1
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Mishra AK, Kim J, Baghdadi H, Johnson BR, Hodge KT, Shepherd RF. Sensorimotor control of robots mediated by electrophysiological measurements of fungal mycelia. Sci Robot 2024; 9:eadk8019. [PMID: 39196952 DOI: 10.1126/scirobotics.adk8019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 07/30/2024] [Indexed: 08/30/2024]
Abstract
Living tissues are still far from being used as practical components in biohybrid robots because of limitations in life span, sensitivity to environmental factors, and stringent culture procedures. Here, we introduce fungal mycelia as an easy-to-use and robust living component in biohybrid robots. We constructed two biohybrid robots that use the electrophysiological activity of living mycelia to control their artificial actuators. The mycelia sense their environment and issue action potential-like spiking voltages as control signals to the motors and valves of the robots that we designed and built. The paper highlights two key innovations: first, a vibration- and electromagnetic interference-shielded mycelium electrical interface that allows for stable, long-term electrophysiological bioelectric recordings during untethered, mobile operation; second, a control architecture for robots inspired by neural central pattern generators, incorporating rhythmic patterns of positive and negative spikes from the living mycelia. We used these signals to control a walking soft robot as well as a wheeled hard one. We also demonstrated the use of mycelia to respond to environmental cues by using ultraviolet light stimulation to augment the robots' gaits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anand Kumar Mishra
- Sibley School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | - Jaeseok Kim
- Department of Industrial Engineering, University of Florence, Florence, Tuscany 50139, Italy
| | - Hannah Baghdadi
- Sibley School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | - Bruce R Johnson
- Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | - Kathie T Hodge
- Plant Pathology and Plant-Microbe Biology Section, School of Integrative Plant Science, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | - Robert F Shepherd
- Sibley School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
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2
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Ijaz M, Hasan I, Chaudhry TH, Huang R, Zhang L, Hu Z, Tan Q, Guo B. Bacterial derivatives mediated drug delivery in cancer therapy: a new generation strategy. J Nanobiotechnology 2024; 22:510. [PMID: 39182109 PMCID: PMC11344338 DOI: 10.1186/s12951-024-02786-w] [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: 06/06/2024] [Accepted: 08/18/2024] [Indexed: 08/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Cancer is measured as a major threat to human life and is a leading cause of death. Millions of cancer patients die every year, although a burgeoning number of researchers have been making tremendous efforts to develop cancer medicine to fight against cancer. Owing to the complexity and heterogeneity of cancer, lack of ability to treat deep tumor tissues, and high toxicity to the normal cells, it complicates the therapy of cancer. However, bacterial derivative-mediated drug delivery has raised the interest of researchers in overcoming the restrictions of conventional cancer chemotherapy. In this review, we show various examples of tumor-targeting bacteria and bacterial derivatives for the delivery of anticancer drugs. This review also describes the advantages and limitations of delivering anticancer treatment drugs under regulated conditions employing these tumor-targeting bacteria and their membrane vesicles. This study highlights the substantial potential for clinical translation of bacterial-based drug carriers, improve their ability to work with other treatment modalities, and provide a more powerful, dependable, and distinctive tumor therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Ijaz
- School of Science, Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Flexible Printed Electronics Technology, Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Advanced Functional Carbon Materials Research and Comprehensive Application, Harbin Institute of Technology, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Ikram Hasan
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Medical School, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518060, Guangdong, China
| | - Tamoor Hamid Chaudhry
- Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) Containment & Infection Prevention & Control (IPC) Program, National Institute of Health, Chak Shahzad, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Rui Huang
- Department of Blood Transfusion, Jiangxi Provincial People's Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang Medical College, Nanchang, 330000, China
| | - Lan Zhang
- Department of Blood Transfusion, Jiangxi Provincial People's Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang Medical College, Nanchang, 330000, China
| | - Ziwei Hu
- Institute of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Guangzhou Red Cross Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510282, China.
| | - Qingqin Tan
- Department of Blood Transfusion, Jiangxi Provincial People's Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang Medical College, Nanchang, 330000, China.
| | - Bing Guo
- School of Science, Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Flexible Printed Electronics Technology, Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Advanced Functional Carbon Materials Research and Comprehensive Application, Harbin Institute of Technology, Shenzhen, 518055, China.
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3
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Wu W, Wang Y, Yang H, Chen H, Wang C, Liang J, Song Y, Xu S, Sun Y, Wang L. Antibacterial and Biofilm Removal Strategies Based on Micro/Nanomotors in the Biomedical Field. ChemMedChem 2024:e202400349. [PMID: 38965060 DOI: 10.1002/cmdc.202400349] [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: 05/08/2024] [Revised: 06/30/2024] [Accepted: 07/04/2024] [Indexed: 07/06/2024]
Abstract
Bacterial infection, which can trigger varieties of diseases and tens of thousands of deaths each year, poses serious threats to human health. Particularly, the new dilemma caused by biofilms is gradually becoming a severe and tough problem in the biomedical field. Thus, the strategies to address these problems are considered an urgent task at present. Micro/nanomotors (MNMs), also named micro/nanoscale robots, are mostly driven by chemical energy or external field, exhibiting strong diffusion and self-propulsion in the liquid media, which has the potential for antibacterial applications. In particular, when MNMs are assembled in swarms, they become robust and efficient for biofilm removal. However, there is a lack of comprehensive review discussing the progress in this aspect. Bearing it in mind and based on our own research experience in this regard, the studies on MNMs driven by different mechanisms orchestrated for antibacterial activity and biofilm removal are timely and concisely summarized and discussed in this work, aiming to show the advantages of MNMs brought to this field. In addition, an outlook was proposed, hoping to provide the fundamental guidance for future development in this area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenlu Wu
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, 150001, China
| | - Yuxin Wang
- Emergency Department, Harbin First Hospital, Harbin, 150010, China
| | - Haiyue Yang
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, 150001, China
| | - Haixu Chen
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, 150001, China
| | - Cong Wang
- Department of Microwave Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, 150001, China
| | - Junge Liang
- Department of Electronic Engineering, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, 214122, China
| | - Yiran Song
- Department of Electronic Engineering, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, 214122, China
| | - Shanshan Xu
- Emergency Department, Harbin First Hospital, Harbin, 150010, China
| | - Yuan Sun
- Center of Pharmaceutical Engineering and Technology, Harbin University of Commerce, Harbin, 150076, China
| | - Lei Wang
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, 150001, China
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Hövelmann SC, Dieball E, Kuhn J, Dargasz M, Giri RP, Reise F, Paulus M, Lindhorst TK, Murphy BM. Photoinduced bidirectional mesophase transition in vesicles containing azobenzene amphiphiles. IUCRJ 2024; 11:486-493. [PMID: 38805319 PMCID: PMC11220873 DOI: 10.1107/s2052252524004032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2024] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024]
Abstract
The functionality and efficiency of proteins within a biological membrane are highly dependent on both the membrane lipid composition and the physiochemical properties of the solution. Lipid mesophases are directly influenced by changes in temperature, pH, water content or due to individual properties of single lipids such as photoswitchability. In this work, we were able to induce light- and temperature-driven mesophase transitions in a model membrane system containing a mixture of 1,2-dipalmitoyl-phosphatidylcholine phospholipids and azobenzene amphiphiles. We observed reversible and reproducible transitions between the lamellar and Pn3m cubic phase after illuminating the sample for 5 min with light of 365 and 455 nm wavelengths, respectively, to switch between the cis and trans states of the azobenzene N=N double bond. These light-controlled mesophase transitions were found for mixed complexes with up to 20% content of the photosensitive molecule and at temperatures below the gel-to-liquid crystalline phase transition temperature of 33°C. Our results demonstrate the potential to design bespoke model systems to study the response of membrane lipids and proteins upon changes in mesophase without altering the environment and thus provide a possible basis for drug delivery systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Svenja C. Hövelmann
- Institute of Experimental and Applied PhysicsKiel UniversityLeibnizstraße 1924118 KielGermany
- Deutsche Elektronen-Synchrotron DESYNotkestraße 8522607 HamburgGermany
- Ruprecht Haensel Laboratory, Olshausenstraße 40, 24098 Kiel, Germany
| | - Ella Dieball
- Institute of Experimental and Applied PhysicsKiel UniversityLeibnizstraße 1924118 KielGermany
| | - Jule Kuhn
- Institute of Experimental and Applied PhysicsKiel UniversityLeibnizstraße 1924118 KielGermany
| | - Michelle Dargasz
- Department PhysikUniversität SiegenWalter-Flex-Strasse 357072 SiegenGermany
| | - Rajendra P. Giri
- Institute of Experimental and Applied PhysicsKiel UniversityLeibnizstraße 1924118 KielGermany
| | - Franziska Reise
- Otto Diels Institute of Organic ChemistryKiel UniversityOtto-Hahn-Platz 3-424118 KielGermany
| | - Michael Paulus
- Fakultät Physik/DELTA, TU Dortmund, 44221 Dortmund, Germany
| | - Thisbe K. Lindhorst
- Otto Diels Institute of Organic ChemistryKiel UniversityOtto-Hahn-Platz 3-424118 KielGermany
| | - Bridget M. Murphy
- Institute of Experimental and Applied PhysicsKiel UniversityLeibnizstraße 1924118 KielGermany
- Ruprecht Haensel Laboratory, Olshausenstraße 40, 24098 Kiel, Germany
