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Tan L, Cappelleri DJ. Responsive Hydrogel-Based Modular Microrobots for Multi-Functional Micromanipulation. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2024:e2404311. [PMID: 39040007 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202404311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 07/24/2024]
Abstract
Microrobots show great potential in biomedical applications such as drug delivery and cell manipulations. However, current microrobots are mostly fabricated as a single entity and type and the tasks they can perform are limited. In this paper, modular microrobots, with an overall size of 120 µm × 200 µm, are proposed with responsive mating components, made from stimuli-responsive hydrogels, and application specific end-effectors for microassembly tasks. The modular microrobots are fabricated based on photolithography and two-photon polymerization together or separately. Two types of modular microrobots are created based on the location of the responsive mating component. The first type of modular microrobot has a mating component that can shrink upon stimulation, while the second type has a double bilayer structure that can realize an open and close motion. The exchange of end-effectors with an identical actuation base is demonstrated for both types of microrobots. Finally, different manipulation tasks are performed with different types of end-effectors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liyuan Tan
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, 47907, USA
| | - David J Cappelleri
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, 47907, USA
- Weldon School of Biomedical Engineering, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, 47907, USA
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2
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Ghosh S, Bhaskar R, Mishra R, Arockia Babu M, Abomughaid MM, Jha NK, Sinha JK. Neurological insights into brain-targeted cancer therapy and bioinspired microrobots. Drug Discov Today 2024; 29:104105. [PMID: 39029869 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2024.104105] [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: 04/09/2024] [Revised: 07/03/2024] [Accepted: 07/12/2024] [Indexed: 07/21/2024]
Abstract
Cancer, a multifaceted and pernicious disease, continuously challenges medicine, requiring innovative treatments. Brain cancers pose unique and daunting challenges due to the intricacies of the central nervous system and the blood-brain barrier. In this era of precision medicine, the convergence of neurology, oncology, and cutting-edge technology has given birth to a promising avenue - targeted cancer therapy. Furthermore, bioinspired microrobots have emerged as an ingenious approach to drug delivery, enabling precision and control in cancer treatment. This Keynote review explores the intricate web of neurological insights into brain-targeted cancer therapy and the paradigm-shifting world of bioinspired microrobots. It serves as a critical and comprehensive overview of these evolving fields, aiming to underscore their integration and potential for revolutionary cancer treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shampa Ghosh
- GloNeuro, Sector 107, Vishwakarma Road, Noida, Uttar Pradesh 201301, India
| | - Rakesh Bhaskar
- School of Chemical Engineering, Yeungnam University, Gyeonsang 38541, Republic of Korea; Research Institute of Cell Culture, Yeungnam University, Gyeonsang 38541, Republic of Korea
| | - Richa Mishra
- Department of Computer Science and Engineering, Parul University, Vadodara, Gujrat 391760, India
| | - M Arockia Babu
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Research, GLA University, Mathura, India
| | - Mosleh Mohammad Abomughaid
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, University of Bisha, Bisha 61922, Saudi Arabia
| | - Niraj Kumar Jha
- Centre of Research Impact and Outcome, Chitkara University, Rajpura 140401, Punjab, India; Centre for Global Health Research, Saveetha Medical College, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Saveetha University, Chennai, India; School of Bioengineering & Biosciences, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara 144411, India; Department of Biotechnology Engineering and Food Technology, Chandigarh University, Mohali, India.
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3
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Oda H, Shimizu N, Morimoto Y, Takeuchi S. Harnessing the Propulsive Force of Microalgae with Microtrap to Drive Micromachines. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2024:e2402923. [PMID: 38973080 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202402923] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2024] [Revised: 06/02/2024] [Indexed: 07/09/2024]
Abstract
Microorganisms possess remarkable locomotion abilities, making them potential candidates for micromachine propulsion. Here, the use of Chlamydomonas Reinhardtii (CR) is explored, a motile green alga, as a micromotor by harnessing its propulsive force with microtraps. The objectives include developing the microtrap structure, evaluating trapping efficiency, and investigating the movement dynamics of biohybrid micromachines driven by CR. Experimental analysis demonstrates that trap design significantly influences trapping efficiency, with a specific trap configuration (multi-ring structure with diameters of 7 µm - 10 µm - 13 µm) showing the highest effectiveness. The micromachine empowered with two CRs facing the same direction exhibits complex, random-like motion with yaw, pitch, and roll movements, while the micromachine with four CRs in a circular position each facing the tangential direction of the circle demonstrates controlled rotational motion. These findings highlight the degree of freedom and movement potential of biohybrid micromachines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haruka Oda
- Graduate School of Information Science and Technology, Department of Mechano-Infomatics, the University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Bunkyo-ku, Hongo, Tokyo, 113-8656, Japan
| | - Naoto Shimizu
- Graduate School of Information Science and Technology, Department of Mechano-Infomatics, the University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Bunkyo-ku, Hongo, Tokyo, 113-8656, Japan
| | - Yuya Morimoto
- Graduate School of Information Science and Technology, Department of Mechano-Infomatics, the University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Bunkyo-ku, Hongo, Tokyo, 113-8656, Japan
| | - Shoji Takeuchi
- Graduate School of Information Science and Technology, Department of Mechano-Infomatics, the University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Bunkyo-ku, Hongo, Tokyo, 113-8656, Japan
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4
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Dutta SD, Luthfikasari R, Patil TV, Ganguly K, Seol Y, Randhawa A, Lim KT. Sunflower Pollen-Morphology Mimicked Spiky Zinc Nanomotors as a Photosensitizer for Killing Bacteria and Cancer Cells. ACS APPLIED BIO MATERIALS 2024; 7:3731-3745. [PMID: 38842103 DOI: 10.1021/acsabm.4c00092] [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] [Indexed: 06/07/2024]
Abstract
Photosensitizing agents have received increased attention from the medical community, owing to their higher photothermal efficiency, induction of hyperthermia, and sustained delivery of bioactive molecules to their targets. Micro/nanorobots can be used as ideal photosensitizing agents by utilizing various physical stimuli for the targeted killing of pathogens (e.g., bacteria) and cancer cells. Herein, we report sunflower-pollen-inspired spiky zinc oxide (s-ZnO)-based nanorobots that effectively kill bacteria and cancer cells under near-infrared (NIR) light irradiation. The as-fabricated s-ZnO was modified with a catechol-containing photothermal agent, polydopamine (PDA), to improve its NIR-responsive properties, followed by the addition of antimicrobial (e.g., tetracycline/TCN) and anticancer (e.g., doxorubicin/DOX) drugs. The fabricated s-ZnO/PDA@Drug nanobots exhibited unique locomotory behavior with an average speed ranging from 13 to 14 μm/s under 2.0 W/cm2 NIR light irradiation. Moreover, the s-ZnO/PDA@TCN nanobots exhibited superior antibacterial activity against E. coli and S. epidermidis under NIR irradiation. The s-ZnO/PDA@DOX nanobots also displayed sufficient reactive oxygen species (ROS) amplification in B16F10 melanoma cells and induced apoptosis under NIR light, indicating their therapeutic efficacy. We hope the sunflower pollen-inspired s-ZnO nanorobots have tremendous potential in biomedical engineering from the phototherapy perspective, with the hope to reduce pathogen infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sayan Deb Dutta
- Department of Biosystems Engineering, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 24341, Gangwon-do, Republic of Korea
- Institute of Forest Science, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 24341, Gangwon-do, Republic of Korea
- Center for Surgical Bioengineering, School of Medicine, University of California Davis, Davis, California 95817, United States
| | - Rachmi Luthfikasari
- Department of Biosystems Engineering, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 24341, Gangwon-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Tejal V Patil
- Department of Biosystems Engineering, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 24341, Gangwon-do, Republic of Korea
- Interdisciplinary Program in Smart Agriculture, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 24341, Gangwon-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Keya Ganguly
- Department of Biosystems Engineering, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 24341, Gangwon-do, Republic of Korea
- Institute of Forest Science, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 24341, Gangwon-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Youjin Seol
- Department of Biosystems Engineering, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 24341, Gangwon-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Aayushi Randhawa
- Department of Biosystems Engineering, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 24341, Gangwon-do, Republic of Korea
- Interdisciplinary Program in Smart Agriculture, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 24341, Gangwon-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Ki-Taek Lim
- Department of Biosystems Engineering, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 24341, Gangwon-do, Republic of Korea
- Institute of Forest Science, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 24341, Gangwon-do, Republic of Korea
- Interdisciplinary Program in Smart Agriculture, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 24341, Gangwon-do, Republic of Korea
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5
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Chen X, Liu S, Shen M, Shi J, Wu C, Song Z, Zhao Y. Dielectrophoretic characterization and selection of non-spherical flagellate algae in parallel channels with right-angle bipolar electrodes. LAB ON A CHIP 2024; 24:2506-2517. [PMID: 38619815 DOI: 10.1039/d4lc00165f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/16/2024]
Abstract
Non-spherical flagellate algae play an increasingly significant role in handling problematic issues as versatile biological micro/nanorobots and resources of valuable bioproducts. However, the commensalism of flagellate algae with distinct structures and constituents causes considerable difficulties in their further biological utilization. Therefore, it is imperative to develop a novel method to realize high-efficiency selection of non-spherical flagellate algae in a non-invasive manner. Enthused by these, we proposed a novel method to accomplish the selection of flagellate algae based on the numerical and experimental investigation of dielectrophoretic characterizations of flagellate algae. Firstly, an arbitrary Lagrangian-Eulerian method was utilized to study the electro-orientation and dielectrophoretic assembly process of spindle-shaped and ellipsoid-shaped cells in a uniform electric field. Secondly, we studied the equilibrium state of spherical, ellipsoid-shaped, and spindle-shaped cells under positive DEP forces actuated by right-angle bipolar electrodes. Thirdly, we investigated the dielectrophoretic assembly and escape processes of the non-spherical flagellate algae in continuous flow to explore their influences on the selection. Fourthly, freshwater flagellate algae (Euglena, H. pluvialis, and C. reinhardtii) and marine ones (Euglena, Dunaliella salina, and Platymonas) were separated to validate the feasibility and adaptability of this method. Finally, this approach was engineered in the selection of Euglena cells with high viability and motility. This method presents immense prospects in the selection of pure non-spherical flagellate algae with high motility for chronic wound healing, bio-micromotor construction, and decontamination with advantages of no sheath, strong reliability, and shape-insensitivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoming Chen
- School of Control Engineering, Northeastern University at Qinhuangdao, Qinhuangdao 066004, PR China.
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Micro-Nano Precision Optical Sensing and Measurement Technology, Qinhuangdao, 066004, PR China.
| | - Shun Liu
- School of Control Engineering, Northeastern University at Qinhuangdao, Qinhuangdao 066004, PR China.
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Micro-Nano Precision Optical Sensing and Measurement Technology, Qinhuangdao, 066004, PR China.
| | - Mo Shen
- School of Control Engineering, Northeastern University at Qinhuangdao, Qinhuangdao 066004, PR China.
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Micro-Nano Precision Optical Sensing and Measurement Technology, Qinhuangdao, 066004, PR China.
| | - Jishun Shi
- School of Control Engineering, Northeastern University at Qinhuangdao, Qinhuangdao 066004, PR China.
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Micro-Nano Precision Optical Sensing and Measurement Technology, Qinhuangdao, 066004, PR China.
| | - Chungang Wu
- School of Control Engineering, Northeastern University at Qinhuangdao, Qinhuangdao 066004, PR China.
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Micro-Nano Precision Optical Sensing and Measurement Technology, Qinhuangdao, 066004, PR China.
| | - Zhipeng Song
- School of Control Engineering, Northeastern University at Qinhuangdao, Qinhuangdao 066004, PR China.
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Micro-Nano Precision Optical Sensing and Measurement Technology, Qinhuangdao, 066004, PR China.
| | - Yong Zhao
- School of Control Engineering, Northeastern University at Qinhuangdao, Qinhuangdao 066004, PR China.
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Micro-Nano Precision Optical Sensing and Measurement Technology, Qinhuangdao, 066004, PR China.
