1
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He Z, Li Y, Yang L, Li Y, Cao D, Wang S, Xie J, Yan X. Sunlight-triggered prebiotic nanomotors for inhibition and elimination of pathogen and biofilm in aquatic environment. J Colloid Interface Sci 2024; 665:634-642. [PMID: 38552580 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcis.2024.03.163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2024] [Revised: 03/20/2024] [Accepted: 03/24/2024] [Indexed: 04/17/2024]
Abstract
Pathogen contamination in drinking water sources causes waterborne infectious diseases, seriously threatening human health. Nowadays, stimuli-responsive self-propelled nanomotors are appealing therapeutic agents for antibacterial therapy in vivo. However, achieving water disinfection using these nanobots is still a great challenge. Herein, we report on prebiotic galactooligosaccharide-based nanomotors for sunlight-regulated water disinfection. The nanomotors can utilize galactooligosaccharide-based N-nitrosamines as sunlight-responsive fuels for the spontaneous production of antibacterial nitric oxide. Such a solar-to-chemical energy conversion would power the nanomotors for self-diffusiophoresis, which could promote the diffusion of the nanomotors in water and their penetration in the biofilm, significantly enhancing the inhibition and elimination of the pathogens and their biofilms in aquatic environments. After water treatments, the prebiotic-based residual disinfectants can be selectively utilized by beneficial bacteria to effectively relieve safety risks to the environment and human health. The low-energy-cost, green and potent antibacterial nanobots show promising potential in water disinfection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhaoxia He
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Tianjin University of Science and Technology, Tianjin 300457, China
| | - Yun Li
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Tianjin University of Science and Technology, Tianjin 300457, China
| | - Lianjiao Yang
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Tianjin University of Science and Technology, Tianjin 300457, China
| | - Yan Li
- School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China
| | - Dongsheng Cao
- School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China
| | - Shuai Wang
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Tianjin University of Science and Technology, Tianjin 300457, China.
| | - Jianchun Xie
- China Food Flavor and Nutrition Health Innovation Center, Beijing Technology and Business University, Beijing 100048, China.
| | - Xibo Yan
- School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China.
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2
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Babeer A, Bukhari S, Alrehaili R, Karabucak B, Koo H. Microrobotics in endodontics: A perspective. Int Endod J 2024; 57:861-871. [PMID: 38761098 DOI: 10.1111/iej.14082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2023] [Revised: 04/28/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/20/2024]
Abstract
Microorganisms are the primary aetiological factor of apical periodontitis. The goal of endodontic treatment is to prevent and eliminate the infection by removing the microorganisms. However, microbial biofilms and the complex root canal anatomy impair the disinfection process. Effective and precise endodontic therapy could potentially be achieved using advanced multifunctional technologies that have the ability to access hard-to-reach surfaces and perform simultaneous biofilm killing, removal, and detection of microorganisms. Advances in microrobotics are providing novel therapeutic and diagnostic opportunities with high precision and efficacy to address current biofilm-related challenges in biomedicine. Concurrently, multifunctional magnetic microrobots have been developed to overcome the disinfection challenges of current approaches to disrupt, kill, and retrieve biofilms with the goal of enhancing the efficacy and precision of endodontic therapy. This article reviews the recent advances of microrobotics in healthcare and particularly advances to overcome disinfection challenges in endodontics, and provides perspectives for future research in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alaa Babeer
- Department of Oral Biology, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
- Department of Endodontics, School of Dental Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Sarah Bukhari
- Department of Endodontics, School of Dental Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
- Department of Endodontics, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Rayan Alrehaili
- Department of Endodontics, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Bekir Karabucak
- Department of Endodontics, School of Dental Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Hyun Koo
- Biofilm Research Labs, Department of Orthodontics, Divisions of Pediatric Dentistry and Community of Oral Health, School of Dental Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
- Center for Innovation and Precision Dentistry, School of Dental Medicine, School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
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3
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Yan C, Feng K, Bao B, Chen J, Xu X, Jiang G, Wang Y, Guo J, Jiang T, Kang Y, Wang C, Li C, Zhang C, Nie P, Liu S, Machens HG, Zhu L, Yang X, Niu R, Chen Z. Biohybrid Nanorobots Carrying Glycoengineered Extracellular Vesicles Promote Diabetic Wound Repair through Dual-Enhanced Cell and Tissue Penetration. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024:e2404456. [PMID: 38894569 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202404456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2024] [Revised: 05/18/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