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Zhang C, Yang L, Wang W, Fan H, Tan W, Wang R, Wang F, Xi N, Liu L. Steering Muscle-Based Bio-Syncretic Robot Through Bionic Optimized Biped Mechanical Design. Soft Robot 2024; 11:484-493. [PMID: 38407843 DOI: 10.1089/soro.2023.0121] [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: 02/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Bio-syncretic robots consisting of artificial structures and living muscle cells have attracted much attention owing to their potential advantages, such as high drive efficiency, miniaturization, and compatibility. Motion controllability, as an important factor related to the main performance of bio-syncretic robots, has been explored in numerous studies. However, most of the existing bio-syncretic robots still face challenges related to the further development of steerable kinematic dexterity. In this study, a bionic optimized biped fully soft bio-syncretic robot actuated by two muscle tissues and steered with a direction-controllable electric field generated by external circularly distributed multiple electrodes has been developed. The developed bio-syncretic robot could realize wirelessly steerable motion and effective transportation of microparticle cargo on artificial polystyrene and biological pork tripe surfaces. This study may provide an effective strategy for the development of bio-syncretic robots and other related studies, such as nonliving soft robot design and muscle tissue engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chuang Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Robotics, Shenyang Institute of Automation, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenyang, China
- Institutes for Robotics and Intelligent Manufacturing, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenyang, China
| | - Lianchao Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Robotics, Shenyang Institute of Automation, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenyang, China
- Institutes for Robotics and Intelligent Manufacturing, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenyang, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Wenxue Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Robotics, Shenyang Institute of Automation, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenyang, China
- Institutes for Robotics and Intelligent Manufacturing, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenyang, China
| | - Huijie Fan
- State Key Laboratory of Robotics, Shenyang Institute of Automation, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenyang, China
- Institutes for Robotics and Intelligent Manufacturing, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenyang, China
| | - Wenjun Tan
- State Key Laboratory of Robotics, Shenyang Institute of Automation, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenyang, China
- Institutes for Robotics and Intelligent Manufacturing, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenyang, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Ruiqian Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Robotics, Shenyang Institute of Automation, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenyang, China
- Institutes for Robotics and Intelligent Manufacturing, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenyang, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Feifei Wang
- Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Ning Xi
- State Key Laboratory of Robotics, Shenyang Institute of Automation, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenyang, China
- Institutes for Robotics and Intelligent Manufacturing, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenyang, China
- Emerging Technologies Institute, Department of Industrial and Manufacturing Systems Engineering, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Lianqing Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Robotics, Shenyang Institute of Automation, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenyang, China
- Institutes for Robotics and Intelligent Manufacturing, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenyang, China
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Jia J, Wang X, Lin X, Zhao Y. Engineered Microorganisms for Advancing Tumor Therapy. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2024; 36:e2313389. [PMID: 38485221 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202313389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2023] [Revised: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024]
Abstract
Engineered microorganisms have attracted significant interest as a unique therapeutic platform in tumor treatment. Compared with conventional cancer treatment strategies, engineering microorganism-based systems provide various distinct advantages, such as the intrinsic capability in targeting tumors, their inherent immunogenicity, in situ production of antitumor agents, and multiple synergistic functions to fight against tumors. Herein, the design, preparation, and application of the engineered microorganisms for advanced tumor therapy are thoroughly reviewed. This review presents a comprehensive survey of innovative tumor therapeutic strategies based on a series of representative engineered microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, microalgae, and fungi. Specifically, it offers extensive analyses of the design principles, engineering strategies, and tumor therapeutic mechanisms, as well as the advantages and limitations of different engineered microorganism-based systems. Finally, the current challenges and future research prospects in this field, which can inspire new ideas for the design of creative tumor therapy paradigms utilizing engineered microorganisms and facilitate their clinical applications, are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinxuan Jia
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, China
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210096, China
- National Center for International Research of Bio-targeting Theranostics, Guangxi Key Laboratory of Bio-targeting Theranostics, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, 530021, China
| | - Xiaocheng Wang
- Oujiang Laboratory (Zhejiang Lab for Regenerative Medicine, Vision and Brain Health), Wenzhou Institute, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wenzhou, 325001, China
| | - Xiang Lin
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210096, China
- Oujiang Laboratory (Zhejiang Lab for Regenerative Medicine, Vision and Brain Health), Wenzhou Institute, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wenzhou, 325001, China
| | - Yuanjin Zhao
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, China
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210096, China
- Oujiang Laboratory (Zhejiang Lab for Regenerative Medicine, Vision and Brain Health), Wenzhou Institute, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wenzhou, 325001, China
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7
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Xu R, Xu Q. A Survey of Recent Developments in Magnetic Microrobots for Micro-/Nano-Manipulation. MICROMACHINES 2024; 15:468. [PMID: 38675279 PMCID: PMC11052276 DOI: 10.3390/mi15040468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2024] [Revised: 03/23/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
Magnetically actuated microrobots have become a research hotspot in recent years due to their tiny size, untethered control, and rapid response capability. Moreover, an increasing number of researchers are applying them for micro-/nano-manipulation in the biomedical field. This survey provides a comprehensive overview of the recent developments in magnetic microrobots, focusing on materials, propulsion mechanisms, design strategies, fabrication techniques, and diverse micro-/nano-manipulation applications. The exploration of magnetic materials, biosafety considerations, and propulsion methods serves as a foundation for the diverse designs discussed in this review. The paper delves into the design categories, encompassing helical, surface, ciliary, scaffold, and biohybrid microrobots, with each demonstrating unique capabilities. Furthermore, various fabrication techniques, including direct laser writing, glancing angle deposition, biotemplating synthesis, template-assisted electrochemical deposition, and magnetic self-assembly, are examined owing to their contributions to the realization of magnetic microrobots. The potential impact of magnetic microrobots across multidisciplinary domains is presented through various application areas, such as drug delivery, minimally invasive surgery, cell manipulation, and environmental remediation. This review highlights a comprehensive summary of the current challenges, hurdles to overcome, and future directions in magnetic microrobot research across different fields.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Qingsong Xu
- Department of Electromechanical Engineering, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Macau, Avenida da Universidade, Taipa, Macau, China;
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Zhang Q, Zeng Y, Zhao Y, Peng X, Ren E, Liu G. Bio-Hybrid Magnetic Robots: From Bioengineering to Targeted Therapy. Bioengineering (Basel) 2024; 11:311. [PMID: 38671732 PMCID: PMC11047666 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering11040311] [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: 02/20/2024] [Revised: 03/19/2024] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Magnetic robots possess an innate ability to navigate through hard-to-reach cavities in the human body, making them promising tools for diagnosing and treating diseases minimally invasively. Despite significant advances, the development of robots with desirable locomotion and full biocompatibility under harsh physiological conditions remains challenging, which put forward new requirements for magnetic robots' design and material synthesis. Compared to robots that are synthesized with inorganic materials, natural organisms like cells, bacteria or other microalgae exhibit ideal properties for in vivo applications, such as biocompatibility, deformability, auto-fluorescence, and self-propulsion, as well as easy for functional therapeutics engineering. In the process, these organisms can provide autonomous propulsion in biological fluids or external magnetic fields, while retaining their functionalities with integrating artificial robots, thus aiding targeted therapeutic delivery. This kind of robotics is named bio-hybrid magnetic robotics, and in this mini-review, recent progress including their design, engineering and potential for therapeutics delivery will be discussed. Additionally, the historical context and prominent examples will be introduced, and the complexities, potential pitfalls, and opportunities associated with bio-hybrid magnetic robotics will be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Zhang
- Institute of Artificial Intelligence, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005, China; (Q.Z.); (Y.Z.); (Y.Z.); (G.L.)
| | - Yun Zeng
- Institute of Artificial Intelligence, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005, China; (Q.Z.); (Y.Z.); (Y.Z.); (G.L.)
- State Key Laboratory of Vaccines for Infectious Diseases, Center for Molecular Imaging and Translational Medicine, Xiang An Biomedicine Laboratory, School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005, China
| | - Yang Zhao
- Institute of Artificial Intelligence, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005, China; (Q.Z.); (Y.Z.); (Y.Z.); (G.L.)
| | - Xuqi Peng
- Institute of Artificial Intelligence, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005, China; (Q.Z.); (Y.Z.); (Y.Z.); (G.L.)
- State Key Laboratory of Vaccines for Infectious Diseases, Center for Molecular Imaging and Translational Medicine, Xiang An Biomedicine Laboratory, School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005, China
| | - En Ren
- Institute of Artificial Intelligence, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005, China; (Q.Z.); (Y.Z.); (Y.Z.); (G.L.)
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Delivery Systems, Zhejiang Province College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Gang Liu
- Institute of Artificial Intelligence, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005, China; (Q.Z.); (Y.Z.); (Y.Z.); (G.L.)