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Mirkhani N, Christiansen MG, Gwisai T, Menghini S, Schuerle S. Spatially selective delivery of living magnetic microrobots through torque-focusing. Nat Commun 2024; 15:2160. [PMID: 38461256 PMCID: PMC10924878 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-46407-4] [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: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Rotating magnetic fields enable biomedical microrobots to overcome physiological barriers and promote extravasation and accumulation in tumors. Nevertheless, targeting deeply situated tumors requires suppression of off-target actuation in healthy tissue. Here, we investigate a control strategy for applying spatially selective torque density to microrobots by combining rotating fields with magnetostatic selection fields. Taking magnetotactic bacteria as diffuse torque-based actuators, we numerically model off-target torque suppression, indicating the feasibility of centimeter to millimeter resolution for human applications. We study focal torque application in vitro, observing off-target suppression of actuation-dependent effects such as colonization of bacteria in tumor spheroids. We then design and construct a mouse-scale torque-focusing apparatus capable of maneuvering the focal point. Applying this system to a mouse tumor model increased accumulation of intravenously injected bacteria within tumors receiving focused actuation compared to non-actuated or globally actuated groups. This control scheme combines the advantages of torque-based actuation with spatial targeting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nima Mirkhani
- Institute for Translational Medicine, Department of Health Sciences and Technology, ETH Zurich, CH-8092, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Michael G Christiansen
- Institute for Translational Medicine, Department of Health Sciences and Technology, ETH Zurich, CH-8092, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Tinotenda Gwisai
- Institute for Translational Medicine, Department of Health Sciences and Technology, ETH Zurich, CH-8092, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Stefano Menghini
- Institute for Translational Medicine, Department of Health Sciences and Technology, ETH Zurich, CH-8092, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Simone Schuerle
- Institute for Translational Medicine, Department of Health Sciences and Technology, ETH Zurich, CH-8092, Zurich, Switzerland.
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Pontius MHH, Ku CJ, Osmond MJ, Disharoon D, Liu Y, Warnock M, Lawrence DA, Marr DWM, Neeves KB, Shavit JA. Magnetically powered microwheel thrombolysis of occlusive thrombi in zebrafish. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2024; 121:e2315083121. [PMID: 38408253 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2315083121] [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: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) is the only FDA-approved treatment for ischemic stroke but carries significant risks, including major hemorrhage. Additional options are needed, especially in small vessel thrombi which account for ~25% of ischemic strokes. We have previously shown that tPA-functionalized colloidal microparticles can be assembled into microwheels (µwheels) and manipulated under the control of applied magnetic fields to enable rapid thrombolysis of fibrin gels in microfluidic models of thrombosis. Transparent zebrafish larvae have a highly conserved coagulation cascade that enables studies of hemostasis and thrombosis in the context of intact vasculature, clotting factors, and blood cells. Here, we show that tPA-functionalized µwheels can perform rapid and targeted recanalization in vivo. This effect requires both tPA and µwheels, as minimal to no recanalization is achieved with tPA alone, µwheels alone, or tPA-functionalized microparticles in the absence of a magnetic field. We evaluated tPA-functionalized µwheels in CRISPR-generated plasminogen (plg) heterozygous and homozygous mutants and confirmed that tPA-functionalized µwheels are dose-dependent on plasminogen for lysis. We have found that magnetically powered µwheels as a targeted tPA delivery system are dramatically more efficient at plasmin-mediated thrombolysis than systemic delivery in vivo. Further development of this system in fish and mammalian models could enable a less invasive strategy for alleviating ischemia that is safer than directed thrombectomy or systemic infusion of tPA.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Hao Hao Pontius
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109
| | - Chia-Jui Ku
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109
| | - Matthew J Osmond
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Colorado School of Mines, Golden, CO 80401
| | - Dante Disharoon
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Colorado School of Mines, Golden, CO 80401
| | - Yang Liu
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109
| | - Mark Warnock
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109
| | - Daniel A Lawrence
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109
| | - David W M Marr
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Colorado School of Mines, Golden, CO 80401
| | - Keith B Neeves
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Colorado, Denver, Aurora, CO 80045
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado, Denver, Aurora, CO 80045
| | - Jordan A Shavit
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109
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8
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Wang X, Pu W, Zhang R, Wei F. Inchworm-like Soft Robot with Multi-Responsive Bilayer Films. Biomimetics (Basel) 2023; 8:443. [PMID: 37754194 PMCID: PMC10526967 DOI: 10.3390/biomimetics8050443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Revised: 09/12/2023] [Accepted: 09/16/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
As an important branch of robotics, soft robots have the advantages of strong flexibility, a simple structure, and high safety. These characteristics enable soft robots to be widely used in various fields such as biomedicine, military reconnaissance, and micro space exploration. However, contemporary soft crawling robots still face problems such as the single drive mode and complex external equipment. In this study, we propose an innovative design of an inchworm-like soft crawling robot utilizing the synergistic interaction of electricity and moisture for its hybrid dual-drive locomotion. The legs of the soft robot are mainly made of GO-CNT/PE composite film, which can convert its own volume expansion into a corresponding bending motion after being stimulated by electricity or moisture. Unlike other drive methods, it requires less power and precision from external devices. The combination of the two driving methods greatly improves the environmental adaptability of the soft robot, and we developed visible light as the driving method on the basis of the dual drive. Finally, we also verified the robot's excellent load capacity, climbing ability, and optical drive effect, which laid the foundation for the application of soft robots in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Fanan Wei
- School of Mechanical Engineering and Automation, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350108, China; (X.W.); (W.P.); (R.Z.)
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9
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Pontius MHH, Ku CJ, Osmond M, Disharoon D, Liu Y, Marr DW, Neeves KB, Shavit JA. Magnetically Powered Microwheel Thrombolysis of Occlusive Thrombi in Zebrafish. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.09.11.557256. [PMID: 37745422 PMCID: PMC10515822 DOI: 10.1101/2023.09.11.557256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/26/2023]
Abstract
Tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) is the only FDA approved treatment for ischemic stroke but carries significant risks, including major hemorrhage. Additional options are needed, especially in small vessel thrombi which account for ~25% of ischemic strokes. We have previously shown that tPA-functionalized colloidal microparticles can be assembled into microwheels (µwheels) and manipulated under the control of applied magnetic fields to enable rapid thrombolysis of fibrin gels in microfluidic models of thrombosis. Providing a living microfluidic analog, transparent zebrafish larvae have a highly conserved coagulation cascade that enables studies of hemostasis and thrombosis in the context of intact vasculature, clotting factors, and blood cells. Here we show that tPA-functionalized µwheels can perform rapid and targeted recanalization in vivo. This effect requires both tPA and µwheels, as minimal to no recanalization is achieved with tPA alone, µwheels alone, or tPA-functionalized microparticles in the absence of a magnetic field. We evaluated tPA-µwheels in CRISPR-generated plasminogen (plg) heterozygous and homozygous mutants and confirmed that tPA-µwheels are dose-dependent on plasminogen for lysis. We have found that magnetically powered µwheels as a targeted tPA delivery system are dramatically more efficient at plasmin-mediated thrombolysis than systemic delivery in vivo. Further development of this system in fish and mammalian models could enable a less invasive strategy for alleviating ischemia that is safer than directed thrombectomy or systemic infusion of tPA.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Chia-Jui Ku
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Matthew Osmond
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Colorado School of Mines, Golden, CO
| | - Dante Disharoon
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Colorado School of Mines, Golden, CO
| | - Yang Liu
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - David W.M. Marr
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Colorado School of Mines, Golden, CO
| | - Keith B. Neeves
- Departments of Bioengineering and Pediatrics, University of Colorado, Denver | Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO
| | - Jordan A. Shavit
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
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10
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Chen S, Tan Z, Liao P, Li Y, Qu Y, Zhang Q, Yang M, Chan KWY, Zhang L, Man K, Chen Z, Sun D. Biodegradable Microrobots for DNA Vaccine Delivery. Adv Healthc Mater 2023; 12:e2202921. [PMID: 37156574 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202202921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2022] [Revised: 04/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
The delivery of nucleic acid vaccine to stimulate host immune responses against Coronavirus disease 2019 shows promise. However, nucleic acid vaccines have drawbacks, including rapid clearance and poor cellular uptake, that limit their therapeutic potential. Microrobots can be engineered to sustain vaccine release and further control the interactions with immune cells that are vital for robust vaccination. Here, the 3D fabrication of biocompatible and biodegradable microrobots via the two-photon polymerization of gelatin methacryloyl (GelMA) and their proof-of-concept application for DNA vaccine delivery is reported. Programmed degradation and drug release by varying the local exposure dose in 3D laser lithography and further functionalized the GelMA microspheres with polyethyleneimine for DNA vaccine delivery to dendritic cell and primary cells is demonstrated. In mice, the DNA vaccine delivered by functionalized microspheres elicited fast, enhanced, and durable antigen expression, which may lead to prolonged protection. Furthermore, we demonstrate the maneuverability of microrobots by fabricating GelMA microspheres on magnetic skeletons. In conclusion, GelMA microrobots may provide an efficient vaccination strategy by controlling the expression duration of DNA vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuxun Chen
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, China
| | - Zhiwu Tan
- AIDS Institute and Department of Microbiology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, China
| | - Pan Liao
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, China
| | - Yanfang Li
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, China
| | - Yun Qu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, China
| | - Qi Zhang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, China
| | - Mingxuan Yang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, China
| | - Kannie Wai Yan Chan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, China
| | - Li Zhang
- Department of Mechanical and Automation Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, China
| | - Kwan Man
- Department of Surgery, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, China
| | - Zhiwei Chen
- AIDS Institute and Department of Microbiology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, China
- State Key Laboratory for Emerging Infectious Diseases, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, China
| | - Dong Sun
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, China
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11
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Di Trapani F, Franosch T, Caraglio M. Active Brownian particles in a circular disk with an absorbing boundary. Phys Rev E 2023; 107:064123. [PMID: 37464643 DOI: 10.1103/physreve.107.064123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2023] [Accepted: 04/27/2023] [Indexed: 07/20/2023]
Abstract
We solve the time-dependent Fokker-Planck equation for a two-dimensional active Brownian particle exploring a circular region with an absorbing boundary. Using the passive Brownian particle as basis states and dealing with the activity as a perturbation, we provide a matrix representation of the Fokker-Planck operator and we express the propagator in terms of the perturbed eigenvalues and eigenfunctions. Alternatively, we show that the propagator can be expressed as a combination of the equilibrium eigenstates with weights depending only on time and on the initial conditions, and obeying exact iterative relations. Our solution allows also obtaining the survival probability and the first-passage time distribution. These latter quantities exhibit peculiarities induced by the nonequilibrium character of the dynamics; in particular, they display a strong dependence on the activity of the particle and, to a less extent, also on its rotational diffusivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Di Trapani
- Institut für Theoretische Physik, Universität Innsbruck, Technikerstraße 21A, A-6020 Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Thomas Franosch
- Institut für Theoretische Physik, Universität Innsbruck, Technikerstraße 21A, A-6020 Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Michele Caraglio
- Institut für Theoretische Physik, Universität Innsbruck, Technikerstraße 21A, A-6020 Innsbruck, Austria
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12
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Wang T, Yin Q, Huang HY, Wang Z, Song H, Luo X. Probiotic Escherichia coli Nissle 1917 propelled micro-robot with pH sensitivity for hypoxia targeted intestinal tumor therapy. Colloids Surf B Biointerfaces 2023; 225:113277. [PMID: 36996630 DOI: 10.1016/j.colsurfb.2023.113277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2023] [Revised: 03/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023]
Abstract
Poor drug penetration in hypoxia area of solid tumor is a big challenge for intestinal tumor therapy and thus it is crucial to develop an effective strategy to overcome this challenge. Compared with other bacteria used for construction of hypoxia targeted bacteria micro-robot, the Escherichia coli Nissle 1917 (EcN) bacteria are nonpathogenic Gram-negative probiotic and can especially target and identify the signal molecules in the hypoxic region of tumor, and thus, in this study, we choose EcN to construct a bacteria propelled micro-robot for targeting intestinal tumor therapy. Firstly, the MSNs@DOX with average diameter of 200 nm were synthesized and conjugated with EcN bacteria using EDC/NHS chemical crosslinking method to construct a EcN propelled micro-robot. The motility of micro-robot was then evaluated and the motion velocity of EcN-pMSNs@DOX was 3.78 µm/s. Compared with pMSNs@DOX without EcN driven, EcN bacteria propelled micro-robot transported much more pMSNs@DOX into the inner of HCT-116 3D multicellular tumor spheroids. However, the EcN bacteria are non-intracelluar bacteria which lead to the micro-robot can not directly enter into tumor cells. Therefore, we utilized acid-labile linkers of cis-aconitic amido bone to link EcN with MSNs@DOX nanoparticles to achieve the pH sensitive separation of EcN with MSNs@DOX from the micro-robot. At 4 h of incubation, the isolated MSNs@DOX began to enter into the tumor cells through CLSM observation. In vitro live/dead staining results show that EcN-pMSNs@DOX induced much more cell death than pMSNs@DOX at 24 and 48 h of incubation with HCT-116 tumor cells in acid culture media (pH 5.3). For the validation of the therapeutic efficacy of the micro-robot for intestinal tumor, we established the HCT-116 subcutaneous transplantation tumor model. After 28 days of treatment, EcN-pMSNs@DOX dramatically inhibit tumor growth with tumor volume was around 689 mm3, induce much more tumor tissues necrosis and apoptosis. Finally, the toxicity of this micro-robot was investigated by pathological analysis the liver and heart tissues. We expect that the pH sensitive EcN propelled micro-robot here we constructed may be a safe and feasible strategy for intestinal tumor therapy.
