Octopus inspired device could simplify tissue grafts

The application of cell or tissue sheets to treat injured or diseased tissues has become increasingly widespread in recent years. However, gripping and safely transplanting these fragile tissues is an extremely challenging process.

The new device, developed by a team at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign in the US mimics the way an octopus or squid can pick up both wet and dry objects of all shapes with small pressure changes in their muscle-powered suction cups, rather than a sticky chemical adhesive.

Current methods of transferring the sheets involve growing them on a temperature-sensitive soft polymer that, once transferred, shrinks and releases the thin film. However, this process takes 30-60 minutes to transfer a single sheet, requires skilled technicians and runs the risk of tearing or wrinkling, explained Professor Hyunjoon Kong, who led the study, which is published in the journal Science Advances.