- State Key Laboratory of Vaccines for Infectious Diseases, Center for Molecular Imaging and Translational Medicine, Xiang An Biomedicine Laboratory, School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005, China
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9
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Sharifi Panah S, Großmann R, Lepro V, Beta C. Cargo Size Limits and Forces of Cell-Driven Microtransport. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2024; 20:e2304666. [PMID: 37933711 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202304666] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2023] [Revised: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 11/08/2023]
Abstract
The integration of motile cells into biohybrid microrobots offers unique properties such as sensitive responses to external stimuli, resilience, and intrinsic energy supply. Here, biohybrid cell-cargo systems that are driven by amoeboid Dictyostelium discoideum cells are studied and how the cargo speed and the resulting viscous drag force scales with increasing radius of the spherical cargo particle are explored. Using a simplified geometrical model of the cell-cargo interaction, the findings toward larger cargo sizes, which are not accessible with the experimental setup, are extrapolated and a maximal cargo size is predicted beyond which active cell-driven movements will stall. The active forces exerted by the cells to move a cargo show mechanoresponsive adaptation and increase dramatically when challenged by an external pulling force, a mechanism that may become relevant when navigating cargo through complex heterogeneous environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Setareh Sharifi Panah
- Institute of Physics and Astronomy, University of Potsdam, Karl-Liebknecht Straße 24/25, 14476, Potsdam, Germany
| | - Robert Großmann
- Institute of Physics and Astronomy, University of Potsdam, Karl-Liebknecht Straße 24/25, 14476, Potsdam, Germany
| | - Valentino Lepro
- Institute of Physics and Astronomy, University of Potsdam, Karl-Liebknecht Straße 24/25, 14476, Potsdam, Germany
| | - Carsten Beta
- Institute of Physics and Astronomy, University of Potsdam, Karl-Liebknecht Straße 24/25, 14476, Potsdam, Germany
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10
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Bo Y, Wang H, Niu H, He X, Xue Q, Li Z, Yang H, Niu F. Advancements in materials, manufacturing, propulsion and localization: propelling soft robotics for medical applications. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2024; 11:1327441. [PMID: 38260727 PMCID: PMC10800571 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2023.1327441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Soft robotics is an emerging field showing immense potential for biomedical applications. This review summarizes recent advancements in soft robotics for in vitro and in vivo medical contexts. Their inherent flexibility, adaptability, and biocompatibility enable diverse capabilities from surgical assistance to minimally invasive diagnosis and therapy. Intelligent stimuli-responsive materials and bioinspired designs are enhancing functionality while improving biocompatibility. Additive manufacturing techniques facilitate rapid prototyping and customization. Untethered chemical, biological, and wireless propulsion methods are overcoming previous constraints to access new sites. Meanwhile, advances in tracking modalities like computed tomography, fluorescence and ultrasound imaging enable precision localization and control enable in vivo applications. While still maturing, soft robotics promises more intelligent, less invasive technologies to improve patient care. Continuing research into biocompatibility, power supplies, biomimetics, and seamless localization will help translate soft robots into widespread clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunwen Bo
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Suzhou University of Science and Technology, Suzhou, China
| | - Haochen Wang
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Suzhou University of Science and Technology, Suzhou, China
| | - Hui Niu
- Department of Pathology, Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Xinyang He
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Suzhou University of Science and Technology, Suzhou, China
| | - Quhao Xue
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Suzhou University of Science and Technology, Suzhou, China
| | - Zexi Li
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Suzhou University of Science and Technology, Suzhou, China
| | - Hao Yang
- Robotics and Microsystems Center, School of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Fuzhou Niu
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Suzhou University of Science and Technology, Suzhou, China
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11
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Chen B, Sun H, Zhang J, Xu J, Song Z, Zhan G, Bai X, Feng L. Cell-Based Micro/Nano-Robots for Biomedical Applications: A Review. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2024; 20:e2304607. [PMID: 37653591 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202304607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2023] [Revised: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/02/2023]
Abstract
Micro/nano-robots are powerful tools for biomedical applications and are applied in disease diagnosis, tumor imaging, drug delivery, and targeted therapy. Among the various types of micro-robots, cell-based micro-robots exhibit unique properties because of their different cell sources. In combination with various actuation methods, particularly externally propelled methods, cell-based microrobots have enormous potential for biomedical applications. This review introduces recent progress and applications of cell-based micro/nano-robots. Different actuation methods for micro/nano-robots are summarized, and cell-based micro-robots with different cell templates are introduced. Furthermore, the review focuses on the combination of cell-based micro/nano-robots with precise control using different external fields. Potential challenges, further prospects, and clinical translations are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo Chen
- School of Mechanical Engineering and Automation, Beihang University, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Hongyan Sun
- School of Mechanical Engineering and Automation, Beihang University, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Jiaying Zhang
- School of Mechanical Engineering and Automation, Beihang University, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Junjie Xu
- School of Mechanical Engineering and Automation, Beihang University, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Zeyu Song
- School of Mechanical Engineering and Automation, Beihang University, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Guangdong Zhan
- School of Mechanical Engineering and Automation, Beihang University, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Xue Bai
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, China
| | - Lin Feng
- School of Mechanical Engineering and Automation, Beihang University, Beijing, 100191, China
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Biomedical Engineering, Beihang University, Beijing, 100191, China
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Niu J, Liu C, Yang X, Liang W, Wang Y. Construction of micro-nano robots: living cells and functionalized biological cell membranes. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2023; 11:1277964. [PMID: 37781535 PMCID: PMC10539914 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2023.1277964] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Micro-nano robots have emerged as a promising research field with vast potential applications in biomedicine. The motor is the key component of micro-nano robot research, and the design of the motor is crucial. Among the most commonly used motors are those derived from living cells such as bacteria with flagella, sperm, and algal cells. Additionally, scientists have developed numerous self-adaptive biomimetic motors with biological functions, primarily cell membrane functionalized micromotors. This novel type of motor exhibits remarkable performance in complex media. This paper provides a comprehensive review of the structure and performance of micro-nano robots that utilize living cells and functionalized biological cell membranes. We also discuss potential practical applications of these mirco-nano robots as well as potential challenges that may arise in future development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiawen Niu
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Chenlu Liu
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Xiaopeng Yang
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Wenlong Liang
- Department of Breast Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Yufu Wang
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
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13
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Cheng W, He L, Ren W, Yue T, Xie X, Sun J, Chen X, Wu Z, Li F, Piao JG. Bacteria-nanodrug cancer treatment system: The combination of dual swords and the confrontation of needle tips. NANO TRANSMED 2023; 2:100008. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ntm.2023.100008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2023]
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14
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Cheng W, He L, Ren W, Yue T, Xie X, Sun J, Chen X, Wu Z, Li F, Piao JG. Bacteria-nanodrug cancer treatment system: The combination of dual swords and the confrontation of needle tips. NANO TRANSMED 2023; 2:100008. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ntm.2023.100008 received in revised form 24 august 2023; acce] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2023]
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15
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Wang Y, Chen J, Su G, Mei J, Li J. A Review of Single-Cell Microrobots: Classification, Driving Methods and Applications. MICROMACHINES 2023; 14:1710. [PMID: 37763873 PMCID: PMC10537272 DOI: 10.3390/mi14091710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Revised: 08/19/2023] [Accepted: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023]
Abstract
Single-cell microrobots are new microartificial devices that use a combination of single cells and artificial devices, with the advantages of small size, easy degradation and ease of manufacture. With externally driven strategies such as light fields, sound fields and magnetic fields, microrobots are able to carry out precise micromanipulations and movements in complex microenvironments. Therefore, single-cell microrobots have received more and more attention and have been greatly developed in recent years. In this paper, we review the main classifications, control methods and recent advances in the field of single-cell microrobot applications. First, different types of robots, such as cell-based microrobots, bacteria-based microrobots, algae-based microrobots, etc., and their design strategies and fabrication processes are discussed separately. Next, three types of external field-driven technologies, optical, acoustic and magnetic, are presented and operations realized in vivo and in vitro by applying these three technologies are described. Subsequently, the results achieved by these robots in the fields of precise delivery, minimally invasive therapy are analyzed. Finally, a short summary is given and current challenges and future work on microbial-based robotics are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Junyang Li
- School of Electronic Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266000, China; (Y.W.); (J.C.); (G.S.); (J.M.)
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16
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Paul J, Or Y, Gendelman OV. Nonlinear dynamics and bifurcations of a planar undulating magnetic microswimmer. Phys Rev E 2023; 107:054211. [PMID: 37328970 DOI: 10.1103/physreve.107.054211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2022] [Accepted: 04/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Swimming microorganisms such as flagellated bacteria and sperm cells have fascinating locomotion capabilities. Inspired by their natural motion, there is an ongoing effort to develop artificial robotic nanoswimmers for potential in-body biomedical applications. A leading method for actuation of nanoswimmers is by applying a time-varying external magnetic field. Such systems have rich and nonlinear dynamics that call for simple fundamental models. A previous work studied forward motion of a simple two-link model with a passive elastic joint, assuming small-amplitude planar oscillations of the magnetic field about a constant direction. In this work, we found that there exists a faster, backward motion of the swimmer with very rich dynamics. By relaxing the small-amplitude assumption, we analyze the multiplicity of periodic solutions, as well as their bifurcations, symmetry breaking, and stability transitions. We have also found that the net displacement and/or mean swimming speed are maximized for optimal choices of various parameters. Asymptotic calculations are performed for the bifurcation condition and the swimmer's mean speed. The results may enable significantly improving the design aspects of magnetically actuated robotic microswimmers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jithu Paul
- Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Technion City, Haifa 3200003, Israel
| | - Yizhar Or
- Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Technion City, Haifa 3200003, Israel
| | - Oleg V Gendelman
- Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Technion City, Haifa 3200003, Israel
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17
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Weymann A, Foroughi J, Vardanyan R, Punjabi PP, Schmack B, Aloko S, Spinks GM, Wang CH, Arjomandi Rad A, Ruhparwar A. Artificial Muscles and Soft Robotic Devices for Treatment of End-Stage Heart Failure. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2023; 35:e2207390. [PMID: 36269015 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202207390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2022] [Revised: 09/19/2022] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
Medical soft robotics constitutes a rapidly developing field in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases, with a promising future for millions of patients suffering from heart failure worldwide. Herein, the present state and future direction of artificial muscle-based soft robotic biomedical devices in supporting the inotropic function of the heart are reviewed, focusing on the emerging electrothermally artificial heart muscles (AHMs). Artificial muscle powered soft robotic devices can mimic the action of complex biological systems such as heart compression and twisting. These artificial muscles possess the ability to undergo complex deformations, aiding cardiac function while maintaining a limited weight and use of space. Two very promising candidates for artificial muscles are electrothermally actuated AHMs and biohybrid actuators using living cells or tissue embedded with artificial structures. Electrothermally actuated AHMs have demonstrated superior force generation while creating the prospect for fully soft robotic actuated ventricular assist devices. This review will critically analyze the limitations of currently available devices and discuss opportunities and directions for future research. Last, the properties of the cardiac muscle are reviewed and compared with those of different materials suitable for mechanical cardiac compression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Weymann
- Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, West German Heart and Vascular Center, University of Duisburg-Essen, Hufelandstraße 55, 45122, Essen, Germany
| | - Javad Foroughi
- Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, West German Heart and Vascular Center, University of Duisburg-Essen, Hufelandstraße 55, 45122, Essen, Germany
- Faculty of Engineering and Information Sciences, University of Wollongong, Northfields Ave, Wollongong, NSW, 2522, Australia
- School of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, University of New South Wales, Library Rd, Kensington, NSW, 2052, Australia
| | - Robert Vardanyan
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, Imperial College Road, London, SW7 2AZ, UK
| | - Prakash P Punjabi
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Hammersmith Hospital, National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, 72 Du Cane Rd, London, W12 0HS, UK
| | - Bastian Schmack
- Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, West German Heart and Vascular Center, University of Duisburg-Essen, Hufelandstraße 55, 45122, Essen, Germany
| | - Sinmisola Aloko
- Faculty of Engineering and Information Sciences, University of Wollongong, Northfields Ave, Wollongong, NSW, 2522, Australia
| | - Geoffrey M Spinks
- Faculty of Engineering and Information Sciences, University of Wollongong, Northfields Ave, Wollongong, NSW, 2522, Australia
| | - Chun H Wang
- School of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, University of New South Wales, Library Rd, Kensington, NSW, 2052, Australia
| | - Arian Arjomandi Rad
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, Imperial College Road, London, SW7 2AZ, UK
| | - Arjang Ruhparwar
- Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, West German Heart and Vascular Center, University of Duisburg-Essen, Hufelandstraße 55, 45122, Essen, Germany
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18
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Gurung JP, Navvab Kashani M, de Silva CM, Baker MAB. Microbial stir bars: Light-activated rotation of tethered bacterial cells to enhance mixing in stagnant fluids. BIOMICROFLUIDICS 2023; 17:024108. [PMID: 37124628 PMCID: PMC10147410 DOI: 10.1063/5.0144934] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2023] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Microfluidics devices are gaining significant interest in biomedical applications. However, in a micron-scale device, reaction speed is often limited by the slow rate of diffusion of the reagents. Several active and passive micro-mixers have been fabricated to enhance mixing in microfluidic devices. Here, we demonstrate external control of mixing by rotating a rod-shaped bacterial cell. This rotation is driven by ion transit across the bacterial flagellar stator complex. We first measured the flow fields generated by rotating a single bacterial cell rotationally locked to rotate either clockwise (CW) or counterclockwise (CCW). Micro-particle image velocimetry (μPIV) and particle tracking velocimetry results showed that a bacterial cell of ∼ 2.75 μm long, rotating at 5.75 ± 0.39 Hz in a counterclockwise direction could generate distinct micro-vortices with circular flow fields with a mean velocity of 4.72 ± 1.67 μm/s and maximum velocity of 7.90 μm/s in aqueous solution. We verified our experimental data with a numerical simulation at matched flow conditions, which revealed vortices of similar dimensions and speed. We observed that the flow-field diminished with increasing z-height above the plane of the rotating cell. Lastly, we showed that we could activate and tune rotational mixing remotely using strains engineered with proteorhodopsin, where rotation could be activated by controlled external illumination using green laser light (561 nm).
