Dance of the Hydrogel (IMAGE) Michigan Technological University Caption A hydrogel treated with dopamine and iron ions is flat under neutral conditions (top photo) and bends in an alkaline state. Michigan Tech's Bruce P. Lee borrowed chemistry found in the adhesive proteins of mussels, left, to make his hydrogel actuator. Credit Bruce P. Lee Usage Restrictions None License Licensed content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.