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13
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Abstract
Untethered robots in the size range of micro/nano-scale offer unprecedented access to hard-to-reach areas of the body. In these challenging environments, autonomous task completion capabilities of micro/nanorobots have been the subject of research in recent years. However, most of the studies have presented preliminary in vitro results that can significantly differ under in vivo settings. Here, we focus on the studies conducted with animal models to reveal the current status of micro/nanorobotic applications in real-world conditions. By a categorization based on target locations, we highlight the main strategies employed in organs and other body parts. We also discuss key challenges that require interest before the successful translation of micro/nanorobots to the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cagatay M Oral
- Future Energy and Innovation Laboratory, Central European Institute of Technology, Brno University of Technology, Purkynova 123, 61200, Brno, Czech Republic.
| | - Martin Pumera
- Future Energy and Innovation Laboratory, Central European Institute of Technology, Brno University of Technology, Purkynova 123, 61200, Brno, Czech Republic.
- Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, VSB - Technical University of Ostrava, 17. Listopadu 2172/15, 70800, Ostrava, Czech Republic
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14
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Sridhar V, Yildiz E, Rodríguez-Camargo A, Lyu X, Yao L, Wrede P, Aghakhani A, Akolpoglu BM, Podjaski F, Lotsch BV, Sitti M. Designing Covalent Organic Framework-Based Light-Driven Microswimmers toward Therapeutic Applications. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2023:e2301126. [PMID: 37003701 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202301126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2023] [Revised: 03/18/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
While micromachines with tailored functionalities enable therapeutic applications in biological environments, their controlled motion and targeted drug delivery in biological media require sophisticated designs for practical applications. Covalent organic frameworks (COFs), a new generation of crystalline and nanoporous polymers, offer new perspectives for light-driven microswimmers in heterogeneous biological environments including intraocular fluids, thus setting the stage for biomedical applications such as retinal drug delivery. Two different types of COFs, uniformly spherical TABP-PDA-COF sub-micrometer particles and texturally nanoporous, micrometer-sized TpAzo-COF particles are described and compared as light-driven microrobots. They can be used as highly efficient visible-light-driven drug carriers in aqueous ionic and cellular media. Their absorption ranging down to red light enables phototaxis even in deeper and viscous biological media, while the organic nature of COFs ensures their biocompatibility. Their inherently porous structures with ≈2.6 and ≈3.4 nm pores, and large surface areas allow for targeted and efficient drug loading even for insoluble drugs, which can be released on demand. Additionally, indocyanine green (ICG) dye loading in the pores enables photoacoustic imaging, optical coherence tomography, and hyperthermia in operando conditions. This real-time visualization of the drug-loaded COF microswimmers enables unique insights into the action of photoactive porous drug carriers for therapeutic applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Varun Sridhar
- Physical Intelligence Department, Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems, 70569, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Erdost Yildiz
- Physical Intelligence Department, Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems, 70569, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Andrés Rodríguez-Camargo
- Nanochemistry Department, Max Planck Institute for Solid State Research, 70569, Stuttgart, Germany
- Department of Chemistry, University of Stuttgart, 70569, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Xianglong Lyu
- Physical Intelligence Department, Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems, 70569, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Liang Yao
- Nanochemistry Department, Max Planck Institute for Solid State Research, 70569, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Paul Wrede
- Physical Intelligence Department, Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems, 70569, Stuttgart, Germany
- Institute for Biomedical Engineering, ETH Zurich, 8092, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Amirreza Aghakhani
- Physical Intelligence Department, Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems, 70569, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Birgul M Akolpoglu
- Physical Intelligence Department, Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems, 70569, Stuttgart, Germany
- Institute for Biomedical Engineering, ETH Zurich, 8092, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Filip Podjaski
- Nanochemistry Department, Max Planck Institute for Solid State Research, 70569, Stuttgart, Germany
- Department of Chemistry, Imperial College London, W12 0BZ, London, UK
| | - Bettina V Lotsch
- Nanochemistry Department, Max Planck Institute for Solid State Research, 70569, Stuttgart, Germany
- Department of Chemistry, University of Stuttgart, 70569, Stuttgart, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence e-conversion, 85748, Lichtenbergstrasse 4, Garching, Germany
- Department of Chemistry, University of Munich (LMU), 81377, Munich, Germany
| | - Metin Sitti
- Physical Intelligence Department, Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems, 70569, Stuttgart, Germany
- Institute for Biomedical Engineering, ETH Zurich, 8092, Zurich, Switzerland
- School of Medicine and College of Engineering, Koç University, 34450, Istanbul, Turkey
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15
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Bernasconi R, Carniani D, Kim MS, Pané S, Magagnin L. Inkjet-Assisted Electroformation of Magnetically Guidable Water Striders for Interfacial Microfluidic Manipulation. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2023; 15:2396-2408. [PMID: 36512696 PMCID: PMC9837820 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.2c17792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2022] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Gerridae, colloquially called water striders, are a peculiar class of insects characterized by the extraordinary ability to walk on the surface of water bodies. Owing to this capacity, they constitute an ideal source of inspiration for designing untethered microdevices capable of navigating the interface between two fluids. Such steerable micrometric objects can be of great interest for various applications, ranging from the handling of floating objects to the remote control of microreactions and the manipulation of self-assembled monolayers. This paper describes the realization of artificial water striders via an inkjet-assisted electroforming approach. Inkjet deposition patterns the negative mask, which is subsequently filled with different layers of metals through electroforming. One of such layers is the magnetic alloy NiFe, which allows wireless propulsion of the striders by means of externally applied magnetic fields. The magnetic actuation tests prove good maneuverability at the water-air and silicone oil-air interfaces, with superior control over the speed and position of the devices. The surface of the devices is modified to tune its superficial energy in order to maximize buoyancy on these different combinations of fluids. A magnetic field-controlled strider manipulates a droplet and demonstrates collecting oil microdroplets and synthesizing platinum nanoparticles by chemical microreactions. Finally, the remotely operated microrobot could be employed in laboratories as a real avatar of chemists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Bernasconi
- Dipartimento
di Chimica, Materiali e Ingegneria Chimica “Giulio Natta”, Politecnico di Milano, via Mancinelli 7, 20131Milano, Italy
| | - Davide Carniani
- Dipartimento
di Chimica, Materiali e Ingegneria Chimica “Giulio Natta”, Politecnico di Milano, via Mancinelli 7, 20131Milano, Italy
| | - Min-Soo Kim
- Multi-Scale
Robotics Lab, Institute of Robotics and
Intelligent Systems, ETH Zurich, Tannenstrasse 3, CH-8092Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Salvador Pané
- Multi-Scale
Robotics Lab, Institute of Robotics and
Intelligent Systems, ETH Zurich, Tannenstrasse 3, CH-8092Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Luca Magagnin
- Dipartimento
di Chimica, Materiali e Ingegneria Chimica “Giulio Natta”, Politecnico di Milano, via Mancinelli 7, 20131Milano, Italy
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16
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Du M, Wang T, Feng R, Zeng P, Chen Z. Establishment of ultrasound-responsive SonoBacteriaBot for targeted drug delivery and controlled release. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2023; 11:1144963. [PMID: 36911192 PMCID: PMC9998949 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2023.1144963] [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: 01/15/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 02/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Bacteria-driven biohybrid microbots have shown great potential in cancer treatment. However, how precisely controlling drug release at the tumor site is still an issue. To overcome the limitation of this system, we proposed the ultrasound-responsive SonoBacteriaBot (DOX-PFP-PLGA@EcM). Doxorubicin (DOX) and perfluoro-n-pentane (PFP) were encapsulated in polylactic acid-glycolic acid (PLGA) to form ultrasound-responsive DOX-PFP-PLGA nanodroplets. Then, DOX-PFP-PLGA@EcM is created by DOX-PFP-PLGA amide-bonded to the surface of E. coli MG1655 (EcM). The DOX-PFP-PLGA@EcM was proved to have the characteristics of high tumor-targeting efficiency, controlled drug release capability, and ultrasound imaging. Based on the acoustic phase change function of nanodroplets, DOX-PFP-PLGA@EcM enhance the signal of US imaging after ultrasound irradiation. Meanwhile, the DOX loaded into DOX-PFP-PLGA@EcM can be released. After being intravenously injected, DOX-PFP-PLGA@EcM can efficiently accumulate in tumors without causing harm to critical organs. In conclusion, the SonoBacteriaBot has significant benefits in real-time monitoring and controlled drug release, which has significant potential applications for therapeutic drug delivery in clinical settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng Du
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Medical Imaging Centre, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, China.,Institute of Medical Imaging, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, China
| | - Ting Wang
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Medical Imaging Centre, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, China.,Institute of Medical Imaging, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, China
| | - Renjie Feng
- Institute of Medical Imaging, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, China.,The Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Hunan Veterans Administration Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Penghui Zeng
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Medical Imaging Centre, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, China.,Institute of Medical Imaging, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, China
| | - Zhiyi Chen
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Medical Imaging Centre, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, China.,Institute of Medical Imaging, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, China.,The Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Hunan Veterans Administration Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Changsha, Hunan, China
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17
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Cao HX, Jung D, Lee HS, Nguyen VD, Choi E, Kim CS, Park JO, Kang B. Fabrication, Acoustic Characterization and Phase Reference-Based Calibration Method for a Single-Sided Multi-Channel Ultrasonic Actuator. MICROMACHINES 2022; 13:2182. [PMID: 36557481 PMCID: PMC9782305 DOI: 10.3390/mi13122182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2022] [Revised: 12/06/2022] [Accepted: 12/07/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
The ultrasonic actuator can be used in medical applications because it is label-free, biocompatible, and has a demonstrated history of safe operation. Therefore, there is an increasing interest in using an ultrasonic actuator in the non-contact manipulation of micromachines in various materials and sizes for therapeutic applications. This research aims to design, fabricate, and characterize a single-sided transducer array with 56 channels operating at 500 kHz, which provide benefits in the penetration of tissue. The fabricated transducer is calibrated using a phase reference calibration method to reduce position misalignment and phase discrepancies caused by acoustic interaction. The acoustic fields generated by the transducer array are measured in a 300 mm × 300 mm × 300 mm container filled with de-ionized water. A hydrophone is used to measure the far field in each transducer array element, and the 3D holographic pattern is analyzed based on the scanned acoustic pressure fields. Next, the phase reference calibration is applied to each transducer in the ultrasonic actuator. As a result, the homogeneity of the acoustic pressure fields surrounding the foci area is improved, and the maximum pressure is also increased in the twin trap. Finally, we demonstrate the capability to trap and manipulate micromachines with acoustic power by generating a twin trap using both optical camera and ultrasound imaging systems in a water medium. This work not only provides a comprehensive study on acoustic actuators but also inspires the next generation to use acoustics in medical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiep Xuan Cao
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Chonnam National University, Gwangju 61186, Republic of Korea
- Korea Institute of Medical Microrobotics, Gwangju 61011, Republic of Korea
| | - Daewon Jung
- Korea Institute of Medical Microrobotics, Gwangju 61011, Republic of Korea
| | - Han-Sol Lee
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Chonnam National University, Gwangju 61186, Republic of Korea
| | - Van Du Nguyen
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Chonnam National University, Gwangju 61186, Republic of Korea
- Korea Institute of Medical Microrobotics, Gwangju 61011, Republic of Korea
| | - Eunpyo Choi
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Chonnam National University, Gwangju 61186, Republic of Korea
- Korea Institute of Medical Microrobotics, Gwangju 61011, Republic of Korea
| | - Chang-Sei Kim
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Chonnam National University, Gwangju 61186, Republic of Korea
| | - Jong-Oh Park
- Korea Institute of Medical Microrobotics, Gwangju 61011, Republic of Korea
| | - Byungjeon Kang
- Korea Institute of Medical Microrobotics, Gwangju 61011, Republic of Korea
- College of AI Convergence, Chonnam National University, Gwangju 61186, Republic of Korea
- Graduate School of Data Science, Chonnam National University, Gwangju 61186, Republic of Korea
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18
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Chesnitskiy AV, Gayduk AE, Seleznev VA, Prinz VY. Bio-Inspired Micro- and Nanorobotics Driven by Magnetic Field. MATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 15:7781. [PMID: 36363368 PMCID: PMC9653604 DOI: 10.3390/ma15217781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2022] [Revised: 10/19/2022] [Accepted: 11/01/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
In recent years, there has been explosive growth in the number of investigations devoted to the development and study of biomimetic micro- and nanorobots. The present review is dedicated to novel bioinspired magnetic micro- and nanodevices that can be remotely controlled by an external magnetic field. This approach to actuate micro- and nanorobots is non-invasive and absolutely harmless for living organisms in vivo and cell microsurgery, and is very promising for medicine in the near future. Particular attention has been paid to the latest advances in the rapidly developing field of designing polymer-based flexible and rigid magnetic composites and fabricating structures inspired by living micro-objects and organisms. The physical principles underlying the functioning of hybrid bio-inspired magnetic miniature robots, sensors, and actuators are considered in this review, and key practical applications and challenges are analyzed as well.