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Affiliation(s)
- Jyoti P. Gurung
- School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Science, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales 2052, Australia
| | | | - Charitha M. de Silva
- School of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales 2052, Australia
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19
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Flagellum-driven cargoes: Influence of cargo size and the flagellum-cargo attachment geometry. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0279940. [PMID: 36897856 PMCID: PMC10004597 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0279940] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/17/2022] [Indexed: 03/11/2023] Open
Abstract
The beating of cilia and flagella, which relies on an efficient conversion of energy from ATP-hydrolysis into mechanical work, offers a promising way to propel synthetic cargoes. Recent experimental realizations of such micro-swimmers, in which micron-sized beads are propelled by isolated and demembranated flagella from the green algae Chlamydomonas reinhardtii (C. reinhardtii), revealed a variety of propulsion modes, depending in particular on the calcium concentration. Here, we investigate theoretically and numerically the propulsion of a bead as a function of the flagellar waveform and the attachment geometries between the bead and the flagellum. To this end, we take advantage of the low Reynolds number of the fluid flows generated by the micro-swimmer, which allows us to neglect fluid inertia. By describing the flagellar waveform as a superposition of a static component and a propagating wave, and using resistive-force theory, we show that the asymmetric sideways attachment of the flagellum to the bead makes a contribution to the rotational velocity of the micro-swimmer that is comparable to the contribution caused by the static component of the flagellar waveform. Remarkably, our analysis reveals the existence of a counter-intuitive propulsion regime in which an increase in the size of the cargo, and hence its drag, leads to an increase in some components of the velocity of the bead. Finally, we discuss the relevance of the uncovered mechanisms for the fabrication of synthetic, bio-actuated medical micro-robots for targeted drug delivery.
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20
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Lim S, Du Y, Lee Y, Panda SK, Tong D, Khalid Jawed M. Fabrication, control, and modeling of robots inspired by flagella and cilia. BIOINSPIRATION & BIOMIMETICS 2022; 18:011003. [PMID: 36533860 DOI: 10.1088/1748-3190/aca63d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2022] [Accepted: 11/25/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Flagella and cilia are slender structures that serve important functionalities in the microscopic world through their locomotion induced by fluid and structure interaction. With recent developments in microscopy, fabrication, biology, and modeling capability, robots inspired by the locomotion of these organelles in low Reynolds number flow have been manufactured and tested on the micro-and macro-scale, ranging from medicalin vivomicrobots, microfluidics to macro prototypes. We present a collection of modeling theories, control principles, and fabrication methods for flagellated and ciliary robots.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sangmin Lim
- Department of Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering, Westwood Plaza, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, United States of America
| | - Yayun Du
- Department of Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering, Westwood Plaza, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, United States of America
| | - Yongkyu Lee
- Department of Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering, Westwood Plaza, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, United States of America
| | - Shivam Kumar Panda
- Department of Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering, Westwood Plaza, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, United States of America
| | - Dezhong Tong
- Department of Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering, Westwood Plaza, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, United States of America
| | - M Khalid Jawed
- Department of Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering, Westwood Plaza, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, United States of America
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21
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Recent trends in bioartificial muscle engineering and their applications in cultured meat, biorobotic systems and biohybrid implants. Commun Biol 2022; 5:737. [PMID: 35869250 PMCID: PMC9307618 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-022-03593-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2021] [Accepted: 06/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
AbstractRecent advances in tissue engineering and biofabrication technology have yielded a plethora of biological tissues. Among these, engineering of bioartificial muscle stands out for its exceptional versatility and its wide range of applications. From the food industry to the technology sector and medicine, the development of this tissue has the potential to affect many different industries at once. However, to date, the biofabrication of cultured meat, biorobotic systems, and bioartificial muscle implants are still considered in isolation by individual peer groups. To establish common ground and share advances, this review outlines application-specific requirements for muscle tissue generation and provides a comprehensive overview of commonly used biofabrication strategies and current application trends. By solving the individual challenges and merging various expertise, synergetic leaps of innovation that inspire each other can be expected in all three industries in the future.
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22
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Webster-Wood VA, Guix M, Xu NW, Behkam B, Sato H, Sarkar D, Sanchez S, Shimizu M, Parker KK. Biohybrid robots: recent progress, challenges, and perspectives. BIOINSPIRATION & BIOMIMETICS 2022; 18:015001. [PMID: 36265472 DOI: 10.1088/1748-3190/ac9c3b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2022] [Accepted: 10/20/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The past ten years have seen the rapid expansion of the field of biohybrid robotics. By combining engineered, synthetic components with living biological materials, new robotics solutions have been developed that harness the adaptability of living muscles, the sensitivity of living sensory cells, and even the computational abilities of living neurons. Biohybrid robotics has taken the popular and scientific media by storm with advances in the field, moving biohybrid robotics out of science fiction and into real science and engineering. So how did we get here, and where should the field of biohybrid robotics go next? In this perspective, we first provide the historical context of crucial subareas of biohybrid robotics by reviewing the past 10+ years of advances in microorganism-bots and sperm-bots, cyborgs, and tissue-based robots. We then present critical challenges facing the field and provide our perspectives on the vital future steps toward creating autonomous living machines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria A Webster-Wood
- Mechanical Engineering, Biomedical Engineering (by courtesy), McGowan Institute of Regenerative Medicine, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA 15116, United States of America
| | - Maria Guix
- Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), Baldiri-Reixac 10-12, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
- Departament de Ciència dels Materials i Química Física, Institut de Química Teòrica i Computacional Barcelona, Universitat de Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Nicole W Xu
- Laboratories for Computational Physics and Fluid Dynamics, U.S. Naval Research Laboratory, Code 6041, Washington, DC, United States of America
| | - Bahareh Behkam
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Institute for Critical Technology and Applied Science, Blacksburg, VA 24061, United States of America
| | - Hirotaka Sato
- School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 65 Nanyang Drive, Singapore, 637460, Singapore
| | - Deblina Sarkar
- MIT Media Lab, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, United States of America
| | - Samuel Sanchez
- Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), Baldiri-Reixac 10-12, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
- Catalan Institute for Research and Advanced Studies (ICREA), Avda. Lluis Companys 23, 08010 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Masahiro Shimizu
- Department of Systems Innovation, Graduate School of Engineering Science, Osaka University, 1-3 Machikaneyama-machi, Toyonaka, Osaka, Japan
| | - Kevin Kit Parker
- Disease Biophysics Group, Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering and School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, United States of America
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Huang S, Gao Y, Lv Y, Wang Y, Cao Y, Zhao W, Zuo D, Mu H, Hua Y. Applications of Nano/Micromotors for Treatment and Diagnosis in Biological Lumens. MICROMACHINES 2022; 13:mi13101780. [PMID: 36296133 PMCID: PMC9610721 DOI: 10.3390/mi13101780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2022] [Revised: 10/14/2022] [Accepted: 10/16/2022] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Natural biological lumens in the human body, such as blood vessels and the gastrointestinal tract, are important to the delivery of materials. Depending on the anatomic features of these biological lumens, the invention of nano/micromotors could automatically locomote targeted sites for disease treatment and diagnosis. These nano/micromotors are designed to utilize chemical, physical, or even hybrid power in self-propulsion or propulsion by external forces. In this review, the research progress of nano/micromotors is summarized with regard to treatment and diagnosis in different biological lumens. Challenges to the development of nano/micromotors more suitable for specific biological lumens are discussed, and the overlooked biological lumens are indicated for further studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shandeng Huang
- Department of Orthopedics, Shanghai General Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200080, China
- Shanghai Bone Tumor Institution, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Yinghua Gao
- Department of Orthopedics, Shanghai General Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200080, China
- Shanghai Bone Tumor Institution, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Yu Lv
- Department of Orthopedics, Shanghai General Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200080, China
- Shanghai Bone Tumor Institution, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Yun Wang
- Department of Orthopedics, Shanghai General Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200080, China
- Shanghai Bone Tumor Institution, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Yinghao Cao
- Department of Orthopedics, Shanghai General Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200080, China
- Shanghai Bone Tumor Institution, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Weisong Zhao
- Department of Orthopedics, Shanghai General Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200080, China
- Shanghai Bone Tumor Institution, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Dongqing Zuo
- Department of Orthopedics, Shanghai General Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200080, China
- Shanghai Bone Tumor Institution, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Haoran Mu
- Department of Orthopedics, Shanghai General Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200080, China
- Shanghai Bone Tumor Institution, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Yingqi Hua
- Department of Orthopedics, Shanghai General Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200080, China
- Shanghai Bone Tumor Institution, Shanghai 201620, China
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Abstract
The next robotics frontier will be led by biohybrids. Capable biohybrid robots require microfluidics to sustain, improve, and scale the architectural complexity of their core ingredient: biological tissues. Advances in microfluidics have already revolutionized disease modeling and drug development, and are positioned to impact regenerative medicine but have yet to apply to biohybrids. Fusing microfluidics with living materials will improve tissue perfusion and maturation, and enable precise patterning of sensing, processing, and control elements. This perspective suggests future developments in advanced biohybrids.
