers at the University of Tokyo, who believe it could be used to create more realistic humanoid machines.

“This living skin would be particularly useful for robots that interact closely with humans, such as healthcare, service, companion and humanoid robots, where human-like functions are needed,” said Professor Shoji Takeuchi, who led its development.

So far, the lab-grown skin has been attached to a simple robot face capable of smiling. “The skin can repair itself if damaged, similar to how human skin heals wounds,” he said. “And integrating sensory functions like