Considerable progress has been made in the development of drug delivery systems for diabetic wounds. However, underlying drawbacks, such as low delivery efficiency and poor tissue permeability, have rarely been addressed. In this study, a multifunctional biohybrid nanorobot platform comprising an artificial unit and several biological components is constructed. The artificial unit is a magnetically driven nanorobot surface modified with antibacterial 2-hydroxypropyltrimethyl ammonium chloride chitosan, which enables the entire platform to move and has excellent tissue penetration capacity. The biological components are two-step engineered extracellular vesicles that are first loaded with mangiferin, a natural polyphenolic compound with antioxidant properties, and then glycoengineered on the surface to enhance cellular uptake efficiency. As expected, the platform is more easily absorbed by endothelial cells and fibroblasts and exhibits outstanding dermal penetration performance and antioxidant properties. Encouraging results are also observed in infected diabetic wound models, showing improved wound re-epithelialization, collagen deposition, angiogenesis, and accelerated wound healing. Collectively, a biohybrid nanorobot platform that possesses the functionalities of both artificial units and biological components serves as an efficient delivery system to promote diabetic wound repair through dual-enhanced cell and tissue penetration and multistep interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chengqi Yan
- Department of Hand Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Kai Feng
- Key Laboratory of Material Chemistry for Energy Conversion and Storage, Ministry of Education, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430074, China
| | - Bingkun Bao
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China
| | - Jing Chen
- Department of Dermatology, Wuhan No.1 Hospital, Wuhan, Hubei, 430022, China
| | - Xiang Xu
- Department of Hand Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Guoyong Jiang
- Department of Hand Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Yufeng Wang
- Department of Hand Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Jiahe Guo
- Department of Hand Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Tao Jiang
- Department of Hand Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Yu Kang
- Department of Hand Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Cheng Wang
- Department of Hand Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Chengcheng Li
- Department of Hand Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Chi Zhang
- Department of Hand Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Pengjuan Nie
- Department of Hand Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Shuoyuan Liu
- Department of Hand Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Hans-Günther Machens
- Department of Plastic and Hand Surgery, Technical University of Munich, D-80333, Munich, Germany
| | - Linyong Zhu
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China
| | - Xiaofan Yang
- Department of Hand Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Ran Niu
- Key Laboratory of Material Chemistry for Energy Conversion and Storage, Ministry of Education, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430074, China
| | - Zhenbing Chen
- Department of Hand Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
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Zhao J, Xin C, Zhu J, Xia N, Hao B, Liu X, Tan Y, Yang S, Wang X, Xue J, Wang Q, Lu H, Zhang L. Insect-Scale Biped Robots Based on Asymmetrical Friction Effect Induced by Magnetic Torque. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2024; 36:e2312655. [PMID: 38465794 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202312655] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2023] [Revised: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 03/12/2024]
Abstract
Multimodal and controllable locomotion in complex terrain is of great importance for practical applications of insect-scale robots. Robust locomotion plays a particularly critical role. In this study, a locomotion mechanism for magnetic robots based on asymmetrical friction effect induced by magnetic torque is revealed and defined. The defined mechanism overcomes the design constraints imposed by both robot and substrate structures, enabling the realization of multimodal locomotion on complex terrains. Drawing inspiration from human walking and running locomotion, a biped robot based on the mechanism is proposed, which not only exhibits rapid locomotion across substrates with varying friction coefficients but also achieves precise locomotion along patterned trajectories through programmed controlling. Furthermore, apart from its exceptional locomotive capabilities, the biped robot demonstrates remarkable robustness in terms of load-carrying and weight-bearing performance. The presented locomotion and mechanism herein introduce a novel concept for designing magnetic robots while offering extensive possibilities for practical applications in insect-scale robotics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinsheng Zhao
- Department of Mechanical and Automation Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, 999077, China
| | - Chen Xin
- Department of Mechanical and Automation Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, 999077, China
| | - Jiaqi Zhu
- Department of Mechanical and Automation Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, 999077, China
| | - Neng Xia
- Department of Mechanical and Automation Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, 999077, China
| | - Bo Hao
- Department of Mechanical and Automation Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, 999077, China
| | - Xurui Liu
- Department of Mechanical and Automation Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, 999077, China
| | - Yu Tan