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25
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Kim H, Osaki T, Kamm RD, Asada HH. Tri-culture of spatially organizing human skeletal muscle cells, endothelial cells, and fibroblasts enhances contractile force and vascular perfusion of skeletal muscle tissues. FASEB J 2022; 36:e22453. [PMID: 35838893 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202200500r] [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: 03/28/2022] [Revised: 06/21/2022] [Accepted: 07/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Constructing engineered human skeletal muscle tissues that resemble the function and microstructure of human skeletal muscles is key to utilizing them in a variety of applications such as drug development, disease modeling, regenerative medicine, and engineering biological machines. However, current in vitro skeletal muscle tissues are far inferior to native muscles in terms of contractile function and lack essential cues for muscle functions, particularly heterotypic cell-cell interactions between myoblasts, endothelial cells, and fibroblasts. Here, we develop an engineered muscle tissue with a coaxial three-layered tubular structure composed of an inner endothelial cell layer, an endomysium-like layer with fibroblasts in the middle, and an outer skeletal muscle cell layer, similar to the architecture of native skeletal muscles. Engineered skeletal muscle tissues with three spatially organized cell types produced thicker myotubes and lowered Young's modulus through extracellular matrix remodeling, resulting in 43% stronger contractile force. Furthermore, we demonstrated that fibroblasts localized in the endomysium layer induced angiogenic sprouting of endothelial cells into the muscle layer more effectively than fibroblasts homogeneously distributed in the muscle layer. This layered tri-culture system enables a structured spatial configuration of the three main cell types of skeletal muscle and promotes desired paracrine signaling, resulting in improved angiogenesis and increased contractile force. This research offers new insights to efficiently obtain new human skeletal muscle models, transplantable tissues, and actuators for biological machines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyeonyu Kim
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA.,Stanford Cardiovascular Institute and Department of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Tatsuya Osaki
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA.,Picower Institute for Learning and Memory, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Roger D Kamm
- Departments of Biological and Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - H Harry Asada
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
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Gas generation due to photocatalysis as a method to reduce the resistance force in the process of motors motion at the air-liquid interface. J Colloid Interface Sci 2022; 627:774-782. [PMID: 35901558 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcis.2022.07.073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2022] [Revised: 07/07/2022] [Accepted: 07/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
HYPOTHESIS The problem of the development of miniature motors able to move on the air-liquid interface at low Reynolds numbers is a crucial challenge due to dominating role of viscous force. To solve this problem the chemical generation of gas can be used. Generated gas pushes liquid out from the surfer surface, so the resistance force is reduced. EXPERIMENTS Surfer composed of TiO2 nanoparticles and ferromagnetic cobalt microparticles moves at the interface of an aqueous solution of hydrogen peroxide under the action of magnetic force. After irradiation with UV or visible light, the gas cavern is formed at the surfer surface due to photo-catalytic decomposition of hydrogen peroxide. As a result, the area of surfer contact with liquid is reduced. FINDINGS The resistance force acting on the surfer is reduced due to the liquid pushing out from the surfer surface. This effect is strengthened with the increase in the intensity of gas generation. The resistance force is increased when increasing the liquid viscosity or using a surfactant. The proposed method allows control of the velocity of the motors in a rather wide range by changing the gradient of the magnetic field and parameters of light.
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27
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Zhang C, Zhang Y, Wang W, Xi N, Liu L. A Manta Ray-Inspired Biosyncretic Robot with Stable Controllability by Dynamic Electric Stimulation. CYBORG AND BIONIC SYSTEMS 2022. [DOI: 10.34133/2022/9891380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Biosyncretic robots, which are new nature-based robots in addition to bionic robots, that utilize biological materials to realize their core function, have been supposed to further promote the progress in robotics. Actuation as the main operation mechanism relates to the robotic overall performance. Therefore, biosyncretic robots actuated by living biological actuators have attracted increasing attention. However, innovative propelling modes and control methods are still necessary for the further development of controllable motion performance of biosyncretic robots. In this work, a muscle tissue-based biosyncretic swimmer with a manta ray-inspired propelling mode has been developed. What is more, to improve the stable controllability of the biosyncretic swimmer, a dynamic control method based on circularly distributed multiple electrodes (CDME) has been proposed. In this method, the direction of the electric field generated by the CDME could be real-time controlled to be parallel with the actuation tissue of the dynamic swimmer. Therefore, the instability of the tissue actuation induced by the dynamic included angle between the tissue axis and electric field direction could be eliminated. Finally, the biosyncretic robot has demonstrated stable, controllable, and effective swimming, by adjusting the electric stimulation pulse direction, amplitude, and frequency. This work may be beneficial for not only the development of biosyncretic robots but also other related studies including bionic design of soft robots and muscle tissue engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chuang Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Robotics, Shenyang Institute of Automation, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenyang 110016, China
- Institutes for Robotics and Intelligent Manufacturing, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenyang 110169, China
| | - Yiwei Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Robotics, Shenyang Institute of Automation, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenyang 110016, China
- Institutes for Robotics and Intelligent Manufacturing, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenyang 110169, China
- School of Automation and Electrical Engineering, Shenyang Ligong University, Shenyang 110159, China
| | - Wenxue Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Robotics, Shenyang Institute of Automation, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenyang 110016, China
- Institutes for Robotics and Intelligent Manufacturing, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenyang 110169, China
| | - Ning Xi
- State Key Laboratory of Robotics, Shenyang Institute of Automation, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenyang 110016, China
- Institutes for Robotics and Intelligent Manufacturing, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenyang 110169, China
- Emerging Technologies Institute, Department of Industrial & Manufacturing Systems Engineering, University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, China
| | - Lianqing Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Robotics, Shenyang Institute of Automation, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenyang 110016, China
- Institutes for Robotics and Intelligent Manufacturing, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenyang 110169, China
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28
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Ahmad R, Bae AJ, Su YJ, Pozveh SG, Bodenschatz E, Pumir A, Gholami A. Bio-hybrid micro-swimmers propelled by flagella isolated from C. reinhardtii. SOFT MATTER 2022; 18:4767-4777. [PMID: 35703562 DOI: 10.1039/d2sm00574c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Bio-hybrid micro-swimmers, composed of biological entities integrated with synthetic constructs, actively transport cargo by converting chemical energy into mechanical work. Here, using isolated and demembranated flagella from green algae Chlamydomonas reinhardtii (C. reinhardtii), we build efficient axonemally-driven micro-swimmers that consume ATP to propel micron-sized beads. Depending on the calcium concentration, we observed two main classes of motion: whereas beads move along curved trajectories at calcium concentrations below 0.03 mM, they are propelled along straight paths when the calcium concentration increases. In this regime, they reached velocities of approximately 20 μm s-1, comparable to human sperm velocity in vivo. We relate this transition to the properties of beating axonemes, in particular the reduced static curvature with increasing calcium concentration. Our designed system has potential applications in the fabrication of synthetic micro-swimmers, and in particular, bio-actuated medical micro-robots for targeted drug delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raheel Ahmad
- Max Planck Institute for Dynamics and Self-Organization, Am Fassberg 17, D-37077 Göttingen, Germany.
| | - Albert J Bae
- Max Planck Institute for Dynamics and Self-Organization, Am Fassberg 17, D-37077 Göttingen, Germany.
- Lewis & Clark College, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Yu-Jung Su
- Max Planck Institute for Dynamics and Self-Organization, Am Fassberg 17, D-37077 Göttingen, Germany.
| | - Samira Goli Pozveh
- Max Planck Institute for Dynamics and Self-Organization, Am Fassberg 17, D-37077 Göttingen, Germany.
| | - Eberhard Bodenschatz
- Max Planck Institute for Dynamics and Self-Organization, Am Fassberg 17, D-37077 Göttingen, Germany.
- Institute for Dynamics of Complex Systems, University of Göttingen, Göttingen 37077, Germany
- Laboratory of Atomic and Solid-State Physics and Sibley School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York 14853, USA
| | - Alain Pumir
- Max Planck Institute for Dynamics and Self-Organization, Am Fassberg 17, D-37077 Göttingen, Germany.
- Univ Lyon, Ecole Normale Superieure de Lyon, CNRS, Laboratoire de Physique, F-69342 Lyon, France
| | - Azam Gholami
- Max Planck Institute for Dynamics and Self-Organization, Am Fassberg 17, D-37077 Göttingen, Germany.
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Piskunen P, Huusela M, Linko V. Nanoswimmers Based on Capped Janus Nanospheres. MATERIALS 2022; 15:ma15134442. [PMID: 35806570 PMCID: PMC9267829 DOI: 10.3390/ma15134442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Revised: 06/17/2022] [Accepted: 06/22/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Nanoswimmers are synthetic nanoscale objects that convert the available surrounding free energy to a directed motion. For example, bacteria with various flagella types serve as textbook examples of the minuscule swimmers found in nature. Along these lines, a plethora of artificial hybrid and non-hybrid nanoswimmers have been introduced, and they could find many uses, e.g., for targeted drug delivery systems (TDDSs) and controlled drug treatments. Here, we discuss a certain class of nanoparticles, i.e., functional, capped Janus nanospheres that can be employed as nanoswimmers, their subclasses and properties, as well as their various implementations. A brief outlook is given on different fabrication and synthesis methods, as well as on the diverse compositions used to prepare nanoswimmers, with a focus on the particle types and materials suitable for biomedical applications. Several recent studies have shown remarkable success in achieving temporally and spatially controlled drug delivery in vitro using Janus-particle-based TDDSs. We believe that this review will serve as a concise introductory synopsis for the interested readers. Therefore, we hope that it will deepen the general understanding of nanoparticle behavior in biological matrices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Petteri Piskunen
- Biohybrid Materials, Department of Bioproducts and Biosystems, Aalto University, P.O. Box 16100, 00076 Aalto, Finland; (P.P.); (M.H.)
| | - Martina Huusela
- Biohybrid Materials, Department of Bioproducts and Biosystems, Aalto University, P.O. Box 16100, 00076 Aalto, Finland; (P.P.); (M.H.)
| | - Veikko Linko
- Biohybrid Materials, Department of Bioproducts and Biosystems, Aalto University, P.O. Box 16100, 00076 Aalto, Finland; (P.P.); (M.H.)
