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Gao Y, Ou L, Liu K, Guo Y, Li W, Xiong Z, Wu C, Wang J, Tang J, Li D. Template-Guided Silicon Micromotor Assembly for Enhanced Cell Manipulation. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2024; 63:e202405895. [PMID: 38660927 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202405895] [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: 03/27/2024] [Revised: 04/23/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
Light-driven micro/nanorobots (LMNRs) are tiny, untethered machines with great potential in fields like precision medicine, nano manufacturing, and various other domains. However, their practicality hinges on developing light-manipulation strategies that combine versatile functionalities, flexible design options, and precise controllability. Our study introduces an innovative approach to construct micro/nanorobots (MNRs) by utilizing micro/nanomotors as fundamental building blocks. Inspired by silicon Metal-Insulator-Semiconductor (MIS) solar cell principles, we design a new type of optomagnetic hybrid micromotors (OHMs). These OHMs have been skillfully optimized with integrated magnetic constituent, resulting in efficient light propulsion, precise magnetic navigation, and the potential for controlled assembly. One of the key features of the OHMs is their ability to exhibit diverse motion modes influenced by fracture surfaces and interactions with the environment, streamlining cargo conveyance along "micro expressway"-the predesigned microchannels. Further enhancing their versatility, a template-guided assembly strategy facilitates the assembly of these micromotors into functional microrobots, encompassing various configurations such as "V-shaped", "N-shaped", and 3D structured microrobots. The heightened capabilities of these microrobots, underscore the innovative potential inherent in hybrid micromotor design and assembly, which provides a foundational platform for the realization of multi-component microrobots. Our work moves a step toward forthcoming microrobotic entities boasting advanced functionalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuxin Gao
- College of Chemistry and Materials Science, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Functional Supramolecular Coordination Materials and Applications, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510632, P. R. China
| | - Leyan Ou
- College of Chemistry and Materials Science, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Functional Supramolecular Coordination Materials and Applications, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510632, P. R. China
| | - Kunfeng Liu
- College of Chemistry and Materials Science, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Functional Supramolecular Coordination Materials and Applications, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510632, P. R. China
| | - Yuan Guo
- The Third People's Hospital of Ganzhou, Ganzhou City, Jiangxi Province, 341000, P. R. China
| | - Wanyuan Li
- College of Chemistry and Materials Science, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Functional Supramolecular Coordination Materials and Applications, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510632, P. R. China
| | - Ze Xiong
- Wireless and Smart Bioelectronics Lab, School of Biomedical Engineering, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, 201210, P. R. China
| | - Changjin Wu
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong, P. R. China
| | - Jizhuang Wang
- College of Chemistry and Materials Science, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Functional Supramolecular Coordination Materials and Applications, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510632, P. R. China
| | - Jinyao Tang
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong, P. R. China
| | - Dan Li
- College of Chemistry and Materials Science, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Functional Supramolecular Coordination Materials and Applications, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510632, P. R. China
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2
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Li Z, Duan Y, Zhang F, Luan H, Shen WT, Yu Y, Xian N, Guo Z, Zhang E, Yin L, Fang RH, Gao W, Zhang L, Wang J. Biohybrid microrobots regulate colonic cytokines and the epithelium barrier in inflammatory bowel disease. Sci Robot 2024; 9:eadl2007. [PMID: 38924422 DOI: 10.1126/scirobotics.adl2007] [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: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
Cytokines have been identified as key contributors to the development of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), yet conventional treatments often prove inadequate and carry substantial side effects. Here, we present an innovative biohybrid robotic system, termed "algae-MΦNP-robot," for addressing IBD by actively neutralizing colonic cytokine levels. Our approach combines moving green microalgae with macrophage membrane-coated nanoparticles (MΦNPs) to efficiently capture proinflammatory cytokines "on the fly." The dynamic algae-MΦNP-robots outperformed static counterparts by enhancing cytokine removal through continuous movement, better distribution, and extended retention in the colon. This system is encapsulated in an oral capsule, which shields it from gastric acidity and ensures functionality upon reaching the targeted disease site. The resulting algae-MΦNP-robot capsule effectively regulated cytokine levels, facilitating the healing of damaged epithelial barriers. It showed markedly improved prevention and treatment efficacy in a mouse model of IBD and demonstrated an excellent biosafety profile. Overall, our biohybrid algae-MΦNP-robot system offers a promising and efficient solution for IBD, addressing cytokine-related inflammation effectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhengxing Li
- Department of Nanoengineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Yaou Duan
- Department of Nanoengineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Fangyu Zhang
- Department of Nanoengineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Hao Luan
- Department of Nanoengineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Wei-Ting Shen
- Department of Nanoengineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Yiyan Yu
- Department of Nanoengineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Nianfei Xian
- Department of Nanoengineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Zhongyuan Guo
- Department of Nanoengineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Edward Zhang
- Department of Nanoengineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Lu Yin
- Department of Nanoengineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Ronnie H Fang
- Department of Nanoengineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Weiwei Gao
- Department of Nanoengineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Liangfang Zhang
- Department of Nanoengineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Joseph Wang
- Department of Nanoengineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
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3
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Li W, Yin Y, Zhou H, Fan Y, Yang Y, Gao Q, Li P, Gao G, Li J. Recent Advances in Electrospinning Techniques for Precise Medicine. CYBORG AND BIONIC SYSTEMS 2024; 5:0101. [PMID: 38778878 PMCID: PMC11109596 DOI: 10.34133/cbsystems.0101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 02/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
In the realm of precise medicine, the advancement of manufacturing technologies is vital for enhancing the capabilities of medical devices such as nano/microrobots, wearable/implantable biosensors, and organ-on-chip systems, which serve to accurately acquire and analyze patients' physiopathological information and to perform patient-specific therapy. Electrospinning holds great promise in engineering materials and components for advanced medical devices, due to the demonstrated ability to advance the development of nanomaterial science. Nevertheless, challenges such as limited composition variety, uncontrollable fiber orientation, difficulties in incorporating fragile molecules and cells, and low production effectiveness hindered its further application. To overcome these challenges, advanced electrospinning techniques have been explored to manufacture functional composites, orchestrated structures, living constructs, and scale-up fabrication. This review delves into the recent advances of electrospinning techniques and underscores their potential in revolutionizing the field of precise medicine, upon introducing the fundamental information of conventional electrospinning techniques, as well as discussing the current challenges and future perspectives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Li
- School of Medical Technology,
Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Yue Yin
- School of Medical Technology,
Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China
- Zhengzhou Academy of Intelligent Technology,
Beijing Institute of Technology, Zhengzhou 450040, China
| | - Huaijuan Zhou
- Zhengzhou Academy of Intelligent Technology,
Beijing Institute of Technology, Zhengzhou 450040, China
- Advanced Research Institute of Multidisciplinary Sciences,
Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Yingwei Fan
- School of Medical Technology,
Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Yingting Yang
- Advanced Research Institute of Multidisciplinary Sciences,
Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Qiqi Gao
- School of Medical Technology,
Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Pei Li
- Center for Advanced Biotechnology and Medicine,
Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Ge Gao
- School of Medical Technology,
Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China
- Zhengzhou Academy of Intelligent Technology,
Beijing Institute of Technology, Zhengzhou 450040, China
| | - Jinhua Li
- School of Medical Technology,
Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China
- Zhengzhou Academy of Intelligent Technology,
Beijing Institute of Technology, Zhengzhou 450040, China
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4
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Zhang D, Chen Y, Hao M, Xia Y. Putting Hybrid Nanomaterials to Work for Biomedical Applications. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2024; 63:e202319567. [PMID: 38429227 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202319567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2023] [Revised: 02/29/2024] [Accepted: 03/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/03/2024]
Abstract
Hybrid nanomaterials have found use in many biomedical applications. This article provides a comprehensive review of the principles, techniques, and recent advancements in the design and fabrication of hybrid nanomaterials for biomedicine. We begin with an introduction to the general concept of material hybridization, followed by a discussion of how this approach leads to materials with additional functionality and enhanced performance. We then highlight hybrid nanomaterials in the forms of nanostructures, nanocomposites, metal-organic frameworks, and biohybrids, including their fabrication methods. We also showcase the use of hybrid nanomaterials to advance biomedical engineering in the context of nanomedicine, regenerative medicine, diagnostics, theranostics, and biomanufacturing. Finally, we offer perspectives on challenges and opportunities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dong Zhang
- The Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30332, USA
| | - Yidan Chen
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA 30332, USA
| | - Min Hao
- The Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30332, USA
| | - Younan Xia
- The Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30332, USA
- School of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA 30332, USA
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5
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Okmen Altas B, Goktas C, Topcu G, Aydogan N. Multi-Stimuli-Responsive Tadpole-like Polymer/Lipid Janus Microrobots for Advanced Smart Material Applications. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2024; 16:15533-15547. [PMID: 38356451 PMCID: PMC10983008 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.3c18826] [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: 12/15/2023] [Revised: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
Microrobots are of significant interest due to their smart transport capabilities, especially for precisely targeted delivery in dynamic environments (blood, cell membranes, tumor interstitial matrixes, blood-brain barrier, mucosa, and other body fluids). To perform a more complex micromanipulation in biological applications, it is highly desirable for microrobots to be stimulated with multiple stimuli rather than a single stimulus. Herein, the biodegradable and biocompatible smart micromotors with a Janus architecture consisting of PrecirolATO 5 and polycaprolactone compartments inspired by the anisotropic geometry of tadpoles and sperms are newly designed. These bioinspired micromotors combine the advantageous properties of polypyrrole nanoparticles (NPs), a high near-infrared light-absorbing agent with high photothermal conversion efficiency, and magnetic NPs, which respond to the magnetic field and exhibit multistimulus-responsive behavior. By combining both fields, we achieved an "on/off" propulsion mechanism that can enable us to overcome complex tasks and limitations in liquid environments and overcome the limitations encountered by single actuation applications. Moreover, the magnetic particles offer other functions such as removing organic pollutants via the Fenton reaction. Janus-structured motors provide a broad perspective not only for biosensing, optical detection, and on-chip separation applications but also for environmental water treatment due to the catalytic activities of multistimulus-responsive micromotors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Burcu Okmen Altas
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Hacettepe University, Beytepe, 06800 Ankara, Turkey
| | | | | | - Nihal Aydogan
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Hacettepe University, Beytepe, 06800 Ankara, Turkey
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6
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McGovern AD, Huang MJ, Wang J, Kapral R, Aranson IS. Multifunctional Chiral Chemically-Powered Micropropellers for Cargo Transport and Manipulation. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2024; 20:e2304773. [PMID: 37936335 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202304773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2023] [Revised: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 11/09/2023]
Abstract
Practical applications of synthetic self-propelled nano and microparticles for microrobotics, targeted drug delivery, and manipulation at the nanoscale are rapidly expanding. However, fabrication limitations often hinder progress, resulting in relatively simple shapes and limited functionality. Here, taking advantage of 3D nanoscale printing, chiral micropropellers powered by the hydrogen peroxide reduction reaction are fabricated. Due to their chirality, the propellers exhibit multifunctional behavior controlled by an applied magnetic field: spinning in place (loitering), directed migration in the prescribed direction, capture, and transport of polymer cargo particles. Design parameters of the propellers are optimized by computation modeling based on mesoscale molecular dynamics. It is predicted by computer simulations, and confirmed experimentally, that clockwise rotating propellers attract each other and counterclockwise repel. These results shed light on how chirality and shape optimization enhance the functionality of synthetic autonomous micromachines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashlee D McGovern