- College of Environment and Civil Engineering, Chengdu University of Technology, Chengdu, 610059, China
| | - Shihao Yang
- Department of Mechanical and Automation Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, 999077, China
| | - Xin Wang
- Department of Mechanical and Automation Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, 999077, China
| | - Junnan Xue
- Department of Mechanical and Automation Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, 999077, China
| | - Qinglong Wang
- Department of Mechanical and Automation Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, 999077, China
| | - Haojian Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Industrial Control and Technology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310027, China
- Institute of Cyber-Systems and Control, Department of Control Science and Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310027, China
| | - Li Zhang
- Department of Mechanical and Automation Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, 999077, China
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5
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Preetam S. Nano revolution: pioneering the future of water reclamation with micro-/nano-robots. NANOSCALE ADVANCES 2024; 6:2569-2581. [PMID: 38752135 PMCID: PMC11093266 DOI: 10.1039/d3na01106b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 03/05/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024]
Abstract
Earth's freshwater reserves are alarmingly limited, with less than 1% readily available. Factors such as industrialisation, population expansion, and climate change are compounding the scarcity of clean water. In this context, self-driven, programmable micro- and nano-scale synthetic robots offer a potential solution for enhancing water monitoring and remediation. With the aid of these innovative robots, diffusion-limited reactions can be overcome, allowing for active engagement with target pollutants, such as heavy metals, dyes, nano- and micro-plastics, oils, pathogenic microorganisms, and persistent organic pollutants. Herein, we introduced and reviewed recent influential and advanced studies on micro-/nano-robots (MNR) carried out over the past decade. Typical works are categorized by propulsion modes, analyzing their advantages and drawbacks in detail and looking at specific applications. Moreover, this review provides a concise overview of the contemporary advancements and applications of micro-/nano-robots in water-cleaning applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Subham Preetam
- Department of Robotics and Mechatronics Engineering, Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology Daegu-42988 South Korea
- Institute of Advanced Materials, IAAM Gammalkilsvägen 18 Ulrika 59053 Sweden
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6
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Zhu Z, Huang C, Liu L, Wang J, Gou X. Magnetically actuated pandanus fruit-like nanorobots for enhanced pH-stimulated drug release and targeted biofilm elimination in wound healing. J Colloid Interface Sci 2024; 661:374-388. [PMID: 38306747 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcis.2024.01.197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2023] [Revised: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 01/27/2024] [Indexed: 02/04/2024]
Abstract
Conventional antibiotic treatment struggles to eliminate biofilms in wounds due to the formation compact barrier. Herein, we fabricate magnetic pandanus fruit-like nanorobots (NRs) that function as drug carriers while exhibit excellent maneuverability for enhanced antibacterial tasks. Specifically, zeolitic imidazolate framework-8 (ZIF-8) is self-assembled on the surface of Fe3O4 nanoparticles, loaded with a small quantity of ciprofloxacin, and covered with a layer of polydopamine (PDA). Energized by external magnetic fields, the NRs (F@Z/C/P) are steered in defined direction to penetrate the infection tissues, and effectively arrive targeted areas for pH stimulated drug release and near-infrared triggered phototherapy, contributing to an antibacterial rate of >99.9 %. The Zn2+ in ZIF-8 and the catechol group in PDA form catechol-ZIF-8-drug structures, which effectively reduce drug release by 11 % in high pH environments and promote rapid drug release by 14 % in low pH environments compared to NRs without PDA. Additionally, F@Z/C/P can remove the biofilms and bacteria in Staphylococcus aureus infected wounds, and eventually be discharged from the infected site after treatment, leading to faster healing with an intact epidermis and minimal harm to surrounding tissues and organs. The study provides a promising strategy for tackling biofilm-associated infections in vivo through the use of multi-functional NRs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zixin Zhu
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, College of Medicine, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610031, PR China; Key Laboratory of Advanced Technologies of Materials (Ministry of Education), School of Materials Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610031, PR China
| | - Chenjun Huang
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, College of Medicine, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610031, PR China
| | - Laiyi Liu
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, College of Medicine, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610031, PR China
| | - Jiayi Wang
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, College of Medicine, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610031, PR China
| | - Xue Gou
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, College of Medicine, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610031, PR China; Key Laboratory of Advanced Technologies of Materials (Ministry of Education), School of Materials Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610031, PR China.