- LIBER Center of Excellence, Aalto University, P.O. Box 16100, 00076 Aalto, Finland
- Correspondence:
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30
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Filippi M, Buchner T, Yasa O, Weirich S, Katzschmann RK. Microfluidic Tissue Engineering and Bio-Actuation. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2022; 34:e2108427. [PMID: 35194852 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202108427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2021] [Revised: 02/07/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Bio-hybrid technologies aim to replicate the unique capabilities of biological systems that could surpass advanced artificial technologies. Soft bio-hybrid robots consist of synthetic and living materials and have the potential to self-assemble, regenerate, work autonomously, and interact safely with other species and the environment. Cells require a sufficient exchange of nutrients and gases, which is guaranteed by convection and diffusive transport through liquid media. The functional development and long-term survival of biological tissues in vitro can be improved by dynamic flow culture, but only microfluidic flow control can develop tissue with fine structuring and regulation at the microscale. Full control of tissue growth at the microscale will eventually lead to functional macroscale constructs, which are needed as the biological component of soft bio-hybrid technologies. This review summarizes recent progress in microfluidic techniques to engineer biological tissues, focusing on the use of muscle cells for robotic bio-actuation. Moreover, the instances in which bio-actuation technologies greatly benefit from fusion with microfluidics are highlighted, which include: the microfabrication of matrices, biomimicry of cell microenvironments, tissue maturation, perfusion, and vascularization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miriam Filippi
- Soft Robotics Laboratory, ETH Zurich, Tannenstrasse 3, Zurich, 8092, Switzerland
| | - Thomas Buchner
- Soft Robotics Laboratory, ETH Zurich, Tannenstrasse 3, Zurich, 8092, Switzerland
| | - Oncay Yasa
- Soft Robotics Laboratory, ETH Zurich, Tannenstrasse 3, Zurich, 8092, Switzerland
| | - Stefan Weirich
- Soft Robotics Laboratory, ETH Zurich, Tannenstrasse 3, Zurich, 8092, Switzerland
| | - Robert K Katzschmann
- Soft Robotics Laboratory, ETH Zurich, Tannenstrasse 3, Zurich, 8092, Switzerland
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31
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Clopés J, Gompper G, Winkler RG. Alignment and propulsion of squirmer pusher-puller dumbbells. J Chem Phys 2022; 156:194901. [DOI: 10.1063/5.0091067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The properties of microswimmer dumbbells composed of pusher-puller pairs are investigated by mesoscale hydrodynamic simulations employing the multiparticle collision dynamics approach for the fluid. An individual microswimmer is represented by a squirmer, and various active-stress combinations in a dumbbell are considered. The squirmers are connected by a bond, which does not impose any geometrical restriction on the individual rotational motion. Our simulations reveal a strong influence of the squirmers' flow fields on the orientation of their propulsion directions, their fluctuations, and the swimming behavior of a dumbbell. The properties of pusher-puller pairs with equal magnitude of the active stresses dependent only weakly on the stress magnitude. This is similar to dumbbells of microswimmers without hydrodynamic interactions. However, for non-equal stress magnitudes, the active stress implies strong orientational correlations of the swimmers' propulsion directions with respect to each other as well as the bond vector. The orientational coupling is most pronounced for pairs with large differences of the active stress magnitude. The alignment of the squirmer propulsion directions with respect to each other is preferentially orthogonal in dumbbells with a strong pusher and weak puller, and antiparallel in the opposite case when the puller dominates. These strong correlations affect the active motion of dumbbells which is faster for strong pushers and slower for strong pullers.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Gerhard Gompper
- Institute of Biological Information Processing, Forschungszentrum Jülich GmbH, Germany
| | - Roland G. Winkler
- Institute for Advanced Simulation, Forschungszentrum Jülich, Germany
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32
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Bacteria as Nanoparticle Carriers for Immunotherapy in Oncology. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:pharmaceutics14040784. [PMID: 35456618 PMCID: PMC9027800 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14040784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2022] [Revised: 03/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/31/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The use of nanocarriers to deliver antitumor agents to solid tumors must overcome biological barriers in order to provide effective clinical responses. Once within the tumor, a nanocarrier should navigate into a dense extracellular matrix, overcoming intratumoral pressure to push it out of the diseased tissue. In recent years, a paradigm change has been proposed, shifting the target of nanomedicine from the tumoral cells to the immune system, in order to exploit the natural ability of this system to capture and interact with nanometric moieties. Thus, nanocarriers have been engineered to interact with immune cells, with the aim of triggering specific antitumor responses. The use of bacteria as nanoparticle carriers has been proposed as a valuable strategy to improve both the accumulation of nanomedicines in solid tumors and their penetration into the malignancy. These microorganisms are capable of propelling themselves into biological environments and navigating through the tumor, guided by the presence of specific molecules secreted by the diseased tissue. These capacities, in addition to the natural immunogenic nature of bacteria, can be exploited to design more effective immunotherapies that yield potent synergistic effects to induce efficient and selective immune responses that lead to the complete eradication of the tumor.
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Xiao S, Shi H, Zhang Y, Fan Y, Wang L, Xiang L, Liu Y, Zhao L, Fu S. Bacteria-driven hypoxia targeting delivery of chemotherapeutic drug proving outcome of breast cancer. J Nanobiotechnology 2022; 20:178. [PMID: 35366890 PMCID: PMC8976953 DOI: 10.1186/s12951-022-01373-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2022] [Accepted: 03/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Local hypoxia is a common feature of many solid tumors and may lead to unsatisfactory chemotherapy outcomes. Anaerobic bacteria that have an affinity to hypoxic areas can be used to achieve targeted drug delivery in tumor tissues. In this study, we developed a biocompatible bacteria/nanoparticles biohybrid (Bif@DOX-NPs) platform that employs the anaerobic Bifidobacterium infantis (Bif) to deliver adriamycin-loaded bovine serum albumin nanoparticles (DOX-NPs) into breast tumors. The Bif@DOX-NPs retained the targeting ability of B. infantis to hypoxic regions, as well as the cytotoxicity of DOX. The biohybrids were able to actively colonize the hypoxic tumors and significantly increased drug accumulation at the tumor site. The DOX concentration in the tumor masses colonized by Bif@DOX-NPs was 4 times higher than that in the free DOX-treated tumors, which significantly prolonged the median survival of the tumor-bearing mice to 69 days and reduced the toxic side-effects of DOX. Thus, anaerobic bacteria-based biohybrids are a highly promising tool for the targeted treatment of solid tumors with inaccessible hypoxic regions.
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Design and Optimization of a New Alternating Electromagnetic-Field-Generation System for an Inverted Microscope. MICROMACHINES 2022; 13:mi13040542. [PMID: 35457847 PMCID: PMC9027640 DOI: 10.3390/mi13040542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2022] [Revised: 03/27/2022] [Accepted: 03/29/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
This paper presents the design and optimization of a new alternating electromagnetic-field-generation system, which is dedicated to actuating untethered magnetic microrobots under an inverted microscope. Its uniqueness is that the system parameters are optimally designed by considering both electric and geometry constraints for the target-driving application. The dominant parameters of the system are first determined by establishing analytical models. According to the requirements of targeted application, the optimization problem with certain constraints is formulated, which is solved via the multiobjective genetic algorithm method. A prototype system with the optimal parameters is developed for experimental testing. Experimental studies are carried out to characterize actual performance of the developed actuation system. For demonstration, a magnetic microball has been actuated for navigation by surface rolling in a petri dish filled with pure water. Results indicate that the reported electromagnetic-field-generation system meets the actuation requirements for potential applications.
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35
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Xiao Y, Zhang J, Fang B, Zhao X, Hao N. Acoustics-Actuated Microrobots. MICROMACHINES 2022; 13:481. [PMID: 35334771 PMCID: PMC8949854 DOI: 10.3390/mi13030481] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2022] [Revised: 03/13/2022] [Accepted: 03/17/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Microrobots can operate in tiny areas that traditional bulk robots cannot reach. The combination of acoustic actuation with microrobots extensively expands the application areas of microrobots due to their desirable miniaturization, flexibility, and biocompatibility features. Herein, an overview of the research and development of acoustics-actuated microrobots is provided. We first introduce the currently established manufacturing methods (3D printing and photolithography). Then, according to their different working principles, we divide acoustics-actuated microrobots into three categories including bubble propulsion, sharp-edge propulsion, and in-situ microrotor. Next, we summarize their established applications from targeted drug delivery to microfluidics operation to microsurgery. Finally, we illustrate current challenges and future perspectives to guide research in this field. This work not only gives a comprehensive overview of the latest technology of acoustics-actuated microrobots, but also provides an in-depth understanding of acoustic actuation for inspiring the next generation of advanced robotic devices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaxuan Xiao
- Key Laboratory of Education Ministry for Modern Design and Rotor-Bearing System, Xi’an Jiaotong University, 28 Xianning West Road, Xi’an 710049, China; (Y.X.); (B.F.)
- Laboratory of Microscale Green Chemical Process Intensification, School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Xi’an Jiaotong University, 28 Xianning West Road, Xi’an 710049, China;
| | - Jinhua Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Education Ministry for Modern Design and Rotor-Bearing System, Xi’an Jiaotong University, 28 Xianning West Road, Xi’an 710049, China; (Y.X.); (B.F.)
| | - Bin Fang
- Key Laboratory of Education Ministry for Modern Design and Rotor-Bearing System, Xi’an Jiaotong University, 28 Xianning West Road, Xi’an 710049, China; (Y.X.); (B.F.)
| | - Xiong Zhao
- Laboratory of Microscale Green Chemical Process Intensification, School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Xi’an Jiaotong University, 28 Xianning West Road, Xi’an 710049, China;
| | - Nanjing Hao
- Laboratory of Microscale Green Chemical Process Intensification, School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Xi’an Jiaotong University, 28 Xianning West Road, Xi’an 710049, China;
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36
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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: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [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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37
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Xu Y, Bian Q, Wang R, Gao J. Micro/nanorobots for precise drug delivery via targeted transport and triggered release: a review. Int J Pharm 2022; 616:121551. [PMID: 35131352 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2022.121551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2021] [Revised: 01/22/2022] [Accepted: 02/01/2022] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Micro/nanorobots that can effectively convert diverse energy sources into movement can revolutionize the field of pharmaceutical, particularly targeted drug delivery. By targeted transport and triggered release, drug can be delivered to targeted tissues or body sites. Targeted transport is discussed with different actuation energy sources including self-propelled (H2O2 and enzymes), external field-propelled (light, electrical, acoustics and magnetic field) and motile microorganism-propelled (bacterium, sperm, and contractile and immune cells) types. Triggered release systems including physiological environment, external fields and other mechanisms categories are also discussed here for the first time. With different transport and triggered release systems, micro/nanorobots achieved the goal of precise delivery of therapeutics. This review may provide a different perspective or referable guidance for the future development of more flexible targeted delivery systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yihua Xu
- Institute of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Qiong Bian
- Institute of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Ruxuan Wang
- Institute of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Jianqing Gao
- Institute of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China.
