Neural networks and robotic microneedles enable autonomous extraction of plant metabolites

Abstract

Plant metabolites comprise a wide range of extremely important chemicals. In many cases, like savory spices, they combine distinctive functional properties - deterrence against herbivory - with an unmistakable flavor. Others have remarkable therapeutic qualities, for instance, the malaria drug artemisinin, or mechanical properties, e.g., natural rubber. We present a breakthrough in plant metabolite extraction technology. Using a neural network, we teach a computer how to recognize metabolite-rich cells of the herbal plant rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) and automatically extract the chemicals using a microrobot while leaving the rest of the plant undisturbed. Our approach obviates the need for chemical and mechanical separation and enables the extraction of plant metabolites that currently lack proper methods for efficient biomass use. Computer code required to train the neural network, identify regions of interest, and control the micromanipulator is available as part of the supplemental material.

Rosmarinus officinalis and Skin: Antioxidant Activity and Possible Therapeutical Role in Cutaneous Diseases

“…Among the many plants and their active constituents studied in this unconventional setting [ 12 , 13 , 14 , 15 , 16 ], the rosemary plant, Rosmarinus officinalis L ., one of the main members of the Lamiaceae family, cultivated in the Mediterranean basin for culinary use [ 17 ], is listed as one of the most promising. This is due to its increasingly established clinical utility [ 18 ] supported by the development of breakthrough methods for the targeted extraction of its bioactive metabolites [ 19 ]. Rosemary extracts are commercially available in Europe and the USA for use as natural antioxidants in the food industry.…”