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19
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Dogan NO, Ceylan H, Suadiye E, Sheehan D, Aydin A, Yasa IC, Wild AM, Richter G, Sitti M. Remotely Guided Immunobots Engaged in Anti-Tumorigenic Phenotypes for Targeted Cancer Immunotherapy. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2022; 18:e2204016. [PMID: 36202751 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202204016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2022] [Revised: 09/08/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Building medical microrobots from the body's own cells may circumvent the biocompatibility concern and hence presents more potential in clinical applications to improve the possibility of escaping from the host defense mechanism. More importantly, live cells can enable therapeutically relevant functions with significantly higher efficiency than synthetic systems. Here, live immune cell-derived microrobots from macrophages, i.e., immunobots, which can be remotely steered with externally applied magnetic fields and directed toward anti-tumorigenic (M1) phenotypes, are presented. Macrophages engulf the engineered magnetic decoy bacteria, composed of 0.5 µm diameter silica Janus particles with one side coated with anisotropic FePt magnetic nanofilm and the other side coated with bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS). This study demonstrates the torque-based surface rolling locomotion of the immunobots along assigned trajectories inside blood plasma, over a layer of endothelial cells, and under physiologically relevant flow rates. The immunobots secrete signature M1 cytokines, IL-12 p40, TNF-α, and IL-6, and M1 cell markers, CD80 and iNOS, via toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4)-mediated stimulation with bacterial LPS. The immunobots exhibit anticancer activity against urinary bladder cancer cells. This study further demonstrates such immunobots from freshly isolated primary bone marrow-derived macrophages since patient-derivable macrophages may have a strong clinical potential for future cell therapies in cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nihal Olcay Dogan
- Physical Intelligence Department, Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems, 70569, Stuttgart, Germany
- Institute for Biomedical Engineering, ETH Zurich, Zurich, 8092, Switzerland
| | - Hakan Ceylan
- Physical Intelligence Department, Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems, 70569, Stuttgart, Germany
- Department of Physiology and Biomedical Engineering, Mayo Clinic, Scottsdale, AZ, 85259, USA
| | - Eylül Suadiye
- Materials Central Scientific Facility, Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems, 70569, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Devin Sheehan
- Physical Intelligence Department, Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems, 70569, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Asli Aydin
- Physical Intelligence Department, Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems, 70569, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Immihan Ceren Yasa
- Physical Intelligence Department, Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems, 70569, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Anna-Maria Wild
- Physical Intelligence Department, Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems, 70569, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Gunther Richter
- Materials Central Scientific Facility, Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems, 70569, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Metin Sitti
- Physical Intelligence Department, Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems, 70569, Stuttgart, Germany
- Institute for Biomedical Engineering, ETH Zurich, Zurich, 8092, Switzerland
- School of Medicine and College of Engineering, Koç University, Istanbul, 34450, Turkey
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20
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Caraglio M, Franosch T. Analytic Solution of an Active Brownian Particle in a Harmonic Well. PHYSICAL REVIEW LETTERS 2022; 129:158001. [PMID: 36269953 DOI: 10.1103/physrevlett.129.158001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2022] [Accepted: 09/14/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
We provide an analytical solution for the time-dependent Fokker-Planck equation for a two-dimensional active Brownian particle trapped in an isotropic harmonic potential. Using the passive Brownian particle as basis states we show that the Fokker-Planck operator becomes lower diagonal, implying that the eigenvalues are unaffected by the activity. The propagator is then expressed as a combination of the equilibrium eigenstates with weights obeying exact iterative relations. We show that for the low-order correlation functions, such as the positional autocorrelation function, the recursion terminates at finite order in the Péclet number, allowing us to generate exact compact expressions and derive the velocity autocorrelation function and the time-dependent diffusion coefficient. The nonmonotonic behavior of latter quantities serves as a fingerprint of the nonequilibrium dynamics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michele Caraglio
- Institut für Theoretische Physik, Universität Innsbruck, Technikerstraße 21A, A-6020 Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Thomas Franosch
- Institut für Theoretische Physik, Universität Innsbruck, Technikerstraße 21A, A-6020 Innsbruck, Austria
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21
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van Roon DM, Volpe G, Telo da Gama MM, Araújo NAM. The role of disorder in the motion of chiral active particles in the presence of obstacles. SOFT MATTER 2022; 18:6899-6906. [PMID: 36043894 DOI: 10.1039/d2sm00694d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The presence of obstacles is intuitively expected to hinder the diffusive transport of active particles. However, for chiral active particles, a low density of obstacles near a surface can enhance their diffusive behavior. Here, we study numerically the role that disorder plays in determining the transport dynamics of chiral active particles on surfaces with obstacles. We consider different densities of regularly spaced obstacles and distinct types of disorder: noise in the dynamics of the particle, quenched noise in the positions of the obstacles as well as obstacle size polydispersity. We show that, depending on the type and strength of the disorder, the presence of obstacles can either enhance or hinder transport, and discuss implications for the control of active transport in disordered media.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danne M van Roon
- Centro de Física Teórica e Computacional, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade de Lisboa, P1-1749-016, Lisboa, Portugal.
| | - Giorgio Volpe
- Department of Chemistry, University College London, 20 Gordon Street, London, WC1H 0AJ, UK
| | - Margarida M Telo da Gama
- Centro de Física Teórica e Computacional, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade de Lisboa, P1-1749-016, Lisboa, Portugal.
| | - Nuno A M Araújo
- Centro de Física Teórica e Computacional, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade de Lisboa, P1-1749-016, Lisboa, Portugal.
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22
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Voß J, Wittkowski R. Acoustic Propulsion of Nano- and Microcones: Dependence on the Viscosity of the Surrounding Fluid. LANGMUIR : THE ACS JOURNAL OF SURFACES AND COLLOIDS 2022; 38:10736-10748. [PMID: 35998334 DOI: 10.1021/acs.langmuir.2c00603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
This article investigates how the acoustic propulsion of cone-shaped colloidal particles that are exposed to a traveling ultrasound wave depends on the viscosity of the fluid surrounding the particles. Using acoustofluidic computer simulations, we found that the propulsion of such nano- and microcones decreases strongly and even changes sign for increasing shear viscosity. In contrast, we found only a weak dependence of the propulsion on the bulk viscosity. The obtained results are in line with the findings of previous theoretical and experimental studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johannes Voß
- Institute of Theoretical Physics, Center for Soft Nanoscience, Westfälische Wilhelms-Universität Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - Raphael Wittkowski
- Institute of Theoretical Physics, Center for Soft Nanoscience, Westfälische Wilhelms-Universität Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany
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23
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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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24
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Macrophage-compatible magnetic achiral nanorobots fabricated by electron beam lithography. Sci Rep 2022; 12:13080. [PMID: 35906371 PMCID: PMC9338296 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-17053-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
With the development and progress of nanotechnology, the prospect of using nanorobots to achieve targeted drug delivery is becoming possible. Although nanorobots can potentially improve nano-drug delivery systems, there remains a significant challenge to fabricating magnetically controllable nanorobots with a size suitable for drug delivery in complex in vivo environments. Most of the current research focused on the preparation and functionalization of microscale and milliscale robots due to the relative difficulties in fabricating nanoscale robots. To address this problem and move towards in vivo applications, this study uses electron beam lithography to fabricate achiral planar L-shaped nanorobots that are biocompatible with immune cells. Their minimal planar geometry enabled nanolithography to fabricate nanorobots with a minimum feature size down to 400 nm. Using an integrated imaging and control system, the locomotive behavior of the L-shaped nanorobots in a fluidic environment was studied by examining their velocity profiles and trajectories. Furthermore, the nanorobots exhibit excellent cell compatibility with various types of cells, including macrophage cells. Finally, the long-term cell culture medium immersion test demonstrated that the L-shaped nanorobots have robust stability. This work will demonstrate the potential to use these nanorobots to operate in vivo without triggering immune cell responses.
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25
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Akolpoglu MB, Alapan Y, Dogan NO, Baltaci SF, Yasa O, Aybar Tural G, Sitti M. Magnetically steerable bacterial microrobots moving in 3D biological matrices for stimuli-responsive cargo delivery. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2022; 8:eabo6163. [PMID: 35857516 PMCID: PMC9286503 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.abo6163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
Bacterial biohybrids, composed of self-propelling bacteria carrying micro/nanoscale materials, can deliver their payload to specific regions under magnetic control, enabling additional frontiers in minimally invasive medicine. However, current bacterial biohybrid designs lack high-throughput and facile construction with favorable cargoes, thus underperforming in terms of propulsion, payload efficiency, tissue penetration, and spatiotemporal operation. Here, we report magnetically controlled bacterial biohybrids for targeted localization and multistimuli-responsive drug release in three-dimensional (3D) biological matrices. Magnetic nanoparticles and nanoliposomes loaded with photothermal agents and chemotherapeutic molecules were integrated onto Escherichia coli with ~90% efficiency. Bacterial biohybrids, outperforming previously reported E. coli-based microrobots, retained their original motility and were able to navigate through biological matrices and colonize tumor spheroids under magnetic fields for on-demand release of the drug molecules by near-infrared stimulus. Our work thus provides a multifunctional microrobotic platform for guided locomotion in 3D biological networks and stimuli-responsive delivery of therapeutics for diverse medical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mukrime Birgul Akolpoglu
- Physical Intelligence Department, Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems, 70569 Stuttgart, Germany
- Institute for Biomedical Engineering, ETH-Zürich, Zürich 8092, Switzerland
| | - Yunus Alapan
- Physical Intelligence Department, Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems, 70569 Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Nihal Olcay Dogan
- Physical Intelligence Department, Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems, 70569 Stuttgart, Germany
- Institute for Biomedical Engineering, ETH-Zürich, Zürich 8092, Switzerland
| | - Saadet Fatma Baltaci
- Physical Intelligence Department, Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems, 70569 Stuttgart, Germany
- Stuttgart Center for Simulation Science (SC SimTech), University of Stuttgart, 70569 Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Oncay Yasa
- Physical Intelligence Department, Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems, 70569 Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Gulsen Aybar Tural
- Physical Intelligence Department, Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems, 70569 Stuttgart, Germany
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ege University, 35040 Izmir, Turkey
| | - Metin Sitti
- Physical Intelligence Department, Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems, 70569 Stuttgart, Germany
- Institute for Biomedical Engineering, ETH-Zürich, Zürich 8092, Switzerland
- School of Medicine and College of Engineering, Koç University, 34450 Istanbul, Turkey
- Corresponding author.
