Japan scientists make smiling robot with 'living' skin

Tokyo: Japanese scientists have used human cells to develop an equivalent to living skin that can be attached to robotic surfaces to flash a realistic...

Tokyo: Japanese scientists have used human cells to develop an equivalent to living skin that can be attached to robotic surfaces to flash a realistic -- if creepy -- smile.

The University of Tokyo researchers published their findings this week along with a video of the gooey-looking pink material being stretched into an unsettling grin.

They used a "skin-forming cell-laden gel" to create a "robot covered with living skin", their study in the journal Cell Reports Physical Science said.

The biohybrid robot specialists hope the technology will one day play a role in the invention of androids with human-like appearances and abilities.

"We also hope this will help shed better light on wrinkle formations and the physiology of facial expressions," and help to develop transplant materials and cosmetics, the team led by professor Shoji Takeuchi said.