- Department of Chemistry, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, 16802, USA
| | - Mu-Jie Huang
- Chemical Physics Theory Group, Department of Chemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 3H6, Canada
| | - Jiyuan Wang
- School of Electrical and Control Engineering, Heilongjiang University of Science and Technology, Harbin, 150022, P. R. China
| | - Raymond Kapral
- Chemical Physics Theory Group, Department of Chemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 3H6, Canada
| | - Igor S Aranson
- Department of Chemistry, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, 16802, USA
- Department of Mathematics, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, 16802, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, 16802, USA
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7
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Huang H, Yang S, Ying Y, Chen X, Puigmartí-Luis J, Zhang L, Pané S. 3D Motion Manipulation for Micro- and Nanomachines: Progress and Future Directions. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2024; 36:e2305925. [PMID: 37801654 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202305925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2023] [Revised: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 10/08/2023]
Abstract
In the past decade, micro- and nanomachines (MNMs) have made outstanding achievements in the fields of targeted drug delivery, tumor therapy, microsurgery, biological detection, and environmental monitoring and remediation. Researchers have made significant efforts to accelerate the rapid development of MNMs capable of moving through fluids by means of different energy sources (chemical reactions, ultrasound, light, electricity, magnetism, heat, or their combinations). However, the motion of MNMs is primarily investigated in confined two-dimensional (2D) horizontal setups. Furthermore, three-dimensional (3D) motion control remains challenging, especially for vertical movement and control, significantly limiting its potential applications in cargo transportation, environmental remediation, and biotherapy. Hence, an urgent need is to develop MNMs that can overcome self-gravity and controllably move in 3D spaces. This review delves into the latest progress made in MNMs with 3D motion capabilities under different manipulation approaches, discusses the underlying motion mechanisms, explores potential design concepts inspired by nature for controllable 3D motion in MNMs, and presents the available 3D observation and tracking systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hai Huang
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou, 310018, China
| | - Shihao Yang
- Department of Mechanical and Automation Engineering, the Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, N.T., Hong Kong, 999077, China
| | - Yulong Ying
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou, 310018, China
| | - Xiangzhong Chen
- Institute of Optoelectronics, State Key Laboratory of Photovoltaic Science and Technology, Shanghai Frontiers Science Research Base of Intelligent Optoelectronics and Perception, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Josep Puigmartí-Luis
- Departament de Ciència dels Materials i Química Física, Institut de Química Teòrica i Computacional, University of Barcelona (UB), Barcelona, 08028, Spain
- Institució Catalana de Recerca i Estudis Avançats (ICREA), Pg. Lluís Companys 23, Barcelona, 08010, Spain
| | - Li Zhang
- Department of Mechanical and Automation Engineering, the Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, N.T., Hong Kong, 999077, China
| | - Salvador Pané
- Multi-Scale Robotics Lab, Institute of Robotics and Intelligent Systems, ETH Zürich, Tannenstrasse 3, Zürich, CH-8092, Switzerland
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8
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McNeill J, Mallouk TE. Acoustically Powered Nano- and Microswimmers: From Individual to Collective Behavior. ACS NANOSCIENCE AU 2023; 3:424-440. [PMID: 38144701 PMCID: PMC10740144 DOI: 10.1021/acsnanoscienceau.3c00038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Revised: 09/26/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/26/2023]
Abstract
Micro- and nanoscopic particles that swim autonomously and self-assemble under the influence of chemical fuels and external fields show promise for realizing systems capable of carrying out large-scale, predetermined tasks. Different behaviors can be realized by tuning swimmer interactions at the individual level in a manner analogous to the emergent collective behavior of bacteria and mammalian cells. However, the limited toolbox of weak forces with which to drive these systems has made it difficult to achieve useful collective functions. Here, we review recent research on driving swimming and particle self-organization using acoustic fields, which offers capabilities complementary to those of the other methods used to power microswimmers. With either chemical or acoustic propulsion (or a combination of the two), understanding individual swimming mechanisms and the forces that arise between individual particles is a prerequisite to harnessing their interactions to realize collective phenomena and macroscopic functionality. We discuss here the ingredients necessary to drive the motion of microscopic particles using ultrasound, the theory that describes that behavior, and the gaps in our understanding. We then cover the combination of acoustically powered systems with other cross-compatible driving forces and the use of ultrasound in generating collective behavior. Finally, we highlight the demonstrated applications of acoustically powered microswimmers, and we offer a perspective on the state of the field, open questions, and opportunities. We hope that this review will serve as a guide to students beginning their work in this area and motivate others to consider research in microswimmers and acoustic fields.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey
M. McNeill
- Department of Chemistry, University
of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, United States
| | - Thomas E. Mallouk
- Department of Chemistry, University
of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, United States
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9
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Wang W. Open Questions of Chemically Powered Nano- and Micromotors. J Am Chem Soc 2023; 145:27185-27197. [PMID: 38063192 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.3c09223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2023]
Abstract
Chemically powered nano- and micromotors are microscopic devices that convert chemical energy into motion. Interest in these motors has grown over the past 20 years because they exhibit interesting collective behaviors and have found potential uses in biomedical and environmental applications. Understanding how these motors operate both individually and collectively and how environments affect their operation is of both fundamental and applied significance. However, there are still significant gaps in our knowledge. This Perspective highlights several open questions regarding the propulsion mechanisms of, interactions among, and impact of confinements on nano- and micromotors driven by self-generated chemical gradients. These questions are based on my own experience as an experimentalist. For each open question, I describe the problem and its significance, analyze the status-quo, identify the bottleneck problem, and propose potential solutions. An underlying theme for these questions is the interplay among reaction kinetics, physicochemical distributions, and fluid flows. Unraveling this interplay requires careful measurements as well as a close collaboration between experimentalists and theoreticians/numerical experts. The interdisciplinary nature of these challenges suggests that their solutions could bring new revelations and opportunities across disciplines such as colloidal sciences, material sciences, soft matter physics, robotics, and beyond.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Wang
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology (Shenzhen), Shenzhen, Guangdong, China, 518055
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10
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Wang Y, Qin B, Gao S, Wang X, Zhang H, Wu Z. Recent advancements in Mg-based micromotors for biomedical and environmental applications. J Mater Chem B 2023; 11:11483-11495. [PMID: 38054245 DOI: 10.1039/d3tb02339g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/07/2023]
Abstract
Synthetic micro/nanomotors have attracted considerable attention due to their promising potential in the field of biomedicine. Despite their great potential, major micromotors require chemical fuels or complex devices to generate external physical fields for propulsion. Therefore, for future practical medical and environmental applications, Mg-based micromotors that exhibit water-powered movement and thus eliminate the need for toxic fuels, and that display optimal biocompatibility and biodegradability, are attracting attention. In this review, we summarized the recent microarchitectural design of Mg-based micromotors for biomedical applications. We also highlight the mechanism for realizing their water-powered motility. Furthermore, recent biomedical and environmental applications of Mg-based micromotors are introduced. We envision that advanced Mg-based micromotors will have a profound impact in biomedicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Wang
- School of Medicine and Health, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150001, China.
| | - Boyu Qin
- Department of Oncology, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing 100039, China.
| | - Sihan Gao
- School of Medicine and Health, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150001, China.
| | - Xuanchun Wang
- School of Medicine and Health, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150001, China.
| | - Hongyue Zhang
- Laboratory for Space Environment and Physical Sciences, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150001, China.
| | - Zhiguang Wu
- School of Medicine and Health, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150001, China.
- State Key Laboratory of Robotics and System, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150001, China
- Key Laboratory of Microsystems and Microstructures Manufacturing (Ministry of Education), Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150001, China
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11
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You Q, Shao X, Wang J, Chen X. Progress on Physical Field-Regulated Micro/Nanomotors for Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Disease Treatment. SMALL METHODS 2023; 7:e2300426. [PMID: 37391275 DOI: 10.1002/smtd.202300426] [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: 04/01/2023] [Revised: 06/02/2023] [Indexed: 07/02/2023]
Abstract
Cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases (CCVDs) are two major vasculature-related diseases that seriously affect public health worldwide, which can cause serious death and disability. Lack of targeting effect of the traditional CCVD treatment drugs may damage other tissues and organs, thus more specific methods are needed to solve this dilemma. Micro/nanomotors are new materials that can convert external energy into driving force for autonomous movement, which can not only enhance the penetration depth and retention rates, but also increase the contact areas with the lesion sites (such as thrombus and inflammation sites of blood vessels). Physical field-regulated micro/nanomotors using the physical energy sources with deep tissue penetration and controllable performance, such as magnetic field, light, and ultrasound, etc. are considered as the emerging patient-friendly and effective therapeutic tools to overcome the limitations of conventional CCVD treatments. Recent efforts have suggested that physical field-regulated micro/nanomotors on CCVD treatments could simultaneously provide efficient therapeutic effect and intelligent control. In this review, various physical field-driven micro/nanomotors are mainly introduced and their latest advances for CCVDs are highlighted. Last, the remaining challenges and future perspectives regarding the physical field-regulated micro/nanomotors for CCVD treatments are discussed and outlined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qing You
- Departments of Diagnostic Radiology, Surgery, Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, and Biomedical Engineering, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine and Faculty of Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 119074, Singapore
| | - Xinyue Shao
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of Hebei Province, Institute of Biophysics, School of Health Sciences and Biomedical Engineering, Hebei University of Technology, Tianjin, 300401, P. R. China
| | - Jinping Wang
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of Hebei Province, Institute of Biophysics, School of Health Sciences and Biomedical Engineering, Hebei University of Technology, Tianjin, 300401, P. R. China
| | - Xiaoyuan Chen
- Departments of Diagnostic Radiology, Surgery, Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, and Biomedical Engineering, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine and Faculty of Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 119074, Singapore
- Nanomedicine Translational Research Program, NUS Center for Nanomedicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117597, Singapore
- Clinical Imaging Research Centre, Centre for Translational Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117599, Singapore
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Agency for Science, Technology, and Research (A*STAR), Singapore, 138673, Singapore
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12
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Zheng L, Hart N, Zeng Y. Micro-/nanoscale robotics for chemical and biological sensing. LAB ON A CHIP 2023; 23:3741-3767. [PMID: 37496448 PMCID: PMC10530003 DOI: 10.1039/d3lc00404j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/28/2023]
Abstract
The field of micro-/nanorobotics has attracted extensive interest from a variety of research communities and witnessed enormous progress in a broad array of applications ranging from basic research to global healthcare and to environmental remediation and protection. In particular, micro-/nanoscale robots provide an enabling platform for the development of next-generation chemical and biological sensing modalities, owing to their unique advantages as programmable, self-sustainable, and/or autonomous mobile carriers to accommodate and promote physical and chemical processes. In this review, we intend to provide an overview of the state-of-the-art development in this area and share our perspective in the future trend. This review starts with a general introduction of micro-/nanorobotics and the commonly used methods for propulsion of micro-/nanorobots in solution, along with the commonly used methods in their fabrication. Next, we comprehensively summarize the current status of the micro/nanorobotic research in relevance to chemical and biological sensing (e.g., motion-based sensing, optical sensing, and electrochemical sensing). Following that, we provide an overview of the primary challenges currently faced in the micro-/nanorobotic research. Finally, we conclude this review by providing our perspective detailing the future application of soft robotics in chemical and biological sensing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liuzheng Zheng
- Department of Chemistry, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, 32611, USA.
| | - Nathan Hart
- Department of Chemistry, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, 32611, USA.
| | - Yong Zeng
- Department of Chemistry, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, 32611, USA.