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26
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Denecke K, Baudoin CR. A Review of Artificial Intelligence and Robotics in Transformed Health Ecosystems. Front Med (Lausanne) 2022; 9:795957. [PMID: 35872767 PMCID: PMC9299071 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2022.795957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2021] [Accepted: 06/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Health care is shifting toward become proactive according to the concept of P5 medicine-a predictive, personalized, preventive, participatory and precision discipline. This patient-centered care heavily leverages the latest technologies of artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics that support diagnosis, decision making and treatment. In this paper, we present the role of AI and robotic systems in this evolution, including example use cases. We categorize systems along multiple dimensions such as the type of system, the degree of autonomy, the care setting where the systems are applied, and the application area. These technologies have already achieved notable results in the prediction of sepsis or cardiovascular risk, the monitoring of vital parameters in intensive care units, or in the form of home care robots. Still, while much research is conducted around AI and robotics in health care, adoption in real world care settings is still limited. To remove adoption barriers, we need to address issues such as safety, security, privacy and ethical principles; detect and eliminate bias that could result in harmful or unfair clinical decisions; and build trust in and societal acceptance of AI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kerstin Denecke
- Institute for Medical Information, Bern University of Applied Sciences, Bern, Switzerland
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27
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Zimmermann CJ, Schraeder T, Reynolds B, DeBoer EM, Neeves KB, Marr DW. Delivery and actuation of aerosolized microbots. NANO SELECT 2022; 3:1185-1191. [PMID: 38737633 PMCID: PMC11086685 DOI: 10.1002/nano.202100353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
For disease of the lung, the physical key to effective inhalation-based therapy is size; too large (10's of μm) and the particles or droplets do not remain suspended in air to reach deep within the lungs, too small (subμm) and they are simply exhaled without deposition. μBots within this ideal low-μm size range however are challenging to fabricate and would lead to devices that lack the speed and power necessary for performing work throughout the pulmonary network. To uncouple size from structure and function, here we demonstrate an approach where individual building blocks are aerosolized and subsequently assembled in situ into μbots capable of translation, drug delivery, and mechanical work deep within lung mimics. With this strategy, a variety of pulmonary diseases previously difficult to treat may now be receptive to μbot-based therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Coy J. Zimmermann
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Colorado School of Mines, Golden, Colorado 80401, USA
| | - Tyler Schraeder
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Colorado School of Mines, Golden, Colorado 80401, USA
| | - Brandon Reynolds
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Colorado School of Mines, Golden, Colorado 80401, USA
| | - Emily M. DeBoer
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado Denver Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado 80045, USA
| | - Keith B. Neeves
- Departments of Bioengineering and Pediatrics, Hemophilia and Thrombosis Center, University of Colorado Denver Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado 80045, USA
| | - David W.M. Marr
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Colorado School of Mines, Golden, Colorado 80401, USA
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28
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Nitschke T, Stenhammar J, Wittkowski R. Collective guiding of acoustically propelled nano- and microparticles. NANOSCALE ADVANCES 2022; 4:2844-2856. [PMID: 36132012 PMCID: PMC9417943 DOI: 10.1039/d2na00007e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2022] [Accepted: 05/05/2022] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
One of the most important potential applications of motile nano- and microdevices is targeted drug delivery. To realize this, biocompatible particles that can be guided collectively towards a target inside a patient's body are required. Acoustically propelled nano- and microparticles constitute a promising candidate for such biocompatible, artificial motile particles. The main remaining obstacle to targeted drug delivery by motile nano- and microdevices is to also achieve a reliable and biocompatible method for guiding them collectively to their target. Here, we propose such a method. As we confirm by computer simulations, it allows for the remote guiding of large numbers of acoustically propelled particles to a prescribed target by combining a space- and time-dependent acoustic field and a time-dependent magnetic field. The method works without detailed knowledge about the particle positions and for arbitrary initial particle distributions. With these features, it paves the way for the future application of motile particles as vehicles for targeted drug delivery in nanomedicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tobias Nitschke
- Institut für Theoretische Physik, Center for Soft Nanoscience, Westfälische Wilhelms-Universität Münster 48149 Münster Germany
| | - Joakim Stenhammar
- Division of Physical Chemistry, Lund University SE-221 00 Lund Sweden
| | - Raphael Wittkowski
- Institut für Theoretische Physik, Center for Soft Nanoscience, Westfälische Wilhelms-Universität Münster 48149 Münster Germany
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29
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Darmawan BA, Gong D, Park H, Jeong S, Go G, Kim S, Nguyen KT, Zheng S, Nan M, Nguyen VD, Bang D, Kim CS, Kim H, Park JO, Choi E. Magnetically controlled reversible shape-morphing microrobots with real-time X-ray imaging for stomach cancer applications. J Mater Chem B 2022; 10:4509-4518. [PMID: 35616358 DOI: 10.1039/d2tb00760f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Stomach cancer is a global health concern as millions of cases are reported each year. In the present study, we developed a pH-responsive microrobot with good biocompatibility, magnetic-field controlled movements, and the ability to be visualized via X-ray imaging. The microrobot consisted of composite resin and a pH-responsive layer. This microrobot was found to fold itself in high pH environments and unfold itself in low pH environments. In addition, the neodymium (NdFeB) magnetic nanoparticles present inside the composite resin provided the microrobot with an ability to be controlled by a magnetic field through an electromagnetic actuation system, and the monomeric triiodobenzoate-based particles were found to act as contrast agents for real-time X-ray imaging. The doxorubicin coating on the microrobot's surface resulted in a high cancer-cell killing effect. Finally, we demonstrated the proposed microrobot under an ex vivo environment using a pig's stomach. Thus, this approach can be a potential alternative to targeted drug carriers, especially for stomach cancer applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bobby Aditya Darmawan
- Korea Institute of Medical Microrobotics, 43-26, Cheomdangwagi-ro 208 beon-gil, Buk-gu, Gwangju 61011, Korea. .,School of Mechanical Engineering, Chonnam National University, 77 Yong-bong-ro, Buk-gu, Gwangju 61186, Korea
| | - Dohoon Gong
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Chonnam National University, 77 Yong-bong-ro, Buk-gu, Gwangju 61186, Korea
| | - Hyeongyu Park
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Chonnam National University, 77 Yong-bong-ro, Buk-gu, Gwangju 61186, Korea
| | - Songah Jeong
- School of Polymer Science and Engineering, Chonnam National University, 77 Yongbong-ro, Buk-gu, Gwangju 61186, Korea.
| | - Gwangjun Go
- Korea Institute of Medical Microrobotics, 43-26, Cheomdangwagi-ro 208 beon-gil, Buk-gu, Gwangju 61011, Korea. .,School of Mechanical Engineering, Chonnam National University, 77 Yong-bong-ro, Buk-gu, Gwangju 61186, Korea
| | - Seokjae Kim
- Korea Institute of Medical Microrobotics, 43-26, Cheomdangwagi-ro 208 beon-gil, Buk-gu, Gwangju 61011, Korea. .,School of Mechanical Engineering, Chonnam National University, 77 Yong-bong-ro, Buk-gu, Gwangju 61186, Korea
| | - Kim Tien Nguyen
- Korea Institute of Medical Microrobotics, 43-26, Cheomdangwagi-ro 208 beon-gil, Buk-gu, Gwangju 61011, Korea.
| | - Shirong Zheng
- Korea Institute of Medical Microrobotics, 43-26, Cheomdangwagi-ro 208 beon-gil, Buk-gu, Gwangju 61011, Korea. .,School of Mechanical Engineering, Chonnam National University, 77 Yong-bong-ro, Buk-gu, Gwangju 61186, Korea
| | - Minghui Nan
- Korea Institute of Medical Microrobotics, 43-26, Cheomdangwagi-ro 208 beon-gil, Buk-gu, Gwangju 61011, Korea. .,School of Mechanical Engineering, Chonnam National University, 77 Yong-bong-ro, Buk-gu, Gwangju 61186, Korea
| | - Van Du Nguyen
- Korea Institute of Medical Microrobotics, 43-26, Cheomdangwagi-ro 208 beon-gil, Buk-gu, Gwangju 61011, Korea. .,School of Mechanical Engineering, Chonnam National University, 77 Yong-bong-ro, Buk-gu, Gwangju 61186, Korea
| | - Doyeon Bang
- Korea Institute of Medical Microrobotics, 43-26, Cheomdangwagi-ro 208 beon-gil, Buk-gu, Gwangju 61011, Korea. .,College of AI Convergence, Chonnam National University, 77 Yong-bong-ro, Buk-gu, Gwangju 61186, Korea
| | - Chang-Sei Kim
- Korea Institute of Medical Microrobotics, 43-26, Cheomdangwagi-ro 208 beon-gil, Buk-gu, Gwangju 61011, Korea. .,School of Mechanical Engineering, Chonnam National University, 77 Yong-bong-ro, Buk-gu, Gwangju 61186, Korea
| | - Hyungwoo Kim
- School of Polymer Science and Engineering, Chonnam National University, 77 Yongbong-ro, Buk-gu, Gwangju 61186, Korea.
| | - Jong-Oh Park
- Korea Institute of Medical Microrobotics, 43-26, Cheomdangwagi-ro 208 beon-gil, Buk-gu, Gwangju 61011, Korea. .,School of Mechanical Engineering, Chonnam National University, 77 Yong-bong-ro, Buk-gu, Gwangju 61186, Korea
| | - Eunpyo Choi
- Korea Institute of Medical Microrobotics, 43-26, Cheomdangwagi-ro 208 beon-gil, Buk-gu, Gwangju 61011, Korea. .,School of Mechanical Engineering, Chonnam National University, 77 Yong-bong-ro, Buk-gu, Gwangju 61186, Korea
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30
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Microrobot collectives with reconfigurable morphologies, behaviors, and functions. Nat Commun 2022; 13:2239. [PMID: 35473915 PMCID: PMC9043221 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-29882-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2021] [Accepted: 03/31/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Mobile microrobots, which can navigate, sense, and interact with their environment, could potentially revolutionize biomedicine and environmental remediation. Many self-organizing microrobotic collectives have been developed to overcome inherent limits in actuation, sensing, and manipulation of individual microrobots; however, reconfigurable collectives with robust transitions between behaviors are rare. Such systems that perform multiple functions are advantageous to operate in complex environments. Here, we present a versatile microrobotic collective system capable of on-demand reconfiguration to adapt to and utilize their environments to perform various functions at the air-water interface. Our system exhibits diverse modes ranging from isotropic to anisotrpic behaviors and transitions between a globally driven and a novel self-propelling behavior. We show the transition between different modes in experiments and simulations, and demonstrate various functions, using the reconfigurability of our system to navigate, explore, and interact with the environment. Such versatile microrobot collectives with globally driven and self-propelled behaviors have great potential in future medical and environmental applications.
