@article{Wang2026, 
author = {Niyou Wang and Yipei Yang and Zahra Rezaei and María José Veana Hernández and Kannan Govindaraj and Carolina Vazquez Garzon and Marina Colin and Alan  de Jesus Alarcon Rodríguez and Alvaro Dario Martinez Blanco and Jose Joaquin Velasco and Jihyun Lee and Jeong-Woo Choi and Su Ryon Shin},
title = {Advanced biofabrication techniques of muscle cell-powered biohybrid robots},
year = {2026},
journal = {International Journal of Extreme Manufacturing},
volume = {8},
number = {1},
keywords = {biohybrid robots, biofabrication, skeletal muscle cell, cardiomyocyte, bioactuators, tissue engineering},
url = {https://www.sciopen.com/article/10.1088/2631-7990/ae0bc7},
doi = {10.1088/2631-7990/ae0bc7},
abstract = {Muscle cell-powered biohybrid robots represent a transformative fusion of biological tissue engineering and robotics, offering unprecedented potential for biomedical applications targeted at drug delivery, regenerative medicine, bioengineered heart patches, lab-on-a-chip devices, biosensors, and soft surgical tools. This review categorizes the currently available examples and further explores advanced biofabrication techniques that drive the development of biohybrid systems, with a focus on 3D bioprinting, electrospinning, micro/nano patterning, self-assembly, and microfluidic devices. These fabrication strategies facilitate precise cell alignment, enhance electrical and mechanical properties, and enable the seamless integration of biological components with engineered structures. By incorporating both cardiomyocytes and skeletal muscle cells, biohybrid robots achieve controlled actuation, autonomous movement, and adaptability to environmental stimuli. Furthermore, we discuss the latest optimization strategies in biofabrication, addressing key challenges such as scalability, biocompatibility, and functional integration. Biohybrid robots, including swimmers, actuators, and pumps, enable targeted drug delivery, assistive devices, and fluid transport in engineered tissues. Their integration with biological systems advances regenerative medicine, disease modeling, drug screening, and soft robotics. This review provides a comprehensive perspective on the state-of-the-art advancements and potential optimization in the fabrication techniques, paving the way for the next generation of biohybrid robotic systems.}
}