Topic: Next-Generation Biohybrid Soft Robots: Integration, Interaction and Applications

Biohybrid soft robots, which integrate living biological components with engineered soft materials and robotic systems, represent a rapidly advancing frontier in soft matter and intelligent devices. By leveraging the intrinsic functionalities of biological entities—such as adaptability, self-regulation, and responsiveness—these systems enable new modes of actuation, sensing, and environmental interaction that are difficult to achieve with purely synthetic approaches. Recent advances in materials design, biofabrication, and system integration have significantly expanded the capabilities and application scope of biohybrid soft robots.

This Special Issue focuses on recent progress in the integration strategies, interaction mechanisms, and emerging applications of next-generation biohybrid soft robotic systems. We welcome high-quality contributions, including original research articles, short communications, and reviews, covering innovative materials, device architectures, and system-level functionalities, particularly in biomedical, environmental, and human–machine interface applications.

Key areas of interest include, but are not limited to:

● Integration of living cells, tissues, and microorganisms with soft robotic platforms;

● Bioinspired materials and architectures for adaptive and responsive systems;

● Mechanisms of biohybrid interaction, including sensing, control, and feedback;

● Intelligent control and autonomy in biohybrid soft robots;

● Biomedical and healthcare applications, including drug delivery and implantable devices;

● Environmental sensing and biohybrid robotic systems for complex environments.

Biohybrid soft robots, soft robotics, living materials, biointegration, bioactuation, intelligent systems, biomedical applications