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31
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Babeer A, Oh MJ, Ren Z, Liu Y, Marques F, Poly A, Karabucak B, Steager E, Koo H. Microrobotics for Precision Biofilm Diagnostics and Treatment. J Dent Res 2022; 101:1009-1014. [PMID: 35450484 PMCID: PMC9305841 DOI: 10.1177/00220345221087149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Advances in small-scale robotics and nanotechnology are providing previously unimagined opportunities for new diagnostic and therapeutic approaches with high precision, control, and efficiency. We designed microrobots for tetherless biofilm treatment and retrieval using iron oxide nanoparticles (NPs) with dual catalytic-magnetic functionality as building blocks. We show 2 distinct microrobotic platforms. The first system is formed from NPs that assemble into aggregated microswarms under magnetic fields that can be controlled to disrupt and retrieve biofilm samples for microbial analysis. The second platform is composed of 3-dimensional (3D) micromolded opacifier-infused soft helicoids with embedded catalytic-magnetic NPs that can be visualized via existing radiographic imaging techniques and controlled magnetically inside the root canal, uninterrupted by the soft and hard tissues surrounding the teeth in an ex vivo model. These microrobots placed inside the root canal can remove biofilms and be efficiently guided with microscale precision. The proof-of-concept paradigm described here can be adapted to target difficult-to-reach anatomical spaces in other natural and implanted surfaces in an automated and tether-free manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Babeer
- Biofilm Research Laboratories, Center for Innovation & Precision Dentistry, School of Dental Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.,Department of Endodontics, School of Dental Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.,Department of Oral Biology, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, KSA
| | - M J Oh
- Biofilm Research Laboratories, Center for Innovation & Precision Dentistry, School of Dental Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.,Department of Orthodontics, School of Dental Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.,Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Z Ren
- Biofilm Research Laboratories, Center for Innovation & Precision Dentistry, School of Dental Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.,Department of Orthodontics, School of Dental Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Y Liu
- Biofilm Research Laboratories, Center for Innovation & Precision Dentistry, School of Dental Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.,Department of Preventive & Restorative Sciences, School of Dental Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - F Marques
- Department of Endodontics, School of Dental Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - A Poly
- Proclin Department, School of Dentistry, State University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - B Karabucak
- Department of Endodontics, School of Dental Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - E Steager
- Biofilm Research Laboratories, Center for Innovation & Precision Dentistry, School of Dental Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.,GRASP Laboratory, School of Engineering and Applied Science, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - H Koo
- Biofilm Research Laboratories, Center for Innovation & Precision Dentistry, School of Dental Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.,Department of Orthodontics, School of Dental Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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32
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Voß J, Wittkowski R. Orientation-Dependent Propulsion of Triangular Nano- and Microparticles by a Traveling Ultrasound Wave. ACS NANO 2022; 16:3604-3612. [PMID: 35263102 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.1c02302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Previous studies on ultrasound-propelled nano- and microparticles have considered only systems in which the particle orientation is perpendicular to the direction of propagation of the ultrasound. However, in future applications of these particles, they will typically be able to attain other orientations. Therefore, using direct acoustofluidic simulations, here we study how the propulsion of triangular nano- and microparticles, which are known to have a particularly efficient acoustic propulsion and are therefore promising candidates for future applications, depends on their orientation relative to the propagation direction of a traveling ultrasound wave. Our results reveal that the propulsion of the particles depends strongly on their orientation relative to the direction of wave propagation and that the particles tend to orient perpendicularly to the wave direction. We also address the orientation-averaged translational and angular velocities of the particles, which correspond to the particles' effective propulsion for an isotropic exposure to ultrasound. Our results allow assessment of how free ultrasound-propelled colloidal particles move in three spatial dimensions and thus constitute an important step toward the realization of envisaged future applications of such particles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johannes Voß
- Institut für Theoretische Physik, Center for Soft Nanoscience, Westfälische Wilhelms-Universität Münster, D-48149 Münster, Germany
| | - Raphael Wittkowski
- Institut für Theoretische Physik, Center for Soft Nanoscience, Westfälische Wilhelms-Universität Münster, D-48149 Münster, Germany
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33
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Li S, Liu D, Hu Y, Su Z, Zhang X, Guo R, Li D, Lu Y. Soft Magnetic Microrobot Doped with Porous Silica for Stability-Enhanced Multimodal Locomotion in a Nonideal Environment. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2022; 14:10856-10874. [PMID: 35188736 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.1c25102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
As an emerging field of robotics, magnetic-field-controlled soft microrobot has broad application prospects for its flexibility, locomotion diversity, and remote controllability. Magnetic soft microrobots can perform multimodal locomotion under the control of a magnetic field, which may have potential applications in precision medicine. However, previous research studies mainly focus on new locomotion in a relatively ideal environment, lacking exploration on the ability of magnetic microrobot locomotion to resist external disturbances and proceed in a nonideal environment. Here, a porous silica-doped soft magnetic microrobot is constructed for enhanced stability of multimodal locomotion in the nonideal biological environment. Porous silica spheres are doped into a NdFeB-silicone elastomer base, improving adhesion properties and refining the comprehensive mechanical properties of the microrobot. Multimodal locomotions are achieved, and the influence of porous silica doping on the stability of each locomotion in a nonideal environment is explored in depth. Motions in nonideal circumstances such as climbing, loading, current rushing, wind blowing, and obstacle hindering are conducted successfully with porous silica doping. Such a stability-enhanced multimodal locomotion system can be used in biocatalysis and thrombus removal, and its prospect for precision medicine is highlighted by in vivo demonstration of multimodal locomotion with nonideal disturbance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shangsong Li
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Biocatalysis, Ministry of Education, Department of Chemical Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Dong Liu
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Biocatalysis, Ministry of Education, Department of Chemical Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Yuping Hu
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Biocatalysis, Ministry of Education, Department of Chemical Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Zhijie Su
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Biocatalysis, Ministry of Education, Department of Chemical Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Xinai Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Biocatalysis, Ministry of Education, Department of Chemical Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
- Beijing No.4 High School International Campus, Beijing 100034, China
| | - Ruirui Guo
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Biocatalysis, Ministry of Education, Department of Chemical Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
- College of Bioengineering, Tianjin University of Science and Technology, Tianjin 300457, China
| | - Dan Li
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Biocatalysis, Ministry of Education, Department of Chemical Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Yuan Lu
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Biocatalysis, Ministry of Education, Department of Chemical Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
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34
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Zhang Z, Wang L, Chan TKF, Chen Z, Ip M, Chan PKS, Sung JJY, Zhang L. Micro-/Nanorobots in Antimicrobial Applications: Recent Progress, Challenges, and Opportunities. Adv Healthc Mater 2022; 11:e2101991. [PMID: 34907671 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202101991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2021] [Revised: 11/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The evolution of drug-resistant pathogenic bacteria remains one of the most urgent threats to public health worldwide. Even worse, the bacterial cells commonly form biofilms through aggregation and adhesion, preventing antibiotic penetration and resisting environmental stress. Moreover, biofilms tend to grow in some hard-to-reach regions, bringing difficulty for antibiotic delivery at the infected site. The drug-resistant pathogenic bacteria and intractable biofilm give rise to chronic and recurrent infections, exacerbating the challenge in combating bacterial infections. Micro/nanorobots (MNRs) are capable of active cargo delivery, targeted treatment with high precision, and motion-assisted mechanical force, which enable transport and enhance penetration of antibacterial agents into the targeted site, thus showing great promise in emerging as an attractive alternative to conventional antibacterial therapies. This review summarizes the recent advances in micro-/nanorobots for antibacterial applications, with emphasis on those novel strategies for drug-resistance bacterium and stubborn biofilm infections. Insights on the future development of MNRs with good functionality and biosafety offer promising approaches to address infections in the clinic setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zifeng Zhang
- Department of Mechanical and Automation Engineering The Chinese University of Hong Kong Hong Kong SAR 999077 China
| | - Lu Wang
- Department of Mechanical and Automation Engineering The Chinese University of Hong Kong Hong Kong SAR 999077 China
| | - Tony K. F. Chan
- Chow Yuk Ho Technology Center for Innovative Medicine The Chinese University of Hong Kong Hong Kong SAR 999077 China
| | - Zigui Chen
- Department of Microbiology The Chinese University of Hong Kong Hong Kong SAR 999077 China
| | - Margaret Ip
- Department of Microbiology The Chinese University of Hong Kong Hong Kong SAR 999077 China
| | - Paul K. S. Chan
- Department of Microbiology The Chinese University of Hong Kong Hong Kong SAR 999077 China
- Stanley Ho Centre for Emerging Infectious Diseases Faculty of Medicine The Chinese University of Hong Kong Hong Kong SAR 999077 China
| | - Joseph J. Y. Sung
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine Nanyang Technological University Singapore 636921 Singapore
| | - Li Zhang
- Department of Mechanical and Automation Engineering The Chinese University of Hong Kong Hong Kong SAR 999077 China
- Chow Yuk Ho Technology Center for Innovative Medicine The Chinese University of Hong Kong Hong Kong SAR 999077 China
- CUHK T Stone Robotics Institute The Chinese University of Hong Kong Hong Kong SAR 999077 China
- Department of Surgery The Chinese University of Hong Kong Hong Kong SAR 999077 China
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35
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Li J, Dekanovsky L, Khezri B, Wu B, Zhou H, Sofer Z. Biohybrid Micro- and Nanorobots for Intelligent Drug Delivery. CYBORG AND BIONIC SYSTEMS 2022; 2022:9824057. [PMID: 36285309 PMCID: PMC9494704 DOI: 10.34133/2022/9824057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2021] [Accepted: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 08/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Biohybrid micro- and nanorobots are integrated tiny machines from biological components and artificial components. They can possess the advantages of onboard actuation, sensing, control, and implementation of multiple medical tasks such as targeted drug delivery, single-cell manipulation, and cell microsurgery. This review paper is to give an overview of biohybrid micro- and nanorobots for smart drug delivery applications. First, a wide range of biohybrid micro- and nanorobots comprising different biological components are reviewed in detail. Subsequently, the applications of biohybrid micro- and nanorobots for active drug delivery are introduced to demonstrate how such biohybrid micro- and nanorobots are being exploited in the field of medicine and healthcare. Lastly, key challenges to be overcome are discussed to pave the way for the clinical translation and application of the biohybrid micro- and nanorobots.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinhua Li
- School of Medical Technology, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China
- Department of Inorganic Chemistry, University of Chemistry and Technology Prague, Technicka 5, 166 28 Prague 6, Czech Republic
| | - Lukas Dekanovsky
- Department of Inorganic Chemistry, University of Chemistry and Technology Prague, Technicka 5, 166 28 Prague 6, Czech Republic
| | - Bahareh Khezri
- Department of Inorganic Chemistry, University of Chemistry and Technology Prague, Technicka 5, 166 28 Prague 6, Czech Republic
| | - Bing Wu
- Department of Inorganic Chemistry, University of Chemistry and Technology Prague, Technicka 5, 166 28 Prague 6, Czech Republic
| | - Huaijuan Zhou
- Department of Inorganic Chemistry, University of Chemistry and Technology Prague, Technicka 5, 166 28 Prague 6, Czech Republic
| | - Zdenek Sofer
- Department of Inorganic Chemistry, University of Chemistry and Technology Prague, Technicka 5, 166 28 Prague 6, Czech Republic
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36
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Ahmad B, Gauthier M, Laurent GJ, Bolopion A. Mobile Microrobots for In Vitro Biomedical Applications: A Survey. IEEE T ROBOT 2022. [DOI: 10.1109/tro.2021.3085245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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37
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Liu D, Wang T, Lu Y. Untethered Microrobots for Active Drug Delivery: From Rational Design to Clinical Settings. Adv Healthc Mater 2022; 11:e2102253. [PMID: 34767306 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202102253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Recent advances of untethered microrobots, which navigate the complex regions in vivo for therapeutics, have presented promising multiple applications on future healthcare. Microrobots used for active drug delivery system (DDS) have been demonstrated for advanced targeting distribution, improved delivery efficiency, and reduced systemic side effects. In this review, the therapeutic benefits of active DDS are presented compared to the traditional passive DDS, which illustrate the historical reasons for choosing active DDS. An integrated 5D radar chart analysis model containing the core capabilities of the active DDS is innovatively proposed. It would be a practical tool for measurement and mapping of the field of active delivery, followed by the evolutions and bottlenecks of each technical module. The comprehensive consideration of microrobots before clinical application is also discussed from the aspects of robot ethics, dosage, quality control and stability control in actual production. Gastrointestinal and blood administration, as two major clinical scenes of drug delivery, are discussed in detail as examples of the potential bedside applications of active DDS. Finally, combined with the reported analysis model, the current status and future outlook from the translation prospect to the clinical scenes of microrobots are provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dong Liu
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Biocatalysis Ministry of Education Department of Chemical Engineering Tsinghua University Beijing 100084 China
| | - Ting Wang
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Biocatalysis Ministry of Education Department of Chemical Engineering Tsinghua University Beijing 100084 China
| | - Yuan Lu
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Biocatalysis Ministry of Education Department of Chemical Engineering Tsinghua University Beijing 100084 China
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38
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Dias JMS, Estima D, Punte H, Klingner A, Marques L, Magdanz V, Khalil ISM. Modeling and Characterization of the Passive Bending Stiffness of Nanoparticle‐Coated Sperm Cells using Magnetic Excitation. ADVANCED THEORY AND SIMULATIONS 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/adts.202100438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- João M. S. Dias
- Department of Biomechanical Engineering University of Twente Enschede 7522 NB The Netherlands
- Institute of Systems and Robotics University of Coimbra Coimbra 3030‐194 Portugal
| | - Daniel Estima
- Department of Biomechanical Engineering University of Twente Enschede 7522 NB The Netherlands
| | - Harmen Punte
- Department of Biomechanical Engineering University of Twente Enschede 7522 NB The Netherlands
| | - Anke Klingner
- Department of Physics The German University in Cairo Cairo 11835 Egypt
| | - Lino Marques
- Institute of Systems and Robotics University of Coimbra Coimbra 3030‐194 Portugal
| | - Veronika Magdanz
- Institute of Bioengineering of Catalonia Smart Nanobiodevices group Barcelona 08028 Spain
| | - Islam S. M. Khalil
- Department of Biomechanical Engineering University of Twente Enschede 7522 NB The Netherlands
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39
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Yang Q, Enríquez Á, Devathasan D, Thompson CA, Nayee D, Harris R, Satoski D, Obeng-Gyasi B, Lee A, Bentley RT, Lee H. Application of magnetically actuated self-clearing catheter for rapid in situ blood clot clearance in hemorrhagic stroke treatment. Nat Commun 2022; 13:520. [PMID: 35082280 PMCID: PMC8791973 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-28101-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2021] [Accepted: 01/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Maintaining the patency of indwelling drainage devices is critical in preventing further complications following an intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) and other chronic disease management. Surgeons often use drainage devices to remove blood and cerebrospinal fluid but these catheters frequently become occluded with hematoma. Using an implantable magnetic microactuator, we created a self-clearing catheter that can generate large enough forces to break down obstructive blood clots by applying time-varying magnetic fields. In a blood-circulating model, our self-clearing catheters demonstrated a > 7x longer functionality than traditional catheters (211 vs. 27 min) and maintained a low pressure for longer periods (239 vs. 79 min). Using a porcine IVH model, the self-clearing catheters showed a greater survival rate than control catheters (86% vs. 0%) over the course of 6 weeks. The treated animals also had significantly smaller ventricle sizes 1 week after implantation compared to the control animals with traditional catheters. Our results suggest that these magnetic microactuator-embedded smart catheters can expedite the removal of blood from the ventricles and potentially improve the outcomes of critical patients suffering from often deadly IVH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Yang
- Weldon School of Biomedical Engineering, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, 47907, USA
- Center for Implantable Devices, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, 47907, USA
- Birck Nanotechnology Center, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, 47907, USA
- School of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, 47907, USA
| | - Ángel Enríquez
- Weldon School of Biomedical Engineering, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, 47907, USA
- Center for Implantable Devices, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, 47907, USA
- Birck Nanotechnology Center, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, 47907, USA
| | - Dillon Devathasan
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, 47907, USA
| | - Craig A Thompson
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, 47907, USA
| | - Dillan Nayee
- Weldon School of Biomedical Engineering, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, 47907, USA
- Center for Implantable Devices, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, 47907, USA
| | - Ryan Harris
- Weldon School of Biomedical Engineering, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, 47907, USA
- Center for Implantable Devices, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, 47907, USA
| | - Douglas Satoski
- Weldon School of Biomedical Engineering, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, 47907, USA
- Center for Implantable Devices, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, 47907, USA
| | - Barnabas Obeng-Gyasi
- Weldon School of Biomedical Engineering, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, 47907, USA
- Center for Implantable Devices, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, 47907, USA
| | - Albert Lee
- Goodman Campbell Brain and Spine, Indianapolis, IN, 46202, USA
| | - R Timothy Bentley
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, 47907, USA
| | - Hyowon Lee
- Weldon School of Biomedical Engineering, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, 47907, USA.
