This smiling robot face made of living skin is absolute nightmare fuel

The new living skin on robots, developed by researchers at the University of Tokyo and Harvard, is designed to mimic the properties of natural human skin. It can heal itself, carry biological sensors for sensitive touch, and could have benefits in medical or human interaction contexts. However, it lacks some of the functions and durability of real skin, such as sensing functions and the absence of blood vessels to supply nutrients and moisture. The researchers are working to address these issues by incorporating neural mechanisms and perfusion channels into the skin tissue.

The main focus of the recent study published in Cell Reports Physical Science is the development of a living tissue surface, or "dermis equivalent," that can attach to the mechanical foundation of a robot's limb or face, allowing for manipulation in various directions without tearing or distortion. This cultured skin could have applications in medical and human interaction contexts, as well as potentially providing sensitive touch through biological sensors.