Researchers at the University of Minnesota Twin Cities have developed a robot that, through machine learning training, can automatically perform complex micro injections in genetic research. The relevant paper was published in the latest issue of the journal Genetics. In the experiment, researchers can use this automated robot to manipulate the genetic material of multicellular organisms, including fruit flies and zebrafish embryos. This technology helps laboratories save a lot of time and money, making it easier to conduct large-scale gene experiments that were previously impossible to complete through fully automated technology. Microinjection is the use of very fine pipettes to directly introduce cells, genetic material, or other reagents into embryos, cells, or tissues. Researchers have trained robots to detect embryos as small as 1/100 of a grain of rice, and then the machines can calculate the path and automatically execute the injection process. This fully automated process is more robust and repeatable than manual injection. In recent years, there have been significant improvements in writing and reading DNA, but possessing this technology will enhance people's ability to conduct large-scale genetic experiments in various organisms. This technology can not only be used for genetic experiments, but also help protect endangered species through cryopreservation techniques. Injecting nanoparticles into cells and tissues using robots helps with cryopreservation and subsequent rewarming processes. Researchers also hope to ultimately use this technology for in vitro fertilization to detect eggs at the microscopic level. (Lai Xin She)