- Center for Implantable Devices, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, 47907, USA.
- Birck Nanotechnology Center, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, 47907, USA.
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40
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Sridhar V, Podjaski F, Alapan Y, Kröger J, Grunenberg L, Kishore V, Lotsch BV, Sitti M. Light-driven carbon nitride microswimmers with propulsion in biological and ionic media and responsive on-demand drug delivery. Sci Robot 2022; 7:eabm1421. [PMID: 35044799 DOI: 10.1126/scirobotics.abm1421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
We propose two-dimensional poly(heptazine imide) (PHI) carbon nitride microparticles as light-driven microswimmers in various ionic and biological media. Their high-speed (15 to 23 micrometer per second; 9.5 ± 5.4 body lengths per second) swimming in multicomponent ionic solutions with concentrations up to 5 M and without dedicated fuels is demonstrated, overcoming one of the bottlenecks of previous light-driven microswimmers. Such high ion tolerance is attributed to a favorable interplay between the particle's textural and structural nanoporosity and optoionic properties, facilitating ionic interactions in solutions with high salinity. Biocompatibility of these microswimmers is validated by cell viability tests with three different cell lines and primary cells. The nanopores of the swimmers are loaded with a model cancer drug, doxorubicin (DOX), resulting in a high (185%) loading efficiency without passive release. Controlled drug release is reported under different pH conditions and can be triggered on-demand by illumination. Light-triggered, boosted release of DOX and its active degradation products are demonstrated under oxygen-poor conditions using the intrinsic, environmentally sensitive and light-induced charge storage properties of PHI, which could enable future theranostic applications in oxygen-deprived tumor regions. These organic PHI microswimmers simultaneously address the current light-driven microswimmer challenges of high ion tolerance, fuel-free high-speed propulsion in biological media, biocompatibility, and controlled on-demand cargo release toward their biomedical, environmental, and other potential applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Varun Sridhar
- Physical Intelligence Department, Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems, 70569 Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Filip Podjaski
- Nanochemistry Department, Max Planck Institute for Solid State Research, 70569 Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Yunus Alapan
- Physical Intelligence Department, Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems, 70569 Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Julia Kröger
- Nanochemistry Department, Max Planck Institute for Solid State Research, 70569 Stuttgart, Germany.,Department of Chemistry, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, 81377 Munich, Germany
| | - Lars Grunenberg
- Nanochemistry Department, Max Planck Institute for Solid State Research, 70569 Stuttgart, Germany.,Department of Chemistry, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, 81377 Munich, Germany
| | - Vimal Kishore
- Physical Intelligence Department, Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems, 70569 Stuttgart, Germany.,Department of Physics, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi 221005, India
| | - Bettina V Lotsch
- Nanochemistry Department, Max Planck Institute for Solid State Research, 70569 Stuttgart, Germany.,Department of Chemistry, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, 81377 Munich, Germany.,Cluster of Excellence e-conversion, Lichtenbergstrasse 4, 85748 Garching, Germany
| | - Metin Sitti
- Physical Intelligence Department, Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems, 70569 Stuttgart, Germany.,Institute for Biomedical Engineering, ETH Zurich, 8092 Zurich, Switzerland.,School of Medicine and College of Engineering, Koç University, 34450 Istanbul, Turkey
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41
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Wang Z, Xu Z, Zhu B, Zhang Y, Lin J, Wu Y, Wu D. Design, fabrication and application of magnetically actuated micro/nanorobots: a review. NANOTECHNOLOGY 2022; 33:152001. [PMID: 34915458 DOI: 10.1088/1361-6528/ac43e6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2021] [Accepted: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Magnetically actuated micro/nanorobots are typical micro- and nanoscale artificial devices with favorable attributes of quick response, remote and contactless control, harmless human-machine interaction and high economic efficiency. Under external magnetic actuation strategies, they are capable of achieving elaborate manipulation and navigation in extreme biomedical environments. This review focuses on state-of-the-art progresses in design strategies, fabrication techniques and applications of magnetically actuated micro/nanorobots. Firstly, recent advances of various robot designs, including helical robots, surface walkers, ciliary robots, scaffold robots and biohybrid robots, are discussed separately. Secondly, the main progresses of common fabrication techniques are respectively introduced, and application achievements on these robots in targeted drug delivery, minimally invasive surgery and cell manipulation are also presented. Finally, a short summary is made, and the current challenges and future work for magnetically actuated micro/nanorobots are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhongbao Wang
- Department of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361005, People's Republic of China
- Shenzhen Research Institute of Xiamen University, Shenzhen, 518057, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhenjin Xu
- Department of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361005, People's Republic of China
- Shenzhen Research Institute of Xiamen University, Shenzhen, 518057, People's Republic of China
| | - Bin Zhu
- Department of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361005, People's Republic of China
- Shenzhen Research Institute of Xiamen University, Shenzhen, 518057, People's Republic of China
| | - Yang Zhang
- Department of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361005, People's Republic of China
- Shenzhen Research Institute of Xiamen University, Shenzhen, 518057, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiawei Lin
- Department of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361005, People's Republic of China
- Shenzhen Research Institute of Xiamen University, Shenzhen, 518057, People's Republic of China
| | - Yigen Wu
- Department of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361005, People's Republic of China
- Shenzhen Research Institute of Xiamen University, Shenzhen, 518057, People's Republic of China
| | - Dezhi Wu
- Department of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361005, People's Republic of China
- Shenzhen Research Institute of Xiamen University, Shenzhen, 518057, People's Republic of China
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42
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Voß J, Wittkowski R. Acoustically propelled nano- and microcones: fast forward and backward motion. NANOSCALE ADVANCES 2021; 4:281-293. [PMID: 36132955 PMCID: PMC9417971 DOI: 10.1039/d1na00655j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2021] [Accepted: 10/21/2021] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
We focus on cone-shaped nano- and microparticles, which have recently been found to show particularly strong propulsion when they are exposed to a traveling ultrasound wave, and study based on direct acoustofluidic computer simulations how their propulsion depends on the cones' aspect ratio. The simulations reveal that the propulsion velocity and even its sign are very sensitive to the aspect ratio, where short particles move forward whereas elongated particles move backward. Furthermore, we identify a cone shape that allows for a particularly large propulsion speed. Our results contribute to the understanding of the propulsion of ultrasound-propelled colloidal particles, suggest a method for separation and sorting of nano- and microcones concerning their aspect ratio, and provide useful guidance for future experiments and applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johannes Voß
- Institut für Theoretische Physik, Center for Soft Nanoscience, Westfälische Wilhelms-Universität Münster D-48149 Münster Germany
| | - Raphael Wittkowski
- Institut für Theoretische Physik, Center for Soft Nanoscience, Westfälische Wilhelms-Universität Münster D-48149 Münster Germany
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43
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Kurzthaler C, Mandal S, Bhattacharjee T, Löwen H, Datta SS, Stone HA. A geometric criterion for the optimal spreading of active polymers in porous media. Nat Commun 2021; 12:7088. [PMID: 34873164 PMCID: PMC8648790 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-26942-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2021] [Accepted: 10/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Efficient navigation through disordered, porous environments poses a major challenge for swimming microorganisms and future synthetic cargo-carriers. We perform Brownian dynamics simulations of active stiff polymers undergoing run-reverse dynamics, and so mimic bacterial swimming, in porous media. In accord with experiments of Escherichia coli, the polymer dynamics are characterized by trapping phases interrupted by directed hopping motion through the pores. Our findings show that the spreading of active agents in porous media can be optimized by tuning their run lengths, which we rationalize using a coarse-grained model. More significantly, we discover a geometric criterion for the optimal spreading, which emerges when their run lengths are comparable to the longest straight path available in the porous medium. Our criterion unifies results for porous media with disparate pore sizes and shapes and for run-and-tumble polymers. It thus provides a fundamental principle for optimal transport of active agents in densely-packed biological and environmental settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina Kurzthaler
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, 08544, USA.
| | - Suvendu Mandal
- Institut für Theoretische Physik II: Weiche Materie, Heinrich-Heine-Universität Düsseldorf, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany.
- Physikalisches Institut, Albert-Ludwigs-Universität Freiburg, 79104, Freiburg, Germany.
- Institut für Physik der kondensierten Materie, Technische Universität Darmstadt, 64289, Darmstadt, Germany.
| | - Tapomoy Bhattacharjee
- The Andlinger Center for Energy and the Environment, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, 08544, USA
- National Centre for Biological Sciences, Tata Institute of Fundamental Research, Bangalore, 560065, India
| | - Hartmut Löwen
- Institut für Theoretische Physik II: Weiche Materie, Heinrich-Heine-Universität Düsseldorf, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Sujit S Datta
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, 08544, USA
| | - Howard A Stone
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, 08544, USA.