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7
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Mayorga-Martinez CC, Zhang L, Pumera M. Chemical multiscale robotics for bacterial biofilm treatment. Chem Soc Rev 2024; 53:2284-2299. [PMID: 38324331 DOI: 10.1039/d3cs00564j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2024]
Abstract
A biofilm constitutes a bacterial community encased in a sticky matrix of extracellular polymeric substances. These intricate microbial communities adhere to various host surfaces such as hard and soft tissues as well as indwelling medical devices. These microbial aggregates form a robust matrix of extracellular polymeric substances (EPSs), leading to the majority of human infections. Such infections tend to exhibit high resistance to treatment, often progressing into chronic states. The matrix of EPS protects bacteria from a hostile environment and prevents the penetration of antibacterial agents. Modern robots at nano, micro, and millimeter scales are highly attractive candidates for biomedical applications due to their diverse functionalities, such as navigating in confined spaces and targeted multitasking. In this tutorial review, we describe key milestones in the strategies developed for the removal and eradication of biofilms using robots of different sizes and shapes. It can be seen that robots at different scales are useful and effective tools for treating bacterial biofilms, thus preventing persistent infections, the loss of costly implanted medical devices, and additional costs associated with hospitalization and therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmen C Mayorga-Martinez
- Advanced Nanorobots & Multicale Robotics, Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, VSB - Technical University of Ostrava, 17. listopadu 2172/15, Ostrava 70800, Czech Republic.
| | - Li Zhang
- Department of Mechanical and Automation Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong 999077, China
- Department of Surgery, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong 999077, China
| | - Martin Pumera
- Advanced Nanorobots & Multicale Robotics, Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, VSB - Technical University of Ostrava, 17. listopadu 2172/15, Ostrava 70800, Czech Republic.
- Department of Medical Research, China Medical University Hospital, China Medical University, No. 91 Hsueh-Shih Road, Taichung, 40402, Taiwan
- Future Energy and Innovation Laboratory, Central European Institute of Technology, Brno University of Technology, Purkyňova 656/123, Brno, CZ-616 00, Czech Republic
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Yonsei University, 50 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul 03722, Korea
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Feng P, He R, Gu Y, Yang F, Pan H, Shuai C. Construction of antibacterial bone implants and their application in bone regeneration. MATERIALS HORIZONS 2024; 11:590-625. [PMID: 38018410 DOI: 10.1039/d3mh01298k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2023]
Abstract
Bacterial infection represents a prevalent challenge during the bone repair process, often resulting in implant failure. However, the extensive use of antibiotics has limited local antibacterial effects at the infection site and is prone to side effects. In order to address the issue of bacterial infection during the transplantation of bone implants, four types of bone scaffold implants with long-term antimicrobial functionality have been constructed, including direct contact antimicrobial scaffold, dissolution-penetration antimicrobial scaffold, photocatalytic antimicrobial scaffold, and multimodal synergistic antimicrobial scaffold. The direct contact antimicrobial scaffold involves the physical penetration or disruption of bacterial cell membranes by the scaffold surface or hindrance of bacterial adhesion through surface charge, microstructure, and other factors. The dissolution-penetration antimicrobial scaffold releases antimicrobial substances from the scaffold's interior through degradation and other means to achieve local antimicrobial effects. The photocatalytic antimicrobial scaffold utilizes the absorption of light to generate reactive oxygen species (ROS) with enhanced chemical reactivity for antimicrobial activity. ROS can cause damage to bacterial cell membranes, deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA), proteins, and other components. The multimodal synergistic antimicrobial scaffold involves the combined use of multiple antimicrobial methods to achieve synergistic effects and effectively overcome the limitations of individual antimicrobial approaches. Additionally, the biocompatibility issues of the antimicrobial bone scaffold are also discussed, including in vitro cell adhesion, proliferation, and osteogenic differentiation, as well as in vivo bone repair and vascularization. Finally, the challenges and prospects of antimicrobial bone implants are summarized. The development of antimicrobial bone implants can provide effective solutions to bacterial infection issues in bone defect repair in the foreseeable future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pei Feng
- State Key Laboratory of Precision Manufacturing for Extreme Service Performance, College of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, Central South University, Changsha 410083, China.
| | - Ruizhong He
- State Key Laboratory of Precision Manufacturing for Extreme Service Performance, College of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, Central South University, Changsha 410083, China.
| | - Yulong Gu
- State Key Laboratory of Precision Manufacturing for Extreme Service Performance, College of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, Central South University, Changsha 410083, China.
| | - Feng Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Precision Manufacturing for Extreme Service Performance, College of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, Central South University, Changsha 410083, China.
| | - Hao Pan
- Department of Periodontics & Oral Mucosal Section, Xiangya Stomatological Hospital & Xiangya School of Stomatology, Central South University, Changsha 410013, China.
| | - Cijun Shuai
- State Key Laboratory of Precision Manufacturing for Extreme Service Performance, College of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, Central South University, Changsha 410083, China.