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13
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Kong X, Gao P, Wang J, Fang Y, Hwang KC. Advances of medical nanorobots for future cancer treatments. J Hematol Oncol 2023; 16:74. [PMID: 37452423 PMCID: PMC10347767 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-023-01463-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2023] [Accepted: 05/31/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Early detection and diagnosis of many cancers is very challenging. Late stage detection of a cancer always leads to high mortality rates. It is imperative to develop novel and more sensitive and effective diagnosis and therapeutic methods for cancer treatments. The development of new cancer treatments has become a crucial aspect of medical advancements. Nanobots, as one of the most promising applications of nanomedicines, are at the forefront of multidisciplinary research. With the progress of nanotechnology, nanobots enable the assembly and deployment of functional molecular/nanosized machines and are increasingly being utilized in cancer diagnosis and therapeutic treatment. In recent years, various practical applications of nanobots for cancer treatments have transitioned from theory to practice, from in vitro experiments to in vivo applications. In this paper, we review and analyze the recent advancements of nanobots in cancer treatments, with a particular emphasis on their key fundamental features and their applications in drug delivery, tumor sensing and diagnosis, targeted therapy, minimally invasive surgery, and other comprehensive treatments. At the same time, we discuss the challenges and the potential research opportunities for nanobots in revolutionizing cancer treatments. In the future, medical nanobots are expected to become more sophisticated and capable of performing multiple medical functions and tasks, ultimately becoming true nanosubmarines in the bloodstream.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangyi Kong
- Department of Breast Surgical Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100021, China
- Department of Breast Surgical Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital and Shenzhen Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Shenzhen, 518116, China
| | - Peng Gao
- Department of Breast Surgical Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100021, China
- Division of Breast Surgery, Department of General Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
- Breast Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Jing Wang
- Department of Breast Surgical Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100021, China.
| | - Yi Fang
- Department of Breast Surgical Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100021, China.
| | - Kuo Chu Hwang
- Department of Chemistry, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, 30013, Taiwan ROC.
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14
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Chen X, Chen X, Peng Y, Zhu L, Wang W. Dielectrophoretic Colloidal Levitation by Electrode Polarization in Oscillating Electric Fields. LANGMUIR : THE ACS JOURNAL OF SURFACES AND COLLOIDS 2023; 39:6932-6945. [PMID: 37148258 DOI: 10.1021/acs.langmuir.3c00759] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
Controlled colloidal levitation is key to many applications. Recently, it was discovered that polymer microspheres were levitated to a few micrometers in aqueous solutions in alternating current (AC) electric fields. A few mechanisms have been proposed to explain this AC levitation such as electrohydrodynamic flows, asymmetric rectified electric fields, and aperiodic electrodiffusiophoresis. Here, we propose an alternative mechanism based on dielectrophoresis in a spatially inhomogeneous electric field gradient extending from the electrode surface micrometers into the bulk. This field gradient is derived from electrode polarization, where counterions accumulate near electrode surfaces. A dielectric microparticle is then levitated from the electrode surface to a height where the dielectrophoretic lift balances gravity. The dielectrophoretic levitation mechanism is supported by two numerical models. One model assumes point dipoles and solves for the Poisson-Nernst-Planck equations, while the second model incorporates a dielectric sphere of a realistic size and permittivity and uses the Maxwell-stress tensor formulation to solve for the electrical body force. In addition to proposing a plausible levitation mechanism, we further demonstrate that AC colloidal levitation can be used to move synthetic microswimmers to controlled heights. This study sheds light on understanding the dynamics of colloidal particles near an electrode and paves the way to using AC levitation to manipulate colloidal particles, active or passive.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaowen Chen
- Sauvage Laboratory for Smart Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology (Shenzhen), Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Xi Chen
- Sauvage Laboratory for Smart Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology (Shenzhen), Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Yixin Peng
- Sauvage Laboratory for Smart Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology (Shenzhen), Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Lailai Zhu
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117575, Singapore
| | - Wei Wang
- Sauvage Laboratory for Smart Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology (Shenzhen), Shenzhen 518055, China
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15
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Singh AK, Awasthi R, Malviya R. Bioinspired microrobots: Opportunities and challenges in targeted cancer therapy. J Control Release 2023; 354:439-452. [PMID: 36669531 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2023.01.042] [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: 12/08/2022] [Revised: 01/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/15/2023] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Chemotherapy is still the most effective technique to treat many forms of cancer. However, it also carries a high risk of side effects. Numerous nanomedicines have been developed to avoid unintended consequences and significant negative effects of conventional therapies. Achieving targeted drug delivery also has several challenges. In this context, the development of microrobots is receiving considerable attention of formulation scientists and clinicians to overcome such challenges. Due to their mobility, microrobots can infiltrate tissues and reach tumor sites more quickly. Different types of microrobots, like custom-made moving bacteria, microengines powered by small bubbles, and hybrid spermbots, can be designed with complex features that are best for precise targeting of a wide range of cancers. In this review, we mainly focus on the idea of how microrobots can quickly target cancer cells and discuss specific advantages of microrobots. A brief summary of the microrobots' drug loading and release behavior is provided in this manuscript. This manuscript will assist clinicians and other medical professionals in diagnosing and treating cancer without surgery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arun Kumar Singh
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Medical and Allied Sciences, Galgotias University, Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Rajendra Awasthi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Health Sciences & Technology, University of Petroleum and Energy Studies (UPES), Energy Acres, P.O. Bidholi, Via-Prem Nagar, Dehradun 248 007, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Rishabha Malviya
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Medical and Allied Sciences, Galgotias University, Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India.
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16
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Ramos Docampo MA. On Nanomachines and Their Future Perspectives in Biomedicine. Adv Biol (Weinh) 2023; 7:e2200308. [PMID: 36690500 DOI: 10.1002/adbi.202200308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2022] [Revised: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Nano/micromotors are a class of active matter that can self-propel converting different types of input energy into kinetic energy. The huge efforts that are made in this field over the last years result in remarkable advances. Specifically, a high number of publications have dealt with biomedical applications that these motors may offer. From the first attempts in 2D cell cultures, the research has evolved to tissue and in vivo experimentation, where motors show promising results. In this Perspective, an overview over the evolution of motors with focus on bio-relevant environments is provided. Then, a discussion on the advances and challenges is presented, and eventually some remarks and perspectives of the field are outlined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miguel A Ramos Docampo
- Interdisciplinary Nanoscience Center (iNANO), Aarhus University, Gustav Wieds Vej 14, Aarhus, 8000, Denmark
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17
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Voß J, Wittkowski R. Acoustic Propulsion of Nano- and Microcones: Dependence on the Viscosity of the Surrounding Fluid. LANGMUIR : THE ACS JOURNAL OF SURFACES AND COLLOIDS 2022; 38:10736-10748. [PMID: 35998334 DOI: 10.1021/acs.langmuir.2c00603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
This article investigates how the acoustic propulsion of cone-shaped colloidal particles that are exposed to a traveling ultrasound wave depends on the viscosity of the fluid surrounding the particles. Using acoustofluidic computer simulations, we found that the propulsion of such nano- and microcones decreases strongly and even changes sign for increasing shear viscosity. In contrast, we found only a weak dependence of the propulsion on the bulk viscosity. The obtained results are in line with the findings of previous theoretical and experimental studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johannes Voß
- Institute of Theoretical Physics, Center for Soft Nanoscience, Westfälische Wilhelms-Universität Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - Raphael Wittkowski
- Institute of Theoretical Physics, Center for Soft Nanoscience, Westfälische Wilhelms-Universität Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany
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18
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Hu Y, Li Z, Sun Y. Ultrasmall enzyme/light-powered nanomotor facilitates cholesterol detection. J Colloid Interface Sci 2022; 621:341-351. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jcis.2022.04.086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2022] [Revised: 03/25/2022] [Accepted: 04/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
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19
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Song S, Llopis-Lorente A, Mason AF, Abdelmohsen LKEA, van Hest JCM. Confined Motion: Motility of Active Microparticles in Cell-Sized Lipid Vesicles. J Am Chem Soc 2022; 144:13831-13838. [PMID: 35867803 PMCID: PMC9354240 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.2c05232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
![]()
Active materials can transduce external energy into kinetic
energy
at the nano and micron length scales. This unique feature has sparked
much research, which ranges from achieving fundamental understanding
of their motility to the assessment of potential applications. Traditionally,
motility is studied as a function of internal features such as particle
topology, while external parameters such as energy source are assessed
mainly in bulk. However, in real-life applications, confinement plays
a crucial role in determining the type of motion active particles
can adapt. This feature has been however surprisingly underexplored
experimentally. Here, we showcase a tunable experimental platform
to gain an insight into the dynamics of active particles in environments
with restricted 3D topology. Particularly, we examined the autonomous
motion of coacervate micromotors confined in giant unilamellar vesicles
(GUVs) spanning 10–50 μm in diameter and varied parameters
including fuel and micromotor concentration. We observed anomalous
diffusion upon confinement, leading to decreased motility, which was
more pronounced in smaller compartments. The results indicate that
the theoretically predicted hydrodynamic effect dominates the motion
