AI Summary

Researchers have engineered a thin sheet of protein filaments that incorporates cell‑free gene expression, allowing the material to manufacture its own motility proteins without living cells. The DNA embedded in the sheet encodes instructions that cause the material to wrinkle, form blister‑like protrusions, and break into bundles that flow around each other. By altering the genetic program, the researchers can switch the filaments between sustained motion, a single burst of activity, or repeated cycles of acceleration and deceleration. This demonstrates a self‑programmed, cell‑free system capable of generating autonomous movement.

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