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38
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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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Islam M, Lantada AD, Mager D, Korvink JG. Carbon-Based Materials for Articular Tissue Engineering: From Innovative Scaffolding Materials toward Engineered Living Carbon. Adv Healthc Mater 2022; 11:e2101834. [PMID: 34601815 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202101834] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Carbon materials constitute a growing family of high-performance materials immersed in ongoing scientific technological revolutions. Their biochemical properties are interesting for a wide set of healthcare applications and their biomechanical performance, which can be modulated to mimic most human tissues, make them remarkable candidates for tissue repair and regeneration, especially for articular problems and osteochondral defects involving diverse tissues with very different morphologies and properties. However, more systematic approaches to the engineering design of carbon-based cell niches and scaffolds are needed and relevant challenges should still be overcome through extensive and collaborative research. In consequence, this study presents a comprehensive description of carbon materials and an explanation of their benefits for regenerative medicine, focusing on their rising impact in the area of osteochondral and articular repair and regeneration. Once the state-of-the-art is illustrated, innovative design and fabrication strategies for artificially recreating the cellular microenvironment within complex articular structures are discussed. Together with these modern design and fabrication approaches, current challenges, and research trends for reaching patients and creating social and economic impacts are examined. In a closing perspective, the engineering of living carbon materials is also presented for the first time and the related fundamental breakthroughs ahead are clarified.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monsur Islam
- Karlsruhe Institute of Technology Institute of Microstructure Technology Hermann‐von‐Helmholtz‐Platz 1 Eggenstein‐Leopoldshafen 76344 Germany
| | - Andrés Díaz Lantada
- Department of Mechanical Engineering Universidad Politécnica de Madrid José Gutiérrez Abascal 2 Madrid 28006 Spain
| | - Dario Mager
- Karlsruhe Institute of Technology Institute of Microstructure Technology Hermann‐von‐Helmholtz‐Platz 1 Eggenstein‐Leopoldshafen 76344 Germany
| | - Jan G. Korvink
- Karlsruhe Institute of Technology Institute of Microstructure Technology Hermann‐von‐Helmholtz‐Platz 1 Eggenstein‐Leopoldshafen 76344 Germany
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Abstract
In contrast to conventional hard actuators, soft actuators offer many vivid advantages, such as improved flexibility, adaptability, and reconfigurability, which are intrinsic to living systems. These properties make them particularly promising for different applications, including soft electronics, surgery, drug delivery, artificial organs, or prosthesis. The additional degree of freedom for soft actuatoric devices can be provided through the use of intelligent materials, which are able to change their structure, macroscopic properties, and shape under the influence of external signals. The use of such intelligent materials allows a substantial reduction of a device's size, which enables a number of applications that cannot be realized by externally powered systems. This review aims to provide an overview of the properties of intelligent synthetic and living/natural materials used for the fabrication of soft robotic devices. We discuss basic physical/chemical properties of the main kinds of materials (elastomers, gels, shape memory polymers and gels, liquid crystalline elastomers, semicrystalline ferroelectric polymers, gels and hydrogels, other swelling polymers, materials with volume change during melting/crystallization, materials with tunable mechanical properties, and living and naturally derived materials), how they are related to actuation and soft robotic application, and effects of micro/macro structures on shape transformation, fabrication methods, and we highlight selected applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Indra Apsite
- Faculty of Engineering Science, Department of Biofabrication, University of Bayreuth, Ludwig Thoma Str. 36A, 95447 Bayreuth, Germany
| | - Sahar Salehi
- Department of Biomaterials, Center of Energy Technology und Materials Science, University of Bayreuth, Prof.-Rüdiger-Bormann-Straße 1, 95447 Bayreuth, Germany
| | - Leonid Ionov
- Faculty of Engineering Science, Department of Biofabrication, University of Bayreuth, Ludwig Thoma Str. 36A, 95447 Bayreuth, Germany.,Bavarian Polymer Institute, University of Bayreuth, Universitätsstr. 30, 95440 Bayreuth, Germany
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41
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Llacer-Wintle J, Rivas-Dapena A, Chen XZ, Pellicer E, Nelson BJ, Puigmartí-Luis J, Pané S. Biodegradable Small-Scale Swimmers for Biomedical Applications. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2021; 33:e2102049. [PMID: 34480388 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202102049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2021] [Revised: 06/14/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Most forms of biomatter are ephemeral, which means they transform or deteriorate after a certain time. From this perspective, implantable healthcare devices designed for temporary treatments should exhibit the ability to degrade and either blend in with healthy tissues, or be cleared from the body with minimal disruption after accomplishing their designated tasks. This topic is currently being investigated in the field of biomedical micro- and nanoswimmers. These tiny devices have the ability to move through fluids by converting physical or chemical energy into motion. Several architectures of these devices have been designed to mimic the motion strategies of nature's motile microorganisms and cells. Due to their motion abilities, these devices have been proposed as minimally invasive tools for precision healthcare applications. Hence, a natural progression in this field is to produce motile structures that can adopt, or even surpass, similar transient features as biological systems. The fate of small-scale swimmers after accomplishing their therapeutic mission is critical for the successful translation of small-scale swimmers' technologies into clinical applications. In this review, recent research efforts are summarized on the topic of biodegradable micro- and nanoswimmers for biomedical applications, with a focus on targeted therapeutic delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joaquin Llacer-Wintle
- Multi-Scale Robotics Lab (MSRL), Institute of Robotics and Intelligent Systems (IRIS), ETH Zurich, Zurich, CH-8092, Switzerland
| | - Antón Rivas-Dapena
- Multi-Scale Robotics Lab (MSRL), Institute of Robotics and Intelligent Systems (IRIS), ETH Zurich, Zurich, CH-8092, Switzerland
| | - Xiang-Zhong Chen
- Multi-Scale Robotics Lab (MSRL), Institute of Robotics and Intelligent Systems (IRIS), ETH Zurich, Zurich, CH-8092, Switzerland
| | - Eva Pellicer
- Departament de Física, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra (Cerdanyola del Vallès), Barcelona, 08193, Spain
| | - Bradley J Nelson
- Multi-Scale Robotics Lab (MSRL), Institute of Robotics and Intelligent Systems (IRIS), ETH Zurich, Zurich, CH-8092, Switzerland
| | - Josep Puigmartí-Luis
- Departament de Ciència dels Materials i Química Física, Institut de Química Teòrica I Computacional, Barcelona, 08028, Spain
- ICREA, Pg. Lluís Companys 23, Barcelona, 0 8010, Spain
| | - Salvador Pané
- Multi-Scale Robotics Lab (MSRL), Institute of Robotics and Intelligent Systems (IRIS), ETH Zurich, Zurich, CH-8092, Switzerland
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Chaturvedi R, Kang Y, Eom Y, Torati SR, Kim C. Functionalization of Biotinylated Polyethylene Glycol on Live Magnetotactic Bacteria Carriers for Improved Stealth Properties. BIOLOGY 2021; 10:biology10100993. [PMID: 34681092 PMCID: PMC8533374 DOI: 10.3390/biology10100993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2021] [Revised: 09/23/2021] [Accepted: 09/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Simple Summary The development of new approaches in the field of drug delivery systems is primarily based on increasing the accuracy and precision of the targeted site and improving the stability of the drug by preventing the phagocytosis process inside the body. Among many other methods used to fulfill the above-mentioned requirements, the use of magnetotactic bacteria (MTB) is proven to be a promising solution, as it is self-propelling in nature, and can also be controlled by an external magnetic field. For the present work, we developed an MTB/PEG–biotin complex by exploiting the process of covalent bond formation between bacteria and a biotin–PEG–NHS polymer. In addition to this, attachment efficacy and stability were also determined. In biological applications, cytotoxicity assay of THP-1 cells was performed, showing the MTB/PEG–biotin complex to be less harmful to the cells; meanwhile, to explore the stealth properties of the complex, we performed a cell association assay. With these results, we provide a significant contribution to the field of potential drug delivery system development. Abstract The early removal of drug delivery agents before reaching the affected target remains an area of interest to researchers. Several magnetotactic bacteria (MTB) have been used as self-propelled drug delivery agents, and they can also be controlled by an external magnetic field. By attaching the PEG–biotin polymer, the bacteria are turned into a stealth material that can escape from the phagocytosis process and reach the area of interest with the drug load. In the study, we developed a potential drug carrier by attaching the PEG–biotin to the MTB-through-NHS crosslinker to form a MTB/PEG–biotin complex. The attachment stability, efficacy, and bacterial viability upon attachment of the PEG–biotin polymer were investigated. Biological applications were carried out using a cytotoxicity assay of THP-1 cells, and the results indicate that the MTB/PEG–biotin complex is less harmful to cell viability compared to MTB alone. Along with cytotoxicity, an assay for cell association was also evaluated to assess the complex as a potential stealth material. The development of these complexes focuses on an easy, time-saving, and stable technique of polymer attachment with the bacteria, without damaging the cell’s surface, so as to make it a strong and reliable delivery agent.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - CheolGi Kim
- Correspondence: (S.R.T.); (C.K.); Tel.: +82-537856516 (C.K.); Fax: +82-537856509 (C.K.)