- Institute of Additive Manufacturing, Jiangxi University of Science and Technology, Nanchang 330013, China
- College of Mechanical Engineering, Xinjiang University, Urumqi 830017, China
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Kong X, Gao P, Wang J, Fang Y, Hwang KC. Advances of medical nanorobots for future cancer treatments. J Hematol Oncol 2023; 16:74. [PMID: 37452423 PMCID: PMC10347767 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-023-01463-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2023] [Accepted: 05/31/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Early detection and diagnosis of many cancers is very challenging. Late stage detection of a cancer always leads to high mortality rates. It is imperative to develop novel and more sensitive and effective diagnosis and therapeutic methods for cancer treatments. The development of new cancer treatments has become a crucial aspect of medical advancements. Nanobots, as one of the most promising applications of nanomedicines, are at the forefront of multidisciplinary research. With the progress of nanotechnology, nanobots enable the assembly and deployment of functional molecular/nanosized machines and are increasingly being utilized in cancer diagnosis and therapeutic treatment. In recent years, various practical applications of nanobots for cancer treatments have transitioned from theory to practice, from in vitro experiments to in vivo applications. In this paper, we review and analyze the recent advancements of nanobots in cancer treatments, with a particular emphasis on their key fundamental features and their applications in drug delivery, tumor sensing and diagnosis, targeted therapy, minimally invasive surgery, and other comprehensive treatments. At the same time, we discuss the challenges and the potential research opportunities for nanobots in revolutionizing cancer treatments. In the future, medical nanobots are expected to become more sophisticated and capable of performing multiple medical functions and tasks, ultimately becoming true nanosubmarines in the bloodstream.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangyi Kong
- Department of Breast Surgical Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100021, China
- Department of Breast Surgical Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital and Shenzhen Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Shenzhen, 518116, China
| | - Peng Gao
- Department of Breast Surgical Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100021, China
- Division of Breast Surgery, Department of General Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
- Breast Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Jing Wang
- Department of Breast Surgical Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100021, China.
| | - Yi Fang
- Department of Breast Surgical Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100021, China.
| | - Kuo Chu Hwang
- Department of Chemistry, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, 30013, Taiwan ROC.
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de la Asunción-Nadal V, Bujalance-Fernández J, Jurado-Sánchez B, Escarpa A. Photoresponsive MoS 2 and WS 2 microflakes as mobile biocide agents. NANOSCALE 2023; 15:9675-9683. [PMID: 37009994 DOI: 10.1039/d3nr00349c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
A fuel-free strategy for the eradication of Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus biofilms using WS2 and MoS2 photophoretic microflakes is described. The microflakes were prepared by liquid-phase exfoliation of the materials. Under electromagnetic irradiation at 480 or 535 nm, the microflakes experience a fast collective behavior at speeds of over 300 μm s-1 due to photophoresis. Simultaneously to their motion, reactive oxygen species are generated. The fast microflake schooling into multiple moving swarms results in a highly efficient "collision" platform that disrupts the biofilm, enhancing radical oxygen species' contact with the bacteria for their inactivation. As such, removal biofilm mass rates of over 90% and 65% are achieved using the MoS2 and WS2 microflakes in the treatment of Gram-negative E. coli and Gram-positive S. aureus biofilms after 20 min. Much lower removal biofilm mass rates (30%) are obtained under static conditions, revealing the crucial role of microflake movement and radical generation in the active eradication of biofilms. Much higher removal efficiencies are observed in biofilm deactivation as compared with the use of free antibiotics, which are not able to destroy the densely packed biofilms. The new moving microflakes hold considerable promise for the treatment of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Víctor de la Asunción-Nadal
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Physical Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, University of Alcala, Alcala de Henares, Madrid, E-28805, Spain.
| | - Javier Bujalance-Fernández
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Physical Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, University of Alcala, Alcala de Henares, Madrid, E-28805, Spain.
| | - Beatriz Jurado-Sánchez
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Physical Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, University of Alcala, Alcala de Henares, Madrid, E-28805, Spain.
- Chemical Research Institute "Andres M. del Rio", University of Alcala, Alcala de Henares, Madrid, E-28805, Spain
| | - Alberto Escarpa
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Physical Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, University of Alcala, Alcala de Henares, Madrid, E-28805, Spain.
