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The integration of molecular robots and synthetic biology allows for the creation of sophisticated behaviors at the molecular level. Similar to the synergy between bioelectronics and soft robotics, synthetic biology provides control circuitry for molecular robots. By encoding perception-action modules within synthetic circuits, molecular machines can advance beyond repeating tasks to the incorporation of complex behaviors. In particular, cell-free synthetic biology provides biomolecular circuitry independent of living cells. This research update reviews the current progress in using synthetic biology as perception-action control modules in robots from molecular robots to macroscale robots. Additionally, it highlights recent developments in molecular robotics and cell-free synthetic biology and suggests their combined use as a necessity for future molecular robot development.
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This content will become publicly available on January 29, 2026
Molecular Aharonov–Bohm-type interferometers based on porphyrin nanorings
A goal of molecular electronics and spintronics is to create molecular devices that change their conductance in response to external stimuli.
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- Award ID(s):
- 2318872
- PAR ID:
- 10590232
- Publisher / Repository:
- Royal Chemical Society
- Date Published:
- Journal Name:
- Chemical Science
- Volume:
- 16
- Issue:
- 10
- ISSN:
- 2041-6520
- Page Range / eLocation ID:
- 4392 to 4401
- Format(s):
- Medium: X
- Sponsoring Org:
- National Science Foundation
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