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44
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Celi N, Gong D, Cai J. Artificial flexible sperm-like nanorobot based on self-assembly and its bidirectional propulsion in precessing magnetic fields. Sci Rep 2021; 11:21728. [PMID: 34741063 PMCID: PMC8571375 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-00902-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2021] [Accepted: 10/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Sperm cells can move at a high speed in biofluids based on the flexible flagella, which inspire novel flagellar micro-/nanorobots to be designed. Despite progress in fabricating sperm-type robots at micro scale, mass fabrication of vivid sperm-like nanorobots with flagellar flexibility is still challenging. In this work, a facile and efficient strategy is proposed to produce flexible sperm-like nanorobots with self-assembled head-to-tail structure, and its bidirectional propulsion property was studied in detail. The nanorobots were composed of a superparamagnetic head and a flexible Au/PPy flagellum, which were covalently linked via biotin-streptavidin bonding with a high yield. Under precessing magnetic fields, the head drove the flexible tail to rotate and generated undulatory bending waves propagating along the body. Bidirectional locomotion was investigated, and moving velocity as well as direction varied with the actuating conditions (field strength, frequency, direction) and the nanorobot's structure (tail length). Effective flagellar propulsion was observed near the substrate and high velocities were attained to move back and forth without U-turn. Typical modelling based on elastohydrodynamics and undulatory wave propagation were utilized for propulsion analysis. This research presents novel artificial flexible sperm-like nanorobots with delicate self-assembled head-to-tail structures and remarkable bidirectional locomotion performances, indicating significant potentials for nanorobotic design and future biomedical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nuoer Celi
- School of Mechanical Engineering and Automation, Beihang University, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - De Gong
- School of Mechanical Engineering and Automation, Beihang University, Beijing, 100191, China. .,Shen Yuan Honors College, Beihang University, Beijing, 100191, China.
| | - Jun Cai
- School of Mechanical Engineering and Automation, Beihang University, Beijing, 100191, China
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45
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Bernasconi R, Pizzetti F, Rossetti A, Butler B, Levi M, Pané S, Rossi F, Magagnin L. Layer-by-Layer Fabrication of Hydrogel Microsystems for Controlled Drug Delivery From Untethered Microrobots. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2021; 9:692648. [PMID: 34722474 PMCID: PMC8548779 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2021.692648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2021] [Accepted: 08/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Targeted drug delivery from untethered microrobots is a topic of major interest in current biomedical research. The possibility to load smart materials able to administer active principles on remotely in vivo guidable microdevices constitutes one of the most attractive opportunities to overcome the drawbacks of classical untargeted delivery methodologies. Hydrogels, in particular, are ideal candidates as drug-carrying materials due to their biocompatibility, low cost, and ease of manufacturing. On the other hand, these polymers suffer from poor control over release rate and overall released amount. Starting from these premises, the present article demonstrates the possibility to tune the release of hydrogels applied on magnetically steerable microrobots by fabricating microsystems via layer-by-layer self-assembly. By doing this, the diffusion of chemicals from the hydrogel layers to the external environment can be optimized and the phenomenon of burst release can be strongly limited. The microrobotic platforms employed to transport the hydrogel active material are fabricated by employing 3D printing in combination with wet metallization and present a gold layer on their surface to enhance biocompatibility. The maneuverability of microdevices coated with both thin and thick multilayers is investigated, individuating optimized parameters for efficient actuation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Bernasconi
- Department of Chemistry, Materials and Chemical Engineering“Giulio Natta”, Politecnico di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Fabio Pizzetti
- Department of Chemistry, Materials and Chemical Engineering“Giulio Natta”, Politecnico di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Arianna Rossetti
- Department of Chemistry, Materials and Chemical Engineering“Giulio Natta”, Politecnico di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Brendan Butler
- Department of Chemistry, Materials and Chemical Engineering“Giulio Natta”, Politecnico di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Marinella Levi
- Department of Chemistry, Materials and Chemical Engineering“Giulio Natta”, Politecnico di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Salvador Pané
- Multi-Scale Robotics Laboratory, Institute of Robotics and Intelligent Systems, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Filippo Rossi
- Department of Chemistry, Materials and Chemical Engineering“Giulio Natta”, Politecnico di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Luca Magagnin
- Department of Chemistry, Materials and Chemical Engineering“Giulio Natta”, Politecnico di Milano, Milano, Italy
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46
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Jin D, Yuan K, Du X, Wang Q, Wang S, Zhang L. Domino Reaction Encoded Heterogeneous Colloidal Microswarm with On-Demand Morphological Adaptability. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2021; 33:e2100070. [PMID: 34337789 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202100070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2021] [Revised: 06/09/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Emulating natural swarm intelligence with group-level functionality in artificial micro/nanorobotic systems offers an opportunity to sublimate the limited functions of individuals and revolutionize their applications. However, achieving synchronous operation of microswarms with environmental adaptability and cooperative tasking capability remains a challenge. Here, an adaptive and heterogeneous colloidal magnetic microswarm with domino reaction encoded cooperative functions is presented. Through programming external magnetic fields, the system self-organizes into two swarm states, that is, vortex and ribbon microswarms, which can switch between each other reversibly within seconds, allowing to traverse tortuous, branched, and confined environments through adaptive morphological transformation. By specializing subgroups of building blocks with separate functions, cooperative tasking capability is integrated into the heterogeneous system following a "division of labor" manner. Given targeted therapy as a proof-of-concept task, the coordinated delivery of heterogeneous colloidal system across a complex environment with an access rate higher than 90% is demonstrated, and the specialization and cooperation between building blocks to disrupt multiple growth pathways of cancer cells via domino reaction are realized. The reconfigurable microswarm with hierarchical functionality presents a bioinspired approach to adapt to environmental variations and address multitasking requirements, which advances the development of microrobotic swarms and promises major benefits in biomedical fields.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dongdong Jin
- Department of Mechanical and Automation Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, China
| | - Ke Yuan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, China
| | - Xingzhou Du
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, China
| | - Qianqian Wang
- Department of Mechanical and Automation Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, China
| | - Shijie Wang
- Department of Mechanical and Automation Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, China
| | - Li Zhang
- Department of Mechanical and Automation Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, China
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, China
- Chow Yuk Ho Technology Centre for Innovative Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, China
- T-Stone Robotics Institute, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, 999077, China
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47
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Zanovello L, Faccioli P, Franosch T, Caraglio M. Optimal navigation strategy of active Brownian particles in target-search problems. J Chem Phys 2021; 155:084901. [PMID: 34470340 DOI: 10.1063/5.0064007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
We investigate exploration patterns of a microswimmer, modeled as an active Brownian particle, searching for a target region located in a well of an energy landscape and separated from the initial position of the particle by high barriers. We find that the microswimmer can enhance its success rate in finding the target by tuning its activity and its persistence in response to features of the environment. The target-search patterns of active Brownian particles are counterintuitive and display characteristics robust to changes in the energy landscape. On the contrary, the transition rates and transition-path times are sensitive to the details of the specific energy landscape. In striking contrast to the passive case, the presence of additional local minima does not significantly slow down the active-target-search dynamics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luigi Zanovello
- Institut für Theoretische Physik, Universität Innsbruck, Technikerstraße 21A, A-6020 Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Pietro Faccioli
- Dipartimento di Fisica, Università degli Studi di Trento, Via Sommarive 14, 38123 Trento, Italy
| | - Thomas Franosch
- Institut für Theoretische Physik, Universität Innsbruck, Technikerstraße 21A, A-6020 Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Michele Caraglio
- Institut für Theoretische Physik, Universität Innsbruck, Technikerstraße 21A, A-6020 Innsbruck, Austria
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48
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How does the Internet of Things (IoT) help in microalgae biorefinery? Biotechnol Adv 2021; 54:107819. [PMID: 34454007 DOI: 10.1016/j.biotechadv.2021.107819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2021] [Revised: 07/27/2021] [Accepted: 08/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Microalgae biorefinery is a platform for the conversion of microalgal biomass into a variety of value-added products, such as biofuels, bio-based chemicals, biomaterials, and bioactive substances. Commercialization and industrialization of microalgae biorefinery heavily rely on the capability and efficiency of large-scale cultivation of microalgae. Thus, there is an urgent need for novel technologies that can be used to monitor, automatically control, and precisely predict microalgae production. In light of this, innovative applications of the Internet of things (IoT) technologies in microalgae biorefinery have attracted tremendous research efforts. IoT has potential applications in a microalgae biorefinery for the automatic control of microalgae cultivation, monitoring and manipulation of microalgal cultivation parameters, optimization of microalgae productivity, identification of toxic algae species, screening of target microalgae species, classification of microalgae species, and viability detection of microalgal cells. In this critical review, cutting-edge IoT technologies that could be adopted to microalgae biorefinery in the upstream and downstream processing are described comprehensively. The current advances of the integration of IoT with microalgae biorefinery are presented. What this review discussed includes automation, sensors, lab-on-chip, and machine learning, which are the main constituent elements and advanced technologies of IoT. Specifically, future research directions are discussed with special emphasis on the development of sensors, the application of microfluidic technology, robotized microalgae, high-throughput platforms, deep learning, and other innovative techniques. This review could contribute greatly to the novelty and relevance in the field of IoT-based microalgae biorefinery to develop smarter, safer, cleaner, greener, and economically efficient techniques for exhaustive energy recovery during the biorefinery process.
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Jin C, Chen Y, Maass CC, Mathijssen AJTM. Collective Entrainment and Confinement Amplify Transport by Schooling Microswimmers. PHYSICAL REVIEW LETTERS 2021; 127:088006. [PMID: 34477448 DOI: 10.1103/physrevlett.127.088006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2021] [Accepted: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Microswimmers can serve as cargo carriers that move deep inside complex flow networks. When a school collectively entrains the surrounding fluid, their transport capacity can be enhanced. This effect is quantified with good agreement between experiments with self-propelled droplets and a confined Brinkman squirmer model. The volume of liquid entrained can be much larger than the droplet itself, amplifying the effective cargo capacity over an order of magnitude, even for dilute schools. Hence, biological and engineered swimmers can efficiently transport materials into confined environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenyu Jin
- Experimentalphysik I, Universität Bayreuth, Bayreuth 95440, Germany
- Max Planck Institute for Dynamics and Self-Organization and Institute for the Dynamics of Complex Systems, Georg August Universität, 37077 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Yibo Chen
- Physics of Fluids Group, Max Planck Center for Complex Fluid Dynamics, MESA+ Institute and J. M. Burgers Center for Fluid Dynamics, University of Twente, PO Box 217,7500 AE Enschede, The Netherlands
| | - Corinna C Maass
- Max Planck Institute for Dynamics and Self-Organization and Institute for the Dynamics of Complex Systems, Georg August Universität, 37077 Göttingen, Germany
- Physics of Fluids Group, Max Planck Center for Complex Fluid Dynamics, MESA+ Institute and J. M. Burgers Center for Fluid Dynamics, University of Twente, PO Box 217,7500 AE Enschede, The Netherlands
| | - Arnold J T M Mathijssen
- Department of Physics & Astronomy, University of Pennsylvania, 209 South 33rd Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, USA
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Escherichiacoli Nissle 1917 as a Novel Microrobot for Tumor-Targeted Imaging and Therapy. Pharmaceutics 2021; 13:pharmaceutics13081226. [PMID: 34452187 PMCID: PMC8401140 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics13081226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2021] [Revised: 07/24/2021] [Accepted: 08/05/2021] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Highly efficient drug delivery systems with excellent tumor selectivity and minimal toxicity to normal tissues remain challenging for tumor treatment. Although great effort has been made to prolong the blood circulation and improve the delivery efficiency to tumor sites, nanomedicines are rarely approved for clinical application. Bacteria have the inherent properties of homing to solid tumors, presenting themselves as promising drug delivery systems. Escherichia coli Nissle 1917 (EcN) is a commonly used probiotic in clinical practice. Its facultative anaerobic property drives it to selectively colonize in the hypoxic area of the tumor for survival and reproduction. EcN can be engineered as a bacteria-based microrobot for molecular imaging, drug delivery, and gene delivery. This review summarizes the progress in EcN-mediated tumor imaging and therapy and discusses the prospects and challenges for its clinical application. EcN provides a new idea as a delivery vehicle and will be a powerful weapon against cancer.
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