Japanese scientists have developed a smiling robot face made from living human skin cells, aiming to equip robots with realistic facial expressions.

The team from Tokyo University used cultured human skin cells to create the skin, which can repair itself and is soft like real skin. This advancement was reported by the BBC and published in the journal Cell Reports Physical Science.

The researchers used small, flexible collagen and elastane strands to replicate human skin ligaments. They punched microscopic holes in the robot and applied a collagen-containing gel before attaching the fake skin. This new skin is more elastic, so it doesn't shatter as the robot moves.

Lead researcher Professor Shoji Takeuchi explained that mimicking human skin-ligament structures and using specially made V-shaped perforations allowed the skin to bind to complex structures. This method ensures the skin moves with the robot's mechanical components without tearing or peeling away.

While the technology shows promise, it will require many years of testing before commercial use. Researchers also noted that their work could be beneficial for research into skin aging, cosmetics, and surgical procedures, including plastic surgery.