mechanism within this platform. Our study provides a versatile approach
to understand the behavior of active matter under controlled, compartmentalized
conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shidong Song
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Chemistry, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Institute for Complex Molecular Systems (ICMS), Eindhoven University of Technology, Het Kranenveld 14, 5600 MB Eindhoven, The Netherland
| | - Antoni Llopis-Lorente
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Chemistry, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Institute for Complex Molecular Systems (ICMS), Eindhoven University of Technology, Het Kranenveld 14, 5600 MB Eindhoven, The Netherland.,Institute of Molecular Recognition and Technological Development (IDM); CIBER de Bioingeniería, Biomateriales y Nanomedicina (CIBER-BBN); Universitat Politècnica de València, Camino de Vera s/n, 46022 Valencia, Spain
| | - Alexander F Mason
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Chemistry, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Institute for Complex Molecular Systems (ICMS), Eindhoven University of Technology, Het Kranenveld 14, 5600 MB Eindhoven, The Netherland
| | - Loai K E A Abdelmohsen
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Chemistry, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Institute for Complex Molecular Systems (ICMS), Eindhoven University of Technology, Het Kranenveld 14, 5600 MB Eindhoven, The Netherland
| | - Jan C M van Hest
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Chemistry, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Institute for Complex Molecular Systems (ICMS), Eindhoven University of Technology, Het Kranenveld 14, 5600 MB Eindhoven, The Netherland
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20
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Das SS, Erez S, Karshalev E, Wu Y, Wang J, Yossifon G. Switching from Chemical to Electrical Micromotor Propulsion across a Gradient of Gastric Fluid via Magnetic Rolling. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2022; 14:30290-30298. [PMID: 35748802 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.2c02605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
To address and extend the finite lifetime of Mg-based micromotors due to the depletion of the engine (Mg-core), we examine electric fields, along with previously studied magnetic fields, to create a triple-engine hybrid micromotor for driving these micromotors. Electric fields are a facile energy source that is not limited in its operation time and can dynamically tune the micromotor mobility by simply changing the frequency and amplitude of the field. Moreover, the same electrical fields can be used for cell trapping and transport as well as drug delivery. However, the limitations of these propulsion mechanisms are the low pH (and high conductivity) environment required for Mg dissolution, while the electrical propulsion is quenched at these conditions as it requires low conductivity mediums. In order to translate the micromotor between these two extreme medium conditions, we use magnetic rolling as means of self-propulsion along with magnetic steering. Interestingly, electrical propulsion also necessitates at least the partial consumption of the Mg, resulting in a sufficient geometrical asymmetry of the micromotor. We have successfully demonstrated the rapid propulsion switching capability of the micromotor, from chemical to electrical motions, via magnetic rolling within a microfluidic device with the concentration gradient of the simulated gastric fluid. Such triple-engine micromotor propulsion holds considerable promise for in vitro studies mimicking gastric conditions and performing various bioassay tasks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sankha Shuvra Das
- Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Micro- and Nanofluidics Laboratory, Technion─Israel Institute of Technology, Technion City 3200000, Israel
| | - Shahar Erez
- Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Micro- and Nanofluidics Laboratory, Technion─Israel Institute of Technology, Technion City 3200000, Israel
- Department of Nanoengineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093, United States
| | - Emil Karshalev
- Department of Nanoengineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093, United States
| | - Yue Wu
- Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Micro- and Nanofluidics Laboratory, Technion─Israel Institute of Technology, Technion City 3200000, Israel
| | - Joseph Wang
- Department of Nanoengineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093, United States
| | - Gilad Yossifon
- Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Micro- and Nanofluidics Laboratory, Technion─Israel Institute of Technology, Technion City 3200000, Israel
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Tel Aviv University, Ramat Aviv 6997801, Israel
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21
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Shao J, Cao S, Che H, De Martino MT, Wu H, Abdelmohsen LKEA, van Hest JCM. Twin-Engine Janus Supramolecular Nanomotors with Counterbalanced Motion. J Am Chem Soc 2022; 144:11246-11252. [PMID: 35700477 PMCID: PMC9247982 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.2c02682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Supramolecular nanomotors were created with two types of propelling forces that were able to counterbalance each other. The particles were based on bowl-shaped polymer vesicles, or stomatocytes, assembled from the amphiphilic block copolymer poly(ethylene glycol)-block-polystyrene. The first method of propulsion was installed by loading the nanocavity of the stomatocytes with the enzyme catalase, which enabled the decomposition of hydrogen peroxide into water and oxygen, leading to a chemically induced motion. The second method of propulsion was attained by applying a hemispherical gold coating on the stomatocytes, on the opposite side of the opening, making the particles susceptible to near-infrared laser light. By exposing these Janus-type twin engine nanomotors to both hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and near-infrared light, two competing driving forces were synchronously generated, resulting in a counterbalanced, "seesaw effect" motion. By precisely manipulating the incident laser power and concentration of H2O2, the supramolecular nanomotors could be halted in a standby mode. Furthermore, the fact that these Janus stomatocytes were equipped with opposing motile forces also provided a proof of the direction of motion of the enzyme-activated stomatocytes. Finally, the modulation of the "seesaw effect", by tuning the net outcome of the two coexisting driving forces, was used to attain switchable control of the motile behavior of the twin-engine nanomotors. Supramolecular nanomotors that can be steered by two orthogonal propulsion mechanisms hold considerable potential for being used in complex tasks, including active transportation and environmental remediation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingxin Shao
- Bio-Organic Chemistry, Institute for Complex Molecular Systems, Eindhoven University of Technology, P.O. Box 513 (STO 3.41), 5600 MB Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Shoupeng Cao
- Bio-Organic Chemistry, Institute for Complex Molecular Systems, Eindhoven University of Technology, P.O. Box 513 (STO 3.41), 5600 MB Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Hailong Che
- Bio-Organic Chemistry, Institute for Complex Molecular Systems, Eindhoven University of Technology, P.O. Box 513 (STO 3.41), 5600 MB Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Maria Teresa De Martino
- Bio-Organic Chemistry, Institute for Complex Molecular Systems, Eindhoven University of Technology, P.O. Box 513 (STO 3.41), 5600 MB Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Hanglong Wu
- Bio-Organic Chemistry, Institute for Complex Molecular Systems, Eindhoven University of Technology, P.O. Box 513 (STO 3.41), 5600 MB Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Loai K E A Abdelmohsen
- Bio-Organic Chemistry, Institute for Complex Molecular Systems, Eindhoven University of Technology, P.O. Box 513 (STO 3.41), 5600 MB Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Jan C M van Hest
- Bio-Organic Chemistry, Institute for Complex Molecular Systems, Eindhoven University of Technology, P.O. Box 513 (STO 3.41), 5600 MB Eindhoven, The Netherlands
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22
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Li H, Li Y, Liu J, He Q, Wu Y. Asymmetric colloidal motors: from dissymmetric nanoarchitectural fabrication to efficient propulsion strategy. NANOSCALE 2022; 14:7444-7459. [PMID: 35546337 DOI: 10.1039/d2nr00610c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Janus colloidal motors (JCMs) are versatile anisotropic particles that can effectively move autonomously based on their asymmetric structures, providing unlimited possibilities for various tasks. Developing novel JCMs with controllable size, engineered nanostructure and functionalized surface properties has always been a challenge for chemists. This review summarizes the recent progress in synthesized JCMs in terms of their fabrication method, propulsion strategy, and biomedical applications. The design options, construction methods, and typical examples of JCMs are presented. Common propulsion mechanisms of JCMs are reviewed, as well as the approaches to control their motion under complex microscopic conditions based on symmetry-breaking strategies. The precisely controlled motion enables JCMs to be used in biomedicine, environmental remediation, analytical sensing and nanoengineering. Finally, perspectives on future research and development are presented. Through ingenious design and multi-functionality, new JCM-based technologies could address more and more special needs in complex environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haichao Li
- Key Laboratory of Microsystems and Microstructures Manufacturing (Ministry of Education), School of Medicine and Health, Harbin Institute of Technology, No. 92 XiDaZhi Street, Harbin, 150001, China.
| | - Yue Li
- Key Laboratory of Microsystems and Microstructures Manufacturing (Ministry of Education), School of Medicine and Health, Harbin Institute of Technology, No. 92 XiDaZhi Street, Harbin, 150001, China.
| | - Jun Liu
- Key Laboratory of Microsystems and Microstructures Manufacturing (Ministry of Education), School of Medicine and Health, Harbin Institute of Technology, No. 92 XiDaZhi Street, Harbin, 150001, China.
| | - Qiang He
- Key Laboratory of Microsystems and Microstructures Manufacturing (Ministry of Education), School of Medicine and Health, Harbin Institute of Technology, No. 92 XiDaZhi Street, Harbin, 150001, China.
| | - Yingjie Wu
- Key Laboratory of Microsystems and Microstructures Manufacturing (Ministry of Education), School of Medicine and Health, Harbin Institute of Technology, No. 92 XiDaZhi Street, Harbin, 150001, China.
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23
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Abstract
Microrobots have been developed and extensively employed for performing the variety tasks with various applications. However, the intricate fabrication and actuation processes employed for microrobots further restrict their multitudinous applicability as well as the controllability in high accuracy. As an alternative, in this work an aquatic microrobot was developed using a distinctive concept of the building block technique where the microrobot was built based on the block to block design. An in-house electromagnetic system as well as the control algorithm were developed to achieve the precise real-time dynamics of the microrobot for extensive applications. In addition, pivotal control parameters of the microrobot including the actuating waveforms together with the operational parameters were verified and discussed in conjunction with the magnetic intensity simulation. A mixing task was performed with high efficiency based on the trajectory planning and rotation control of the microrobot to demonstrate its capability in flow manipulation which can be advantageous for microreactor applications down the load. Aside from it, a dissolution test was further conducted to provide an on-demand flow agitation function of the microrobot for the next level of lab chip applications. The presented work with detail dynamic analysis is envisaged to provide a new look of microrobot control and functions from the engineering perspective with profoundly potential applications.