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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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Abstract
The natural world has provided a host of materials and inspiration for the field of nanomedicine. By taking design cues from naturally occurring systems, the nanoengineering of advanced biomimetic platforms has significantly accelerated over the past decade. In particular, the biomimicry of bacteria, with their motility, taxis, immunomodulation, and overall dynamic host interactions, has elicited substantial interest and opened up exciting avenues of research. More recently, advancements in genetic engineering have given way to more complex and elegant systems with tunable control characteristics. Furthermore, bacterial derivatives such as membrane ghosts, extracellular vesicles, spores, and toxins have proven advantageous for use in nanotherapeutic applications, as they preserve many of the features from the original bacteria while also offering distinct advantages. Overall, bacteria-inspired nanomedicines can be employed in a range of therapeutic settings, from payload delivery to immunotherapy, and have proven successful in combatting both cancer and infectious disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maya Holay
- Department of NanoEngineering, Chemical Engineering Program, and Moores Cancer Center, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Zhongyuan Guo
- Department of NanoEngineering, Chemical Engineering Program, and Moores Cancer Center, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Jessica Pihl
- Department of NanoEngineering, Chemical Engineering Program, and Moores Cancer Center, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Jiyoung Heo
- Department of NanoEngineering, Chemical Engineering Program, and Moores Cancer Center, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Joon Ho Park
- Department of NanoEngineering, Chemical Engineering Program, and Moores Cancer Center, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Ronnie H. Fang
- Department of NanoEngineering, Chemical Engineering Program, and Moores Cancer Center, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Liangfang Zhang
- Department of NanoEngineering, Chemical Engineering Program, and Moores Cancer Center, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
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Abstract
Abstract
In the past few decades, robotics research has witnessed an increasingly high interest in miniaturized, intelligent, and integrated robots. The imperative component of a robot is the actuator that determines its performance. Although traditional rigid drives such as motors and gas engines have shown great prevalence in most macroscale circumstances, the reduction of these drives to the millimeter or even lower scale results in a significant increase in manufacturing difficulty accompanied by a remarkable performance decline. Biohybrid robots driven by living cells can be a potential solution to overcome these drawbacks by benefiting from the intrinsic microscale self-assembly of living tissues and high energy efficiency, which, among other unprecedented properties, also feature flexibility, self-repair, and even multiple degrees of freedom. This paper systematically reviews the development of biohybrid robots. First, the development of biological flexible drivers is introduced while emphasizing on their advantages over traditional drivers. Second, up-to-date works regarding biohybrid robots are reviewed in detail from three aspects: biological driving sources, actuator materials, and structures with associated control methodologies. Finally, the potential future applications and major challenges of biohybrid robots are explored.
Graphic abstract
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46
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Targeted polymer-based antibiotic delivery system: A promising option for treating bacterial infections via macromolecular approaches. Prog Polym Sci 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.progpolymsci.2021.101389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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Ng CSX, Tan MWM, Xu C, Yang Z, Lee PS, Lum GZ. Locomotion of Miniature Soft Robots. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2021; 33:e2003558. [PMID: 33338296 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202003558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2020] [Revised: 08/16/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Miniature soft robots are mobile devices, which are made of smart materials that can be actuated by external stimuli to realize their desired functionalities. Here, the key advancements and challenges of the locomotion producible by miniature soft robots in micro- to centimeter length scales are highlighted. It is highly desirable to endow these small machines with dexterous locomotive gaits as it enables them to easily access highly confined and enclosed spaces via a noninvasive manner. If miniature soft robots are able to capitalize this unique ability, they will have the potential to transform a vast range of applications, including but not limited to, minimally invasive medical treatments, lab-on-chip applications, and search-and-rescue missions. The gaits of miniature soft robots are categorized into terrestrial, aquatic, and aerial locomotion. Except for the centimeter-scale robots that can perform aerial locomotion, the discussions in this report are centered around soft robots that are in the micro- to millimeter length scales. Under each category of locomotion, prospective methods and strategies that can improve their gait performances are also discussed. This report provides critical analyses and discussions that can inspire future strategies to make miniature soft robots significantly more agile.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chelsea Shan Xian Ng
- School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 50 Nanyang Avenue, Singapore, 639798, Singapore
| | - Matthew Wei Ming Tan
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 50 Nanyang Avenue, Singapore, 639798, Singapore
| | - Changyu Xu
- School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 50 Nanyang Avenue, Singapore, 639798, Singapore
| | - Zilin Yang
- School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 50 Nanyang Avenue, Singapore, 639798, Singapore
| | - Pooi See Lee
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 50 Nanyang Avenue, Singapore, 639798, Singapore
| | - Guo Zhan Lum
- School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 50 Nanyang Avenue, Singapore, 639798, Singapore
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Ilami M, Bagheri H, Ahmed R, Skowronek EO, Marvi H. Materials, Actuators, and Sensors for Soft Bioinspired Robots. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2021; 33:e2003139. [PMID: 33346386 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202003139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 101] [Impact Index Per Article: 33.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2020] [Revised: 08/15/2020] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
Biological systems can perform complex tasks with high compliance levels. This makes them a great source of inspiration for soft robotics. Indeed, the union of these fields has brought about bioinspired soft robotics, with hundreds of publications on novel research each year. This review aims to survey fundamental advances in bioinspired soft actuators and sensors with a focus on the progress between 2017 and 2020, providing a primer for the materials used in their design.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahdi Ilami
- School for Engineering of Matter, Transport & Energy, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, 85287, USA
| | - Hosain Bagheri
- School for Engineering of Matter, Transport & Energy, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, 85287, USA
| | - Reza Ahmed
- School for Engineering of Matter, Transport & Energy, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, 85287, USA
| | - E Olga Skowronek
- School for Engineering of Matter, Transport & Energy, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, 85287, USA
| | - Hamid Marvi
- School for Engineering of Matter, Transport & Energy, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, 85287, USA
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Mestre R, Patiño T, Sánchez S. Biohybrid robotics: From the nanoscale to the macroscale. WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS-NANOMEDICINE AND NANOBIOTECHNOLOGY 2021; 13:e1703. [PMID: 33533200 DOI: 10.1002/wnan.1703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2020] [Revised: 12/17/2020] [Accepted: 01/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Biohybrid robotics is a field in which biological entities are combined with artificial materials in order to obtain improved performance or features that are difficult to mimic with hand-made materials. Three main level of integration can be envisioned depending on the complexity of the biological entity, ranging from the nanoscale to the macroscale. At the nanoscale, enzymes that catalyze biocompatible reactions can be used as power sources for self-propelled nanoparticles of different geometries and compositions, obtaining rather interesting active matter systems that acquire importance in the biomedical field as drug delivery systems. At the microscale, single enzymes are substituted by complete cells, such as bacteria or spermatozoa, whose self-propelling capabilities can be used to transport cargo and can also be used as drug delivery systems, for in vitro fertilization practices or for biofilm removal. Finally, at the macroscale, the combinations of millions of cells forming tissues can be used to power biorobotic devices or bioactuators by using muscle cells. Both cardiac and skeletal muscle tissue have been part of remarkable examples of untethered biorobots that can crawl or swim due to the contractions of the tissue and current developments aim at the integration of several types of tissue to obtain more realistic biomimetic devices, which could lead to the next generation of hybrid robotics. Tethered bioactuators, however, result in excellent candidates for tissue models for drug screening purposes or the study of muscle myopathies due to their three-dimensional architecture. This article is categorized under: Therapeutic Approaches and Drug Discovery > Emerging Technologies Nanotechnology Approaches to Biology > Nanoscale Systems in Biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafael Mestre
- Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Tania Patiño
- Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), Barcelona, Spain.,Chemistry Department, University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Samuel Sánchez
- Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), Barcelona, Spain.,Institució Catalana de Recerca i Estudis Avançats (ICREA), Barcelona, Spain.,School of Materials Science and Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology Shenzhen, Shenzhen, China
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50
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Alapan Y, Yasa O, Schauer O, Giltinan J, Tabak AF, Sourjik V, Sitti M. Soft erythrocyte-based bacterial microswimmers for cargo delivery. Sci Robot 2021; 3:3/17/eaar4423. [PMID: 33141741 DOI: 10.1126/scirobotics.aar4423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 199] [Impact Index Per Article: 66.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2017] [Accepted: 03/30/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Bacteria-propelled biohybrid microswimmers have recently shown to be able to actively transport and deliver cargos encapsulated into their synthetic constructs to specific regions locally. However, usage of synthetic materials as cargo carriers can result in inferior performance in load-carrying efficiency, biocompatibility, and biodegradability, impeding clinical translation of biohybrid microswimmers. Here, we report construction and external guidance of bacteria-driven microswimmers using red blood cells (RBCs; erythrocytes) as autologous cargo carriers for active and guided drug delivery. Multifunctional biohybrid microswimmers were fabricated by attachment of RBCs [loaded with anticancer doxorubicin drug molecules and superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs)] to bioengineered motile bacteria, Escherichia coli MG1655, via biotin-avidin-biotin binding complex. Autonomous and on-board propulsion of biohybrid microswimmers was provided by bacteria, and their external magnetic guidance was enabled by SPIONs loaded into the RBCs. Furthermore, bacteria-driven RBC microswimmers displayed preserved deformability and attachment stability even after squeezing in microchannels smaller than their sizes, as in the case of bare RBCs. In addition, an on-demand light-activated hyperthermia termination switch was engineered for RBC microswimmers to control bacteria population after operations. RBCs, as biological and autologous cargo carriers in the biohybrid microswimmers, offer notable advantages in stability, deformability, biocompatibility, and biodegradability over synthetic cargo-carrier materials. The biohybrid microswimmer design presented here transforms RBCs from passive cargo carriers into active and guidable cargo carriers toward targeted drug and other cargo delivery applications in medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunus Alapan
- Physical Intelligence Department, Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems, 70569 Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Oncay Yasa
- Physical Intelligence Department, Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems, 70569 Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Oliver Schauer
- Systems and Synthetic Microbiology Department, Max Planck Institute for Terrestrial Microbiology, 35043 Marburg, Germany
| | - Joshua Giltinan
- Physical Intelligence Department, Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems, 70569 Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Ahmet F Tabak
- Physical Intelligence Department, Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems, 70569 Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Victor Sourjik
- Systems and Synthetic Microbiology Department, Max Planck Institute for Terrestrial Microbiology, 35043 Marburg, Germany
| | - Metin Sitti
- Physical Intelligence Department, Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems, 70569 Stuttgart, Germany.
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