- Chemical Research Institute "Andres M. del Rio", University of Alcala, Alcala de Henares, Madrid, E-28805, Spain
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11
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Król JE, Ehrlich GD. Using SMART Magnetic Fluids and Gels for Prevention and Destruction of Bacterial Biofilms. Microorganisms 2023; 11:1515. [PMID: 37375017 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11061515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2023] [Revised: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 06/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Biofouling is a major problem in all natural and artificial settings where solid surfaces meet liquids in the presence of living microorganisms. Microbes attach to the surface and form a multidimensional slime that protects them from unfavorable environments. These structures, known as biofilms, are detrimental and very hard to remove. Here, we used SMART magnetic fluids [ferrofluids (FFs), magnetorheological fluids (MRFs), and ferrogels (FGs) containing iron oxide nano/microparticles] and magnetic fields to remove bacterial biofilms from culture tubes, glass slides, multiwell plates, flow cells, and catheters. We compared the ability of different SMART fluids to remove biofilms and found that commercially available, as well as homemade, FFs, MRFs, and FGs can successfully remove biofilm more efficiently than traditional mechanical methods, especially from textured surfaces. In tested conditions, SMARTFs reduced bacterial biofilms by five orders of magnitude. The ability to remove biofilm increased with the amount of magnetic particles; therefore, MRFs, FG, and homemade FFs with high amounts of iron oxide were the most efficient. We showed also that SMART fluid deposition can protect a surface from bacterial attachment and biofilm formation. Possible applications of these technologies are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jarosƚaw E Król
- Center for Surgical Infections and Biofilms, Center for Advanced Microbial Processing, Center for Genomic Sciences, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Garth D Ehrlich
- Center for Surgical Infections and Biofilms, Center for Advanced Microbial Processing, Center for Genomic Sciences, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
- Department Head and Neck Surgery, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
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12
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Montoya C, Roldan L, Yu M, Valliani S, Ta C, Yang M, Orrego S. Smart dental materials for antimicrobial applications. Bioact Mater 2023; 24:1-19. [PMID: 36582351 PMCID: PMC9763696 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioactmat.2022.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2022] [Revised: 11/17/2022] [Accepted: 12/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Smart biomaterials can sense and react to physiological or external environmental stimuli (e.g., mechanical, chemical, electrical, or magnetic signals). The last decades have seen exponential growth in the use and development of smart dental biomaterials for antimicrobial applications in dentistry. These biomaterial systems offer improved efficacy and controllable bio-functionalities to prevent infections and extend the longevity of dental devices. This review article presents the current state-of-the-art of design, evaluation, advantages, and limitations of bioactive and stimuli-responsive and autonomous dental materials for antimicrobial applications. First, the importance and classification of smart biomaterials are discussed. Second, the categories of bioresponsive antibacterial dental materials are systematically itemized based on different stimuli, including pH, enzymes, light, magnetic field, and vibrations. For each category, their antimicrobial mechanism, applications, and examples are discussed. Finally, we examined the limitations and obstacles required to develop clinically relevant applications of these appealing technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolina Montoya
- Department of Oral Health Sciences, Kornberg School of Dentistry, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Lina Roldan
- Department of Oral Health Sciences, Kornberg School of Dentistry, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Bioengineering Research Group (GIB), Universidad EAFIT, Medellín, Colombia
| | - Michelle Yu
- Department of Oral Health Sciences, Kornberg School of Dentistry, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Sara Valliani
- Department of Oral Health Sciences, Kornberg School of Dentistry, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Christina Ta
- Department of Oral Health Sciences, Kornberg School of Dentistry, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Maobin Yang
- Department of Oral Health Sciences, Kornberg School of Dentistry, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Department of Endodontology, Kornberg School of Dentistry, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Bioengineering Department, College of Engineering, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Santiago Orrego
- Department of Oral Health Sciences, Kornberg School of Dentistry, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Bioengineering Department, College of Engineering, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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13
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Luo X, Li W, Liang Z, Liu Y, Fan DE. Portable Bulk-Water Disinfection by Live Capture of Bacteria with Divergently Branched Porous Graphite in Electric Fields. ACS NANO 2023. [PMID: 37224419 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.2c12229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Easy access to clean water is essential to functioning and development of modern society. However, it remains arduous to develop energy-efficient, facile, and portable water treatment systems for point-of-use (POU) applications, which is particularly imperative for the safety and resilience of society during extreme weather and critical situations. Here, we propose and validate a meritorious working scheme for water disinfection via directly capturing and removing pathogen cells from bulk water using strategically designed three-dimensional (3D) porous dendritic graphite foams (PDGFs) in a high-frequency AC field. The prototype, integrated in a 3D-printed portable water-purification module, can reproducibly remove 99.997% E. coli bacteria in bulk water at a few voltages with among the lowest energy consumption at 435.5 J·L-1. The PDGFs, costing $1.47 per piece, can robustly operate at least 20 times for more than 8 h in total without functional degradation. Furthermore, we successfully unravel the involved disinfection mechanism with one-dimensional Brownian dynamics simulation. The system is practically applied that brings natural water in Waller Creek at UT Austin to the safe drinking level. This research, including the working mechanism based on dendritically porous graphite and the design scheme, could inspire a future device paradigm for POU water treatment.