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24
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Voß J, Wittkowski R. Orientation-Dependent Propulsion of Triangular Nano- and Microparticles by a Traveling Ultrasound Wave. ACS NANO 2022; 16:3604-3612. [PMID: 35263102 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.1c02302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Previous studies on ultrasound-propelled nano- and microparticles have considered only systems in which the particle orientation is perpendicular to the direction of propagation of the ultrasound. However, in future applications of these particles, they will typically be able to attain other orientations. Therefore, using direct acoustofluidic simulations, here we study how the propulsion of triangular nano- and microparticles, which are known to have a particularly efficient acoustic propulsion and are therefore promising candidates for future applications, depends on their orientation relative to the propagation direction of a traveling ultrasound wave. Our results reveal that the propulsion of the particles depends strongly on their orientation relative to the direction of wave propagation and that the particles tend to orient perpendicularly to the wave direction. We also address the orientation-averaged translational and angular velocities of the particles, which correspond to the particles' effective propulsion for an isotropic exposure to ultrasound. Our results allow assessment of how free ultrasound-propelled colloidal particles move in three spatial dimensions and thus constitute an important step toward the realization of envisaged future applications of such particles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johannes Voß
- Institut für Theoretische Physik, Center for Soft Nanoscience, Westfälische Wilhelms-Universität Münster, D-48149 Münster, Germany
| | - Raphael Wittkowski
- Institut für Theoretische Physik, Center for Soft Nanoscience, Westfälische Wilhelms-Universität Münster, D-48149 Münster, Germany
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25
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Yuan S, Zheng Q, Yao B, Wen M, Zhang W, Yuan J, Lei H. Bio-compatible miniature viscosity sensor based on optical tweezers. BIOMEDICAL OPTICS EXPRESS 2022; 13:1152-1160. [PMID: 35414967 PMCID: PMC8973159 DOI: 10.1364/boe.452615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2022] [Revised: 01/23/2022] [Accepted: 01/23/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Viscosity is a fundamental biomechanical parameter related to the function and pathological status of cells and tissues. Viscosity sensing is of vital importance in early biomedical diagnosis and health monitoring. To date, there have been few methods of miniature viscosity sensing with high safety, flexible controllability, and excellent biocompatibility. Here, an indirect optical method combining the significant advantages of both optical tweezers and microflows has been presented in this paper to construct a cellular micromotor-based viscosity sensor. Optical tweezers are used to drive a yeast cell or biocompatible SiO2 particle to rotate along a circular orbit and thus generate a microvortex. Another target yeast cell in the vortex center can be controllably rotated under the action of viscous stress to form a cellular micromotor. As the ambient viscosity increases, the rotation rate of the micromotor is reduced, and thus viscosity sensing is realized by measuring the relationship between the two parameters. The proposed synthetic material-free and fuel-free method is safer, more flexible, and biocompatible, which makes the cellular micromotor-based viscosity sensor a potential detector of the function and pathological status of cells and tissues in vivo without introducing any exogenous cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shun Yuan
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, State Key Laboratory of Optoelectronic Materials and Technologies, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Qing Zheng
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, State Key Laboratory of Optoelectronic Materials and Technologies, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Benjun Yao
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, State Key Laboratory of Optoelectronic Materials and Technologies, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Mingcong Wen
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, State Key Laboratory of Optoelectronic Materials and Technologies, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Weina Zhang
- School of Information Engineering, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Photonics Information Technology, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Jie Yuan
- School of Medical Informatics, Daqing Campus, Harbin Medical University, Daqing, 163319, China
| | - Hongxiang Lei
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, State Key Laboratory of Optoelectronic Materials and Technologies, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
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26
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Li D, Zheng Y, Zhang Z, Zhang Q, Huang X, Dong R, Cai Y, Wang L. Single-Metal Hybrid Micromotor. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2022; 10:844328. [PMID: 35237586 PMCID: PMC8883031 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2022.844328] [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: 12/28/2021] [Accepted: 01/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Multimode stimuli-regulated propulsions are extremely useful for artificial micro-/nanomotors in performing specialized tasks in different microscopic environments. However, it is still a great challenge to develop a simple and efficient micro/nanosystem which can operate in complicated environments, either with fuel or without fuel. Here, we report a novel hybrid micromotor which only needs one metal with a special structure: micro-spherical shell with a hole. Since we attractively combine the inherently catalytic properties of Pt for chemical propulsion with a designed concave structure for acoustic propulsion, the micromotors can not only move rapidly in H2O2 fueled environment due to the chemical reaction between Pt and H2O2 but also can exhibit excellent acoustic propulsion in a fuel-free environment due to the non-uniform stress caused by ultrasound. In addition, the attractive group motion behavior of the motors, including aggregation, group migration, and dispersion, is easily realized by acoustic field regulation. The brand-new single-metal hybrid micromotors with a dual driving mode, flexible propulsion regulation, and efficient group motion regulation, which are essential for making micro-/nanomotors compatible with different surrounding environments, are expected to advance the field of artificial nanomachines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dajian Li
- School of Chemistry, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yuhong Zheng
- School of Chemistry, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhanxiang Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Robotics and System, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, China
| | - Qi Zhang
- School of Chemistry, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaoying Huang
- School of Chemistry, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Renfeng Dong
- School of Chemistry, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Renfeng Dong, ; Yuepeng Cai, ; Lin Wang,
| | - Yuepeng Cai
- School of Chemistry, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Renfeng Dong, ; Yuepeng Cai, ; Lin Wang,
| | - Lin Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Robotics and System, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, China
- *Correspondence: Renfeng Dong, ; Yuepeng Cai, ; Lin Wang,
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Yao J, Yao C, Zhang A, Xu X, Wu A, Yang F. Magnetomechanical force: an emerging paradigm for therapeutic applications. J Mater Chem B 2022; 10:7136-7147. [DOI: 10.1039/d2tb00428c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Mechanical forces, which play an profound role in cell fate regulation, have prompted the rapid development and popularization of mechanobiology. More recently, magnetic fields in combination with intelligent materials featuring...
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28
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Voß J, Wittkowski R. Acoustically propelled nano- and microcones: fast forward and backward motion. NANOSCALE ADVANCES 2021; 4:281-293. [PMID: 36132955 PMCID: PMC9417971 DOI: 10.1039/d1na00655j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2021] [Accepted: 10/21/2021] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
We focus on cone-shaped nano- and microparticles, which have recently been found to show particularly strong propulsion when they are exposed to a traveling ultrasound wave, and study based on direct acoustofluidic computer simulations how their propulsion depends on the cones' aspect ratio. The simulations reveal that the propulsion velocity and even its sign are very sensitive to the aspect ratio, where short particles move forward whereas elongated particles move backward. Furthermore, we identify a cone shape that allows for a particularly large propulsion speed. Our results contribute to the understanding of the propulsion of ultrasound-propelled colloidal particles, suggest a method for separation and sorting of nano- and microcones concerning their aspect ratio, and provide useful guidance for future experiments and applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johannes Voß
- Institut für Theoretische Physik, Center for Soft Nanoscience, Westfälische Wilhelms-Universität Münster D-48149 Münster Germany
| | - Raphael Wittkowski
- Institut für Theoretische Physik, Center for Soft Nanoscience, Westfälische Wilhelms-Universität Münster D-48149 Münster Germany
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29
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Liu M, Zhang G, Feng Y, Kuai Y, Chen K, Cong J, Piao HG, Liu Y, Pan L. Highly Efficient Magnetic Propulsion of NiFe Nanorod-Based Miniature Swimmers in Three Dimensions. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2021; 13:58898-58907. [PMID: 34851101 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.1c16677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Magnetically actuated miniature robots have attracted the attention of the scientific community over the past two decades, but the confined workspace of their manipulation system (typically a tri-axial coil or eight electromagnetic coils) and the low efficiency of propulsion have limited their utility. Here, we describe a highly efficient NiFe nanorod-based magnetic miniature swimmer that can be manipulated in 3D spaces using two pairs of coils placed in the x-y horizontal plane. In the new swimmer, the shape symmetry is broken along its body, and the asymmetry in magnetizations is introduced perpendicular to the long axis of its body simultaneously. Such a combined asymmetry design offers favorable controllability in planar magnetic fields, which relaxes the multi-axial coil requirement of the commonly used manipulation system and thus reduces the restriction on the shape and size of the workspaces. The new swimmers display efficient 3D propulsion, with a speed of over 5000 μm s-1 (∼3 body length s-1) and powerful locomotion in biological media such as raw human blood. The fuel utilization efficiency of the swimmer, defined as the ratio of the distance to the net input work in one period, was estimated to be approximately from 10-2 to 10-3 m/J, which is significantly higher than that of magnetic motors with a slender body. Moreover, to provide practical support for further potential use, we demonstrated that the swimmer is able to perform incision operations as a minimally invasive microsurgical tool. Such a swimmer actuation strategy provides a simple and efficient way for 3D manipulation of magnetic miniature robots, offering great potential for future biomedical and other applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Liu
- Hubei Engineering Research Center of Weak Magnetic-field Detection & College of Science, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, Hubei 443002, China
| | - Guangqiang Zhang
- Hubei Engineering Research Center of Weak Magnetic-field Detection & College of Science, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, Hubei 443002, China
| | - Yibin Feng
- Hubei Engineering Research Center of Weak Magnetic-field Detection & College of Science, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, Hubei 443002, China
| | - Yanbing Kuai
- Hubei Engineering Research Center of Weak Magnetic-field Detection & College of Science, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, Hubei 443002, China
| | - Kaixuan Chen
- Hubei Engineering Research Center of Weak Magnetic-field Detection & College of Science, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, Hubei 443002, China
| | - Jiawei Cong
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu 212013, China
| | - Hong-Guang Piao
- Hubei Engineering Research Center of Weak Magnetic-field Detection & College of Science, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, Hubei 443002, China
| | - Yiman Liu
- Hubei Engineering Research Center of Weak Magnetic-field Detection & College of Science, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, Hubei 443002, China
| | - Liqing Pan
- Hubei Engineering Research Center of Weak Magnetic-field Detection & College of Science, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, Hubei 443002, China
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30
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Song S, Mason AF, Post RAJ, De Corato M, Mestre R, Yewdall NA, Cao S, van der Hofstad RW, Sanchez S, Abdelmohsen LKEA, van Hest JCM. Engineering transient dynamics of artificial cells by stochastic distribution of enzymes. Nat Commun 2021; 12:6897. [PMID: 34824231 PMCID: PMC8617035 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-27229-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2021] [Accepted: 11/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Random fluctuations are inherent to all complex molecular systems. Although nature has evolved mechanisms to control stochastic events to achieve the desired biological output, reproducing this in synthetic systems represents a significant challenge. Here we present an artificial platform that enables us to exploit stochasticity to direct motile behavior. We found that enzymes, when confined to the fluidic polymer membrane of a core-shell coacervate, were distributed stochastically in time and space. This resulted in a transient, asymmetric configuration of propulsive units, which imparted motility to such coacervates in presence of substrate. This mechanism was confirmed by stochastic modelling and simulations in silico. Furthermore, we showed that a deeper understanding of the mechanism of stochasticity could be utilized to modulate the motion output. Conceptually, this work represents a leap in design philosophy in the construction of synthetic systems with life-like behaviors. Here the authors develop a coacervate micromotor that can display autonomous motion as a result of stochastic distribution of propelling units. This stochastic-induced mobility is validated and explained through experiments and theory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shidong Song
- Department of Bio-Organic Chemistry, Institute of Complex Molecular Systems (ICMS), Eindhoven University of Technology, 5600 MB, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Alexander F Mason
- Department of Bio-Organic Chemistry, Institute of Complex Molecular Systems (ICMS), Eindhoven University of Technology, 5600 MB, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Richard A J Post
- Department of Mathematics and Computer Science, Institute of Complex Molecular Systems (ICMS), Eindhoven University of Technology, 5600 MB, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Marco De Corato
- Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, 08028, Barcelona, Spain.,Aragon Institute of Engineering Research (I3A), University of Zaragoza, 50009, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Rafael Mestre
- Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, 08028, Barcelona, Spain
| | - N Amy Yewdall
- Department of Bio-Organic Chemistry, Institute of Complex Molecular Systems (ICMS), Eindhoven University of Technology, 5600 MB, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Shoupeng Cao
- Department of Bio-Organic Chemistry, Institute of Complex Molecular Systems (ICMS), Eindhoven University of Technology, 5600 MB, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Remco W van der Hofstad
- Department of Mathematics and Computer Science, Institute of Complex Molecular Systems (ICMS), Eindhoven University of Technology, 5600 MB, Eindhoven, The Netherlands.
| | - Samuel Sanchez
- Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, 08028, Barcelona, Spain. .,Institució Catalana de Recerca i Estudis Avançats (ICREA), Pg. Lluís Companys 23, 08010, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Loai K E A Abdelmohsen
- Department of Bio-Organic Chemistry, Institute of Complex Molecular Systems (ICMS), Eindhoven University of Technology, 5600 MB, Eindhoven, The Netherlands.
| | - Jan C M van Hest
- Department of Bio-Organic Chemistry, Institute of Complex Molecular Systems (ICMS), Eindhoven University of Technology, 5600 MB, Eindhoven, The Netherlands.
