A new study has revealed the inner workings of microscopic muscles that allow some of the tiniest creatures on Earth to move with remarkable dexterity. The findings, published in the journal Nature, provide insight into the evolution of muscle structure that may help scientists develop miniature robotics and synthetic materials.

Researchers have long been fascinated by the tiny creatures that can move with incredible agility, from the water bear’s ability to climb a vertical wall of glass to the rotifer’s ability to swim with its tail. Now, a team of scientists from the University of Cambridge has revealed the structural secret behind these dexterous movements: microscopic muscles. By studying the muscle structure of rotifers, the researchers uncovered a rare type of muscle cell that can contract and relax in rapid succession. This rapid contraction-relaxation cycle gives the rotifer its dexterity, allowing it to swim with precise control. The study also sheds light on the evolution of muscle structure, which could help scientists develop miniature robotics and synthetic materials.

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source: Phys.org