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14
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Li J, Yu J. Biodegradable Microrobots and Their Biomedical Applications: A Review. NANOMATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 13:nano13101590. [PMID: 37242005 DOI: 10.3390/nano13101590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2023] [Revised: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
During recent years, microrobots have drawn extensive attention owing to their good controllability and great potential in biomedicine. Powered by external physical fields or chemical reactions, these untethered microdevices are promising candidates for in vivo complex tasks, such as targeted delivery, imaging and sensing, tissue engineering, hyperthermia, and assisted fertilization, among others. However, in clinical use, the biodegradability of microrobots is significant for avoiding toxic residue in the human body. The selection of biodegradable materials and the corresponding in vivo environment needed for degradation are increasingly receiving attention in this regard. This review aims at analyzing different types of biodegradable microrobots by critically discussing their advantages and limitations. The chemical degradation mechanisms behind biodegradable microrobots and their typical applications are also thoroughly investigated. Furthermore, we examine their feasibility and deal with the in vivo suitability of different biodegradable microrobots in terms of their degradation mechanisms; pathological environments; and corresponding biomedical applications, especially targeted delivery. Ultimately, we highlight the prevailing obstacles and perspective solutions, ranging from their manufacturing methods, control of movement, and degradation rate to insufficient and limited in vivo tests, that could be of benefit to forthcoming clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinxin Li
- School of Science and Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen 518172, China
| | - Jiangfan Yu
- School of Science and Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen 518172, China
- Shenzhen Institute of Artificial Intelligence and Robotics for Society, Shenzhen 518172, China
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15
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Smart micro- and nanorobots for water purification. NATURE REVIEWS BIOENGINEERING 2023; 1:236-251. [PMID: 37064655 PMCID: PMC9901418 DOI: 10.1038/s44222-023-00025-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Less than 1% of Earth's freshwater reserves is accessible. Industrialization, population growth and climate change are further exacerbating clean water shortage. Current water-remediation treatments fail to remove most pollutants completely or release toxic by-products into the environment. The use of self-propelled programmable micro- and nanoscale synthetic robots is a promising alternative way to improve water monitoring and remediation by overcoming diffusion-limited reactions and promoting interactions with target pollutants, including nano- and microplastics, persistent organic pollutants, heavy metals, oils and pathogenic microorganisms. This Review introduces the evolution of passive micro- and nanomaterials through active micro- and nanomotors and into advanced intelligent micro- and nanorobots in terms of motion ability, multifunctionality, adaptive response, swarming and mutual communication. After describing removal and degradation strategies, we present the most relevant improvements in water treatment, highlighting the design aspects necessary to improve remediation efficiency for specific contaminants. Finally, open challenges and future directions are discussed for the real-world application of smart micro- and nanorobots.
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16
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Mayorga-Martinez CC, Castoralova M, Zelenka J, Ruml T, Pumera M. Swarming Magnetic Microrobots for Pathogen Isolation from Milk. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2023; 19:e2205047. [PMID: 36475385 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202205047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2022] [Revised: 11/01/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Bovine mastitis produced by Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) causes major problems in milk production due to the staphylococcal enterotoxins produced by this bacterium. These enterotoxins are stable and cannot be eradicated easily by common hygienic procedures once they are formed in dairy products. Here, magnetic microrobots (MagRobots) are developed based on paramagnetic hybrid microstructures loaded with IgG from rabbit serum that can bind and isolate S. aureus from milk in a concentration of 3.42 104 CFU g-1 (allowable minimum level established by the United States Food and Drug Administration, FDA). Protein A, which is present on the cell wall of S. aureus, selectively binds IgG from rabbit serum and loads the bacteria onto the surface of the MagRobots. The selective isolation of S. aureus is confirmed using a mixed suspension of S. aureus and Escherichia coli (E. coli). Moreover, this fuel-free system based on magnetic robots does not affect the natural milk microbiota or add any toxic compound resulting from fuel catalysis. This system can be used to isolate and transport efficiently S. aureus and discriminate it from nontarget bacteria for subsequent identification. Finally, this system can be scaled up for industrial use in food production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmen C Mayorga-Martinez
- Center for Advanced Functional Nanorobots, Department of Inorganic Chemistry, University of Chemistry and Technology Prague, Technicka 5, 166 28, Czech Republic
| | - Marketa Castoralova
- Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, University of Chemistry and Technology Prague, Technicka 5, 166 28, Czech Republic