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31
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Wang W, Mallouk TE. A Practical Guide to Analyzing and Reporting the Movement of Nanoscale Swimmers. ACS NANO 2021; 15:15446-15460. [PMID: 34636550 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.1c07503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
The recent invention of nanoswimmers-synthetic, powered objects with characteristic lengths in the range of 10-500 nm-has sparked widespread interest among scientists and the general public. As more researchers from different backgrounds enter the field, the study of nanoswimmers offers new opportunities but also significant experimental and theoretical challenges. In particular, the accurate characterization of nanoswimmers is often hindered by strong Brownian motion, convective effects, and the lack of a clear way to visualize them. When coupled with improper experimental designs and imprecise practices in data analysis, these issues can translate to results and conclusions that are inconsistent and poorly reproducible. This Perspective follows the course of a typical nanoswimmer investigation from synthesis through to applications and offers suggestions for best practices in reporting experimental details, recording videos, plotting trajectories, calculating and analyzing mobility, eliminating drift, and performing control experiments, in order to improve the reliability of the reported results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Wang
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology (Shenzhen), Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Thomas E Mallouk
- Department of Chemistry, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104-6243, United States
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Mechanisms of transport enhancement for self-propelled nanoswimmers in a porous matrix. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2021; 118:2101807118. [PMID: 34183394 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2101807118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Micro/nanoswimmers convert diverse energy sources into directional movement, demonstrating significant promise for biomedical and environmental applications, many of which involve complex, tortuous, or crowded environments. Here, we investigated the transport behavior of self-propelled catalytic Janus particles in a complex interconnected porous void space, where the rate-determining step involves the escape from a cavity and translocation through holes to adjacent cavities. Surprisingly, self-propelled nanoswimmers escaped from cavities more than 20× faster than passive (Brownian) particles, despite the fact that the mobility of nanoswimmers was less than 2× greater than that of passive particles in unconfined bulk liquid. Combining experimental measurements, Monte Carlo simulations, and theoretical calculations, we found that the escape of nanoswimmers was enhanced by nuanced secondary effects of self-propulsion which were amplified in confined environments. In particular, active escape was facilitated by anomalously rapid confined short-time mobility, highly efficient surface-mediated searching for holes, and the effective abolition of entropic and/or electrostatic barriers at the exit hole regions by propulsion forces. The latter mechanism converted the escape process from barrier-limited to search-limited. These findings provide general and important insights into micro/nanoswimmer mobility in complex environments.
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33
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Zhang J, Song J, Mou F, Guan J, Sen A. Titania-Based Micro/Nanomotors: Design Principles, Biomimetic Collective Behavior, and Applications. TRENDS IN CHEMISTRY 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.trechm.2021.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
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Abstract
![]()
Manipulation and navigation of micro
and nanoswimmers in different
fluid environments can be achieved by chemicals, external fields,
or even motile cells. Many researchers have selected magnetic fields
as the active external actuation source based on the advantageous
features of this actuation strategy such as remote and spatiotemporal
control, fuel-free, high degree of reconfigurability, programmability,
recyclability, and versatility. This review introduces fundamental
concepts and advantages of magnetic micro/nanorobots (termed here
as “MagRobots”) as well as basic knowledge of magnetic
fields and magnetic materials, setups for magnetic manipulation, magnetic
field configurations, and symmetry-breaking strategies for effective
movement. These concepts are discussed to describe the interactions
between micro/nanorobots and magnetic fields. Actuation mechanisms
of flagella-inspired MagRobots (i.e., corkscrew-like motion and traveling-wave
locomotion/ciliary stroke motion) and surface walkers (i.e., surface-assisted
motion), applications of magnetic fields in other propulsion approaches,
and magnetic stimulation of micro/nanorobots beyond motion are provided
followed by fabrication techniques for (quasi-)spherical, helical,
flexible, wire-like, and biohybrid MagRobots. Applications of MagRobots
in targeted drug/gene delivery, cell manipulation, minimally invasive
surgery, biopsy, biofilm disruption/eradication, imaging-guided delivery/therapy/surgery,
pollution removal for environmental remediation, and (bio)sensing
are also reviewed. Finally, current challenges and future perspectives
for the development of magnetically powered miniaturized motors are
discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huaijuan Zhou
- Center for Advanced Functional Nanorobots, Department of Inorganic Chemistry, University of Chemistry and Technology Prague, Technicka 5, 166 28 Prague 6, Czech Republic
| | - Carmen C Mayorga-Martinez
- Center for Advanced Functional Nanorobots, Department of Inorganic Chemistry, University of Chemistry and Technology Prague, Technicka 5, 166 28 Prague 6, Czech Republic
| | - Salvador Pané
- Multi-Scale Robotics Lab (MSRL), Institute of Robotics and Intelligent Systems (IRIS), ETH Zurich, Tannenstrasse 3, 8092 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Li Zhang
- Department of Mechanical and Automation Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong 999077, China
| | - Martin Pumera
- Center for Advanced Functional Nanorobots, Department of Inorganic Chemistry, University of Chemistry and Technology Prague, Technicka 5, 166 28 Prague 6, Czech Republic.,Department of Medical Research, China Medical University Hospital, China Medical University, No. 91 Hsueh-Shih Road, Taichung 40402, Taiwan.,Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Mendel University in Brno, Zemedelska 1, CZ-613 00 Brno, Czech Republic.,Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Yonsei University, 50 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul 03722, Korea.,Future Energy and Innovation Laboratory, Central European Institute of Technology, Brno University of Technology, Purkyňova 656/123, Brno CZ-612 00, Czech Republic
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35
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Moran JL, Wheat PM, Marine NA, Posner JD. Chemokinesis-driven accumulation of active colloids in low-mobility regions of fuel gradients. Sci Rep 2021; 11:4785. [PMID: 33637781 PMCID: PMC7910604 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-83963-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2020] [Accepted: 02/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Many motile cells exhibit migratory behaviors, such as chemotaxis (motion up or down a chemical gradient) or chemokinesis (dependence of speed on chemical concentration), which enable them to carry out vital functions including immune response, egg fertilization, and predator evasion. These have inspired researchers to develop self-propelled colloidal analogues to biological microswimmers, known as active colloids, that perform similar feats. Here, we study the behavior of half-platinum half-gold (Pt/Au) self-propelled rods in antiparallel gradients of hydrogen peroxide fuel and salt, which tend to increase and decrease the rods' speed, respectively. Brownian Dynamics simulations, a Fokker-Planck theoretical model, and experiments demonstrate that, at steady state, the rods accumulate in low-speed (salt-rich, peroxide-poor) regions not because of chemotaxis, but because of chemokinesis. Chemokinesis is distinct from chemotaxis in that no directional sensing or reorientation capabilities are required. The agreement between simulations, model, and experiments bolsters the role of chemokinesis in this system. This work suggests a novel strategy of exploiting chemokinesis to effect accumulation of motile colloids in desired areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey L Moran
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, George Mason University, Fairfax, VA, USA.
| | - Philip M Wheat
- Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, USA
| | - Nathan A Marine
- Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, USA
| | - Jonathan D Posner
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA. .,Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA. .,Department of Family Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.
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36
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Mallick A, Paul S, Ben T, Qiu S, Verpoort F, Roy S. Direct realization of an Operando Systems Chemistry Algorithm (OSCAL) for powering nanomotors. NANOSCALE 2021; 13:3543-3551. [PMID: 33514988 DOI: 10.1039/d0nr06849g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Systems chemistry focuses on emergent properties in a complex matter. To design and demonstrate such emergent properties like autonomous motion in nanomotors as an output of an Operando Systems Chemistry Algorithm (OSCAL), we employ a 2-component system comprising porous organic frameworks (POFs) and soft-oxometalates (SOMs). The OSCAL governs the motion of the nanocarpets by the coding and reading of information in an assembly/disassembly cascade switched on by a chemical stimulus. Assembly algorithm docks SOMs into the pores of the POFs of the nanocarpet leading to the encoding of supramolecular structural information in the SOM-POF hybrid nanocarpet. Input of a chemical fuel to the system induces a catalytic reaction producing propellant gases and switches on the disassembly of SOMs that are concomitantly released from the pores of the SOM-POF nanocarpets producing a ballast in the system as a read-out of the coded information acquired in the supramolecular assembly. The OSCAL governs the motion of the nanocarpets in steps. The assembly/disassembly of SOM-POFs, releasing SOMs from the pores of SOM-POFs induced by a catalytic reaction triggered by a chemical stimulus coupled with the evolution of gas are the input. The output is the autonomous linear motion of the SOM-POF nanocarpets resulting from the read-out of the input information. This work thus manifests the operation of a designed Systems Chemistry algorithm which sets supramolecularly assembled SOM-POF nanocarpets into autonomous ballistic motion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Apabrita Mallick
- Eco-Friendly Applied Materials Laboratory (EFAML), Materials Science Centre, Department of Chemical Sciences, Mohanpur Campus, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research, Kolkata, 741246, West Bengal, India.
| | - Shounik Paul
- Eco-Friendly Applied Materials Laboratory (EFAML), Materials Science Centre, Department of Chemical Sciences, Mohanpur Campus, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research, Kolkata, 741246, West Bengal, India.
| | - Teng Ben
- Department of Chemistry, Jilin University, Changchun 130012, China.
| | - Shilun Qiu
- Department of Chemistry, Jilin University, Changchun 130012, China.
| | - Francis Verpoort
- LOCOM, State Key Laboratory of Advanced Technology for Materials Synthesis and Processing, Wuhan University of Technology, 430070 Wuhan, P.R. China and Ghent University - Global Campus Songdo, 119 Songdomunhwa-Ro, Ywonsu-Gu, Incheon, Republic of Korea. and National Research Tomsk Polytechnic University, Lenin Avenue 30, 634050 Tomsk, Russian Federation
| | - Soumyajit Roy
- Eco-Friendly Applied Materials Laboratory (EFAML), Materials Science Centre, Department of Chemical Sciences, Mohanpur Campus, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research, Kolkata, 741246, West Bengal, India.
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37
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Somasundar A, Sen A. Chemically Propelled Nano and Micromotors in the Body: Quo Vadis? SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2021; 17:e2007102. [PMID: 33432722 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202007102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2020] [Revised: 12/08/2020] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
The active delivery of drugs to disease sites in response to specific biomarkers is a holy grail in theranostics. If successful, it would greatly diminish the therapeutic dosage and reduce collateral cytotoxicity. In this context, the development of nano and micromotors that are able to harvest local energy to move directionally is an important breakthrough. However, serious hurdles remain before such active systems can be employed in vivo in therapeutic applications. Such motors and their energy sources must be safe and biocompatible, they should be able to move through complex body fluids, and have the ability to reach specific cellular targets. Given the complexity in the design and deployment of nano and micromotors, it is also critically important to show that they are significantly superior to inactive "smart" nanoparticles in theranostics. Furthermore, receiving regulatory approval requires the ability to scale-up the production of nano and micromotors with uniformity in structure, function, and activity. In this essay, the limitations of the current nano and micromotors and the issues that need to be resolved before such motors are likely to find theranostic applications are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ambika Somasundar
- Departments of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, 16802, USA
| | - Ayusman Sen
- Departments of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, 16802, USA
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38
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Soto F, Karshalev E, Zhang F, Esteban Fernandez de Avila B, Nourhani A, Wang J. Smart Materials for Microrobots. Chem Rev 2021; 122:5365-5403. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.0c00999] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Fernando Soto
- Department of Nanoengineering, Chemical Engineering Program and Contextual Robotics Institute, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093, United States
| | - Emil Karshalev
- Department of Nanoengineering, Chemical Engineering Program and Contextual Robotics Institute, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093, United States
| | - Fangyu Zhang
- Department of Nanoengineering, Chemical Engineering Program and Contextual Robotics Institute, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093, United States
| | - Berta Esteban Fernandez de Avila
- Department of Nanoengineering, Chemical Engineering Program and Contextual Robotics Institute, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093, United States
| | - Amir Nourhani
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Department of Mathematics, Biology, Biomimicry Research and Innovation Center, University of Akron, Akron, Ohio 44325, United States
| | - Joseph Wang
- Department of Nanoengineering, Chemical Engineering Program and Contextual Robotics Institute, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093, United States
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39
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Wang W, Zhou C. A Journey of Nanomotors for Targeted Cancer Therapy: Principles, Challenges, and a Critical Review of the State-of-the-Art. Adv Healthc Mater 2021; 10:e2001236. [PMID: 33111501 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202001236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2020] [Revised: 10/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
A nanomotor is a miniaturized device that converts energy stored in the environment into mechanical motion. The last two decades have witnessed a surge of research interests in the biomedical applications of nanomotors, but little clinical translation. To accelerate this process, targeted cancer therapy is used as an example to describe a "survive, locate, operate, and terminate" (SLOT) mission of a nanomotor, where it must 1) survive in the unfriendly in vivo environment, 2) locate its target as well as be located by human operators, 3) carry out specific operations, and 4) terminate after the mission is completed. Along this journey, the challenges presented to a nanomotor, including to power, navigate, steer, target, release, control, image, and communicate are discussed, and how state-of-the-art nanomotors meet or fall short of these requirements is critically reviewed. These discussions are then condensed into a table for easy reference. In particular, it is argued that chemically powered nanomotors are intrinsically ill-positioned for targeted cancer therapy, while nanomotors powered by magnetic fields or ultrasound show more promises. Following this argument, a tentative nanomotor design is then presented in the end to conform to the SLOT guideline, and to inspire practical, functional nanorobots that are yet to come.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Wang
- School of Materials Science and Engineering Harbin Institute of Technology (Shenzhen) Shenzhen 518055 China
| | - Chao Zhou
- School of Materials Science and Engineering Harbin Institute of Technology (Shenzhen) Shenzhen 518055 China
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40
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Wang B, Kostarelos K, Nelson BJ, Zhang L. Trends in Micro-/Nanorobotics: Materials Development, Actuation, Localization, and System Integration for Biomedical Applications. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2021; 33:e2002047. [PMID: 33617105 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202002047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 177] [Impact Index Per Article: 59.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2020] [Revised: 08/24/2020] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
Micro-/nanorobots (m-bots) have attracted significant interest due to their suitability for applications in biomedical engineering and environmental remediation. Particularly, their applications in in vivo diagnosis and intervention have been the focus of extensive research in recent years with various clinical imaging techniques being applied for localization and tracking. The successful integration of well-designed m-bots with surface functionalization, remote actuation systems, and imaging techniques becomes the crucial step toward biomedical applications, especially for the in vivo uses. This review thus addresses four different aspects of biomedical m-bots: design/fabrication, functionalization, actuation, and localization. The biomedical applications of the m-bots in diagnosis, sensing, microsurgery, targeted drug/cell delivery, thrombus ablation, and wound healing are reviewed from these viewpoints. The developed biomedical m-bot systems are comprehensively compared and evaluated based on their characteristics. The current challenges and the directions of future research in this field are summarized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ben Wang
- Department of Mechanical and Automation Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin N.T., Hong Kong, China
- College of Chemistry and Environmental Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518060, China
| | - Kostas Kostarelos
- Nanomedicine Lab, Faculty of Biology, Medicine & Health, The University of Manchester, AV Hill Building, Manchester, M13 9PT, UK
- Catalan Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (ICN2), Campus UAB, Bellaterra, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Bradley J Nelson
- Institute of Robotics and Intelligent Systems (IRIS), ETH Zurich, Tannenstrasse 3, Zurich, CH-8092, Switzerland
| | - Li Zhang
- Department of Mechanical and Automation Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin N.T., Hong Kong, China
- CUHK T Stone Robotics Institute, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin N.T., Hong Kong, China
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41
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Schmidt CK, Medina-Sánchez M, Edmondson RJ, Schmidt OG. Engineering microrobots for targeted cancer therapies from a medical perspective. Nat Commun 2020; 11:5618. [PMID: 33154372 PMCID: PMC7645678 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-020-19322-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 171] [Impact Index Per Article: 42.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2020] [Accepted: 10/09/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Systemic chemotherapy remains the backbone of many cancer treatments. Due to its untargeted nature and the severe side effects it can cause, numerous nanomedicine approaches have been developed to overcome these issues. However, targeted delivery of therapeutics remains challenging. Engineering microrobots is increasingly receiving attention in this regard. Their functionalities, particularly their motility, allow microrobots to penetrate tissues and reach cancers more efficiently. Here, we highlight how different microrobots, ranging from tailor-made motile bacteria and tiny bubble-propelled microengines to hybrid spermbots, can be engineered to integrate sophisticated features optimised for precision-targeting of a wide range of cancers. Towards this, we highlight the importance of integrating clinicians, the public and cancer patients early on in the development of these novel technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine K Schmidt
- Manchester Cancer Research Centre, Division of Cancer Sciences, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, 555 Wilmslow Road, Manchester, M20 4GJ, UK.
| | - Mariana Medina-Sánchez
- Institute for Integrative Nanosciences, Leibniz IFW Dresden, Helmholtzstraße 20, 01069, Dresden, Germany.
| | - Richard J Edmondson
- Gynaecological Oncology, Division of Cancer Sciences, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
- St. Mary's Hospital, Central Manchester NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Level 5, Research Floor, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9WL, UK
| | - Oliver G Schmidt
- Institute for Integrative Nanosciences, Leibniz IFW Dresden, Helmholtzstraße 20, 01069, Dresden, Germany.
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42
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Mohanty S, Khalil ISM, Misra S. Contactless acoustic micro/nano manipulation: a paradigm for next generation applications in life sciences. Proc Math Phys Eng Sci 2020; 476:20200621. [PMID: 33363443 PMCID: PMC7735305 DOI: 10.1098/rspa.2020.0621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2020] [Accepted: 10/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Acoustic actuation techniques offer a promising tool for contactless manipulation of both synthetic and biological micro/nano agents that encompass different length scales. The traditional usage of sound waves has steadily progressed from mid-air manipulation of salt grains to sophisticated techniques that employ nanoparticle flow in microfluidic networks. State-of-the-art in microfabrication and instrumentation have further expanded the outreach of these actuation techniques to autonomous propulsion of micro-agents. In this review article, we provide a universal perspective of the known acoustic micromanipulation technologies in terms of their applications and governing physics. Hereby, we survey these technologies and classify them with regards to passive and active manipulation of agents. These manipulation methods account for both intelligent devices adept at dexterous non-contact handling of micro-agents, and acoustically induced mechanisms for self-propulsion of micro-robots. Moreover, owing to the clinical compliance of ultrasound, we provide future considerations of acoustic manipulation techniques to be fruitfully employed in biological applications that range from label-free drug testing to minimally invasive clinical interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sumit Mohanty
- Surgical Robotics Laboratory, Department of Biomechanical Engineering, University of Twente, 7522 NB Enschede, The Netherlands
| | - Islam S. M. Khalil
- Surgical Robotics Laboratory, Department of Biomechanical Engineering, University of Twente, 7522 NB Enschede, The Netherlands
| | - Sarthak Misra
- Surgical Robotics Laboratory, Department of Biomechanical Engineering, University of Twente, 7522 NB Enschede, The Netherlands
- Surgical Robotics Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Engineering, University Medical Center Groningen, 9713 AV Groningen, The Netherlands
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43
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Luan J, Wang D, Wilson DA. Leveraging synthetic particles for communication: from passive to active systems. NANOSCALE 2020; 12:21015-21033. [PMID: 33073819 DOI: 10.1039/d0nr05675h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Communication is one of the most remarkable behaviors in the living world. It is an important prerequisite for building an artificial cell which can be considered as alive. Achieving complex communicative behaviors leveraging synthetic particles will likely fill the gap between artificial vesicles and natural counterpart of cells and allow for the discovery of new therapies in medicine. In this review, we highlight recent endeavors for constructing communication with synthetic particles by revealing the principles underlying the communicative behaviors. Emergent progress using active particles to achieve communication is also discussed, which resembles the dynamic and out-of-equilibrium properties of communication in nature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiabin Luan
- Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
| | - Danni Wang
- Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
| | - Daniela A Wilson
- Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
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44
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Xing Y, Du X, Xu T, Zhang X. Janus dendritic silica/carbon@Pt nanomotors with multiengines for H 2O 2, near-infrared light and lipase powered propulsion. SOFT MATTER 2020; 16:9553-9558. [PMID: 32969461 DOI: 10.1039/d0sm01355b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Hybrid micro/nanomotors with multiple distinct propulsion modes are expected to improve their motion ability in complex body fluids. Herein, we report a multi-stimuli propelled Janus lipase-modified dendritic silica/carbon@Pt (DMS/C@Pt) nanomotor with built-in engines for hybrid propulsions of H2O2, light, and enzyme. The enhanced motion of the DMS/C@Pt nanomotor is achieved under the stimulus of H2O2 that produces an oxygen concentration gradient derived from the asymmetric catalysis of Pt nanoparticles. Irradiated with near-infrared (NIR) light, the uneven photothermal effect of the carbon part propels this nanomotor by self-thermophoresis. Besides, lipase is efficiently loaded into the dendritic pores, which decomposes triglyceride on the silica part and induces self-diffusiophoretic propulsion. These multiple propulsions shed light on the rational integration of various functional building blocks into one micro/nanomotor for complex tasks in biomedical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Xing
- Research Center for Bioengineering and Sensing Technology, Beijing Key Laboratory for Bioengineering and Sensing Technology, Department of Chemistry & Biological Engineering, University of Science & Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China.