| | - Jaroslav Zelenka
- Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, University of Chemistry and Technology Prague, Technicka 5, 166 28, Czech Republic
| | - Tomas Ruml
- Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, University of Chemistry and Technology Prague, Technicka 5, 166 28, Czech Republic
| | - Martin Pumera
- Center for Advanced Functional Nanorobots, Department of Inorganic Chemistry, University of Chemistry and Technology Prague, Technicka 5, 166 28, Czech Republic
- Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, VSB - Technical University of Ostrava, 17. listopadu 2172/15, Ostrava, 70800, Czech Republic
- Department of Medical Research, China Medical University Hospital, China Medical University, No. 91 Hsueh-Shih Road, Taichung, 40402, Taiwan
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Yonsei University, 50 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, 03722, Korea
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Dong Y, Wang L, Zhang Z, Ji F, Chan TKF, Yang H, Chan CPL, Yang Z, Chen Z, Chang WT, Chan JYK, Sung JJY, Zhang L. Endoscope-assisted magnetic helical micromachine delivery for biofilm eradication in tympanostomy tube. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2022; 8:eabq8573. [PMID: 36206344 PMCID: PMC9544342 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.abq8573] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
Occlusion of the T-tube (tympanostomy tube) is a common postoperative sequela related to bacterial biofilms. Confronting biofilm-related infections of T-tubes, maneuverable and effective treatments are still challenging presently. Here, we propose an endoscopy-assisted treatment procedure based on the wobbling Fe2O3 helical micromachine (HMM) with peroxidase-mimicking activity. Different from the ideal corkscrew motion, the Fe2O3 HMM applies a wobbling motion in the tube, inducing stronger mechanical force and fluid convections, which not only damages the biofilm occlusion into debris quickly but also enhances the catalytic generation and diffusion of reactive oxygen species (ROS) for killing bacteria cells. Moreover, the treatment procedure, which integrated the delivery, actuation, and retrieval of Fe2O3 HMM, was validated in the T-tube implanted in a human cadaver ex vivo. It enables the visual operation with ease and is gentle to the tympanic membrane and ossicles, which is promising in the clinical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Dong
- Department of Mechanical and Automation Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Lu Wang
- Department of Mechanical and Automation Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Multi-Scale Medical Robotics Center, Hong Kong Science Park, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Zifeng Zhang
- Department of Mechanical and Automation Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Fengtong Ji
- Department of Mechanical and Automation Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Tony K. F. Chan
- Multi-Scale Medical Robotics Center, Hong Kong Science Park, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Chow Yuk Ho Technology Centre for Innovative Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Haojin Yang
- Department of Mechanical and Automation Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Catherine P. L. Chan
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Zhengxin Yang
- Department of Mechanical and Automation Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Zigui Chen
- Department of Microbiology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Wai Tsz Chang
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Corresponding author. (L.Z.); (J.Y.K.C.); (W.T.C.)
| | - Jason Y. K. Chan
- Multi-Scale Medical Robotics Center, Hong Kong Science Park, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Corresponding author. (L.Z.); (J.Y.K.C.); (W.T.C.)
| | - Joseph J. Y. Sung
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore
| | - Li Zhang
- Department of Mechanical and Automation Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Multi-Scale Medical Robotics Center, Hong Kong Science Park, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Chow Yuk Ho Technology Centre for Innovative Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- CUHK T Stone Robotics Institute, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Department of Surgery, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Corresponding author. (L.Z.); (J.Y.K.C.); (W.T.C.)
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Contemporary Tools for the Cure against Pernicious Microorganisms: Micro-/Nanorobots. PROSTHESIS 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/prosthesis4030034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
One of the most pressing concerns to global public health is the emergence of drug-resistant pathogenic microorganisms due to increased unconscious antibiotic usage. With the rising antibiotic resistance, existing antimicrobial agents lose their effectiveness over time. This indicates that newer and more effective antimicrobial agents and methods should be investigated. Many studies have shown that micro-/nanorobots exhibit promise in the treatment of microbial infections with their great properties, such as the intrinsic antimicrobial activities owing to their oxidative stress induction and metal ion release capabilities, and effective and autonomous delivery of antibiotics to the target area. In addition, they have multiple simultaneous mechanisms of action against microbes, which makes them remarkable in antimicrobial activity. This review focuses on the antimicrobial micro-/nanorobots and their strategies to impede biofilm formation, following a brief introduction of the latest advancements in micro-/nanorobots, and their implementations against various bacteria, and other microorganisms.
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