| | - Xin Du
- Research Center for Bioengineering and Sensing Technology, Beijing Key Laboratory for Bioengineering and Sensing Technology, Department of Chemistry & Biological Engineering, University of Science & Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China.
| | - Tailin Xu
- Research Center for Bioengineering and Sensing Technology, Beijing Key Laboratory for Bioengineering and Sensing Technology, Department of Chemistry & Biological Engineering, University of Science & Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China.
| | - Xueji Zhang
- Research Center for Bioengineering and Sensing Technology, Beijing Key Laboratory for Bioengineering and Sensing Technology, Department of Chemistry & Biological Engineering, University of Science & Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China.
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45
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Voß J, Wittkowski R. On the shape-dependent propulsion of nano- and microparticles by traveling ultrasound waves. NANOSCALE ADVANCES 2020; 2:3890-3899. [PMID: 36132771 PMCID: PMC9417689 DOI: 10.1039/d0na00099j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2020] [Accepted: 07/20/2020] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
We address the propulsion mechanism of ultrasound-propelled nano- and microparticles that are exposed to a traveling ultrasound wave. Based on direct computational fluid dynamics simulations, we study the effect of two important aspects of the particle shape on the propulsion: rounded vs. pointed and filled vs. hollow shapes. We also study the flow field generated around such particles. Our results reveal that pointedness leads to an increase of the propulsion speed, whereas it is not significantly affected by hollowness. Furthermore, we show that the flow field near to ultrasound-propelled particles can look similar to the flow field generated by pusher squirmers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johannes Voß
- Institut für Theoretische Physik, Center for Soft Nanoscience, Westfälische Wilhelms-Universität Münster D-48149 Münster Germany
| | - Raphael Wittkowski
- Institut für Theoretische Physik, Center for Soft Nanoscience, Westfälische Wilhelms-Universität Münster D-48149 Münster Germany
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46
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Xing Y, Zhou M, Xu T, Tang S, Fu Y, Du X, Su L, Wen Y, Zhang X, Ma T. Core@Satellite Janus Nanomotors with pH‐Responsive Multi‐phoretic Propulsion. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2020. [DOI: 10.1002/ange.202006421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Yi Xing
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Bioengineering and Sensing Technology Department of Chemistry & Biological Engineering University of Science & Technology Beijing Beijing 100083 China
| | - Mengyun Zhou
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Bioengineering and Sensing Technology Department of Chemistry & Biological Engineering University of Science & Technology Beijing Beijing 100083 China
| | - Tailin Xu
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Bioengineering and Sensing Technology Department of Chemistry & Biological Engineering University of Science & Technology Beijing Beijing 100083 China
| | - Songsong Tang
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Bioengineering and Sensing Technology Department of Chemistry & Biological Engineering University of Science & Technology Beijing Beijing 100083 China
| | - Yang Fu
- Discipline of Chemistry The University of Newcastle Callaghan NSW 2308 Australia
| | - Xin Du
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Bioengineering and Sensing Technology Department of Chemistry & Biological Engineering University of Science & Technology Beijing Beijing 100083 China
| | - Lei Su
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Bioengineering and Sensing Technology Department of Chemistry & Biological Engineering University of Science & Technology Beijing Beijing 100083 China
| | - Yongqiang Wen
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Bioengineering and Sensing Technology Department of Chemistry & Biological Engineering University of Science & Technology Beijing Beijing 100083 China
| | - Xueji Zhang
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Bioengineering and Sensing Technology Department of Chemistry & Biological Engineering University of Science & Technology Beijing Beijing 100083 China
| | - Tianyi Ma
- Discipline of Chemistry The University of Newcastle Callaghan NSW 2308 Australia
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47
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Xing Y, Zhou M, Xu T, Tang S, Fu Y, Du X, Su L, Wen Y, Zhang X, Ma T. Core@Satellite Janus Nanomotors with pH‐Responsive Multi‐phoretic Propulsion. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2020; 59:14368-14372. [DOI: 10.1002/anie.202006421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Yi Xing
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Bioengineering and Sensing Technology Department of Chemistry & Biological Engineering University of Science & Technology Beijing Beijing 100083 China
| | - Mengyun Zhou
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Bioengineering and Sensing Technology Department of Chemistry & Biological Engineering University of Science & Technology Beijing Beijing 100083 China
| | - Tailin Xu
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Bioengineering and Sensing Technology Department of Chemistry & Biological Engineering University of Science & Technology Beijing Beijing 100083 China
| | - Songsong Tang
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Bioengineering and Sensing Technology Department of Chemistry & Biological Engineering University of Science & Technology Beijing Beijing 100083 China
| | - Yang Fu
- Discipline of Chemistry The University of Newcastle Callaghan NSW 2308 Australia
| | - Xin Du
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Bioengineering and Sensing Technology Department of Chemistry & Biological Engineering University of Science & Technology Beijing Beijing 100083 China
| | - Lei Su
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Bioengineering and Sensing Technology Department of Chemistry & Biological Engineering University of Science & Technology Beijing Beijing 100083 China
| | - Yongqiang Wen
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Bioengineering and Sensing Technology Department of Chemistry & Biological Engineering University of Science & Technology Beijing Beijing 100083 China
| | - Xueji Zhang
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Bioengineering and Sensing Technology Department of Chemistry & Biological Engineering University of Science & Technology Beijing Beijing 100083 China
| | - Tianyi Ma
- Discipline of Chemistry The University of Newcastle Callaghan NSW 2308 Australia
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48
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McNeill JM, Nama N, Braxton JM, Mallouk TE. Wafer-Scale Fabrication of Micro- to Nanoscale Bubble Swimmers and Their Fast Autonomous Propulsion by Ultrasound. ACS NANO 2020; 14:7520-7528. [PMID: 32432850 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.0c03311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Fuel-free, biocompatible swimmers with dimensions smaller than one micrometer have the potential to revolutionize the way we study and manipulate microscopic systems. Sub-micrometer, metallic Janus particles can be propelled rapidly and autonomously by acoustically induced fluid streaming, but their operation at acoustic pressure nodes limits their utility. In contrast, bubble-based microswimmers have an "on board" resonant cavity that enables them to operate far from the source of acoustic power. So far, they have been fabricated by direct writing techniques that limit both their minimum dimensions and the number that can be produced. Consequently, the size scaling of the properties of bubble swimmers has not been explored experimentally. Additionally, 3D autonomous motion has not yet been demonstrated for this type of swimmer. We describe here a method for fabricating bubble swimmers in large numbers (>109) with sizes ranging from 5 μm to 500 nm without direct writing or photolithographic tools. These swimmers follow a previously proposed scaling theory and reveal useful phenomena that enable their propulsion in different modes in the same experiment: with magnetic steering, autonomously in 3D, and in frequency-specific autonomous modes. These interesting behaviors are relevant to possible applications of autonomously moving micro- and nanorobots.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey M McNeill
- Department of Chemistry, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, United States
| | - Nitesh Nama
- Department of Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Jesse M Braxton
- Department of Chemistry, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, United States
| | - Thomas E Mallouk
- Department of Chemistry, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, United States
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49
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Lv H, Xing Y, Du X, Xu T, Zhang X. Construction of dendritic Janus nanomotors with H 2O 2 and NIR light dual-propulsion via a Pickering emulsion. SOFT MATTER 2020; 16:4961-4968. [PMID: 32432292 DOI: 10.1039/d0sm00552e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Artificial micro/nanomotors with a dual-propulsion property have attracted considerable attention recently due to their attractive performances in complex fluidic environments. In this work, we successfully constructed Janus nanomotors with H2O2 and NIR light dual-propulsion by employing dendritic porous silica nanoparticles (DPSNs) as carriers via a Pickering emulsion and electrostatic self-assembly. The aminopropyl-modified DPSNs (DPSNs-NH2) with positive charge were semiburied in paraffin wax microparticles in order to achieve electrostatic adsorption of Pt nanoparticles (NPs) with negative charge on the exposed surface for H2O2 propulsion, followed by electrostatic adsorption of negatively charged CuS NPs with excellent NIR light absorption on the other exposed surface of the eluted DPSNs-NH2@Pt for NIR light propulsion. Center-radial large mesopores facilitate the high density loading of Pt NPs and CuS NPs for efficient propulsion. Compared with the commonly used sputtering approach, this Pickering emulsion method can realize relatively large-scale fabrication of Janus NPs. DPSNs-NH2@Pt@CuS Janus nanomotors can be effectively driven not only by self-diffusiophoresis, which results from the decomposition of H2O2 catalyzed by Pt NPs, but also by self-thermophoresis, which is generated from thermal gradients caused by the photothermal effect of CuS NPs. Moreover, the motion speed of the nanomotors can be conveniently modulated by regulating the H2O2 concentration and NIR light intensity. This work provides a novel exploration into the construction of dual-propulsion nanomotors, which are supposed to have significant potential in biomedical and intelligent device applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haozheng Lv
- Research Center for Bioengineering and Sensing Technology, Beijing Key Laboratory for Bioengineering and Sensing Technology, Department of Chemistry & Biological Engineering, University of Science & Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, P. R. China.
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50
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Tertis M, Cernat A, Mirel S, Cristea C. Nanodevices for Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Applications. ANAL LETT 2020. [DOI: 10.1080/00032719.2020.1728292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Mihaela Tertis
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Iuliu Hatieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Andreea Cernat
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Iuliu Hatieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Simona Mirel
- Department of Medical Devices, Faculty of Pharmacy, Iuliu Hatieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Cecilia Cristea
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Iuliu Hatieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
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