1
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He T, Yang Y, Chen XB. Propulsion mechanisms of micro/nanorobots: a review. NANOSCALE 2024. [PMID: 38940742 DOI: 10.1039/d4nr01776e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/29/2024]
Abstract
Micro/nanomotors (MNMs) are intelligent, efficient and promising micro/nanorobots (MNR) that can respond to external stimuli (e.g., chemical energy, temperature, light, pH, ultrasound, magnetic, biosignals, ions) and perform specific tasks. The MNR can adapt to different external stimuli and transform into various functional forms to match different application scenarios. So far, MNR have found extensive application in targeted therapy, drug delivery, tissue engineering, environmental remediation, and other fields. Despite the promise of MNR, there are few reviews that focus on them. To shed new light on the further development of the field, it is necessary to provide an overview of the current state of development of these MNR. Therefore, this paper reviews the research progress of MNR in terms of propulsion mechanisms, and points out the pros and cons of different stimulus types. Finally, this paper highlights the current challenges faced by MNR and proposes possible solutions to facilitate the practical application of MNR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao He
- School of Electronic and Information Engineering, University of Science and Technology Liaoning, Anshan 114051, China.
| | - Yonghui Yang
- School of Electronic and Information Engineering, University of Science and Technology Liaoning, Anshan 114051, China.
| | - Xue-Bo Chen
- School of Electronic and Information Engineering, University of Science and Technology Liaoning, Anshan 114051, China.
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2
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Richter M, Venkiteswaran VK, de Vries JP, Misra S. APOLLO: advanced magnetic probes for minimally invasive endovascular interventions. Eur Heart J 2024:ehae155. [PMID: 38917048 DOI: 10.1093/eurheartj/ehae155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/27/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Michiel Richter
- Surgical Robotics Laboratory, Department of Biomechanical Engineering, University of Twente, Drienerlolaan 5, 7522 NB Enschede, The Netherlands
| | | | - Jean-Paul de Vries
- Department of Surgery, Division of Vascular Surgery, University Medical Centre Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Sarthak Misra
- Surgical Robotics Laboratory, Department of Biomechanical Engineering, University of Twente, Drienerlolaan 5, 7522 NB Enschede, The Netherlands
- Surgical Robotics Laboratory, Department of Biomaterials and Biomedical Technology, University of Groningen and University Medical Centre Groningen, Antonius Deusinglaan 1, Building 3215, 9713 AV Groningen, The Netherlands
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3
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Yibibulla T, Hou L, Mead JL, Huang H, Fatikow S, Wang S. Frictional behavior of one-dimensional materials: an experimental perspective. NANOSCALE ADVANCES 2024; 6:3251-3284. [PMID: 38933866 PMCID: PMC11197433 DOI: 10.1039/d4na00039k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2024] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
The frictional behavior of one-dimensional (1D) materials, including nanotubes, nanowires, and nanofibers, significantly influences the efficient fabrication, functionality, and reliability of innovative devices integrating 1D components. Such devices comprise piezoelectric and triboelectric nanogenerators, biosensing and implantable devices, along with biomimetic adhesives based on 1D arrays. This review compiles and critically assesses recent experimental techniques for exploring the frictional behavior of 1D materials. Specifically, it underscores various measurement methods and technologies employing atomic force microscopy, electron microscopy, and optical microscopy nanomanipulation. The emphasis is on their primary applications and challenges in measuring and characterizing the frictional behavior of 1D materials. Additionally, we discuss key accomplishments over the past two decades in comprehending the frictional behaviors of 1D materials, with a focus on factors such as materials combination, interface roughness, environmental humidity, and non-uniformity. Finally, we offer a brief perspective on ongoing challenges and future directions, encompassing the systematic investigation of the testing environment and conditions, as well as the modification of surface friction through surface alterations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tursunay Yibibulla
- School of Physics, Central South University Changsha 410083 P. R. China
- School of Physics and Electronics, Nanning Normal University Nanning 530001 P. R. China
| | - Lizhen Hou
- School of Physics and Electronics, Hunan Normal University Changsha 410083 P. R. China
| | - James L Mead
- Division Microrobotics and Control Engineering, Department of Computing Science, University of Oldenburg D-26129 Oldenburg Germany
| | - Han Huang
- School of Advanced Manufacturing, Sun-Yat-sen University Shenzhen 518107 P. R. China
| | - Sergej Fatikow
- Division Microrobotics and Control Engineering, Department of Computing Science, University of Oldenburg D-26129 Oldenburg Germany
| | - Shiliang Wang
- School of Physics, Central South University Changsha 410083 P. R. China
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4
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Yan C, Feng K, Bao B, Chen J, Xu X, Jiang G, Wang Y, Guo J, Jiang T, Kang Y, Wang C, Li C, Zhang C, Nie P, Liu S, Machens HG, Zhu L, Yang X, Niu R, Chen Z. Biohybrid Nanorobots Carrying Glycoengineered Extracellular Vesicles Promote Diabetic Wound Repair through Dual-Enhanced Cell and Tissue Penetration. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024:e2404456. [PMID: 38894569 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202404456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2024] [Revised: 05/18/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
Considerable progress has been made in the development of drug delivery systems for diabetic wounds. However, underlying drawbacks, such as low delivery efficiency and poor tissue permeability, have rarely been addressed. In this study, a multifunctional biohybrid nanorobot platform comprising an artificial unit and several biological components is constructed. The artificial unit is a magnetically driven nanorobot surface modified with antibacterial 2-hydroxypropyltrimethyl ammonium chloride chitosan, which enables the entire platform to move and has excellent tissue penetration capacity. The biological components are two-step engineered extracellular vesicles that are first loaded with mangiferin, a natural polyphenolic compound with antioxidant properties, and then glycoengineered on the surface to enhance cellular uptake efficiency. As expected, the platform is more easily absorbed by endothelial cells and fibroblasts and exhibits outstanding dermal penetration performance and antioxidant properties. Encouraging results are also observed in infected diabetic wound models, showing improved wound re-epithelialization, collagen deposition, angiogenesis, and accelerated wound healing. Collectively, a biohybrid nanorobot platform that possesses the functionalities of both artificial units and biological components serves as an efficient delivery system to promote diabetic wound repair through dual-enhanced cell and tissue penetration and multistep interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chengqi Yan
- Department of Hand Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Kai Feng
- Key Laboratory of Material Chemistry for Energy Conversion and Storage, Ministry of Education, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430074, China
| | - Bingkun Bao
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China
| | - Jing Chen
- Department of Dermatology, Wuhan No.1 Hospital, Wuhan, Hubei, 430022, China
| | - Xiang Xu
- Department of Hand Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Guoyong Jiang
- Department of Hand Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Yufeng Wang
- Department of Hand Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Jiahe Guo
- Department of Hand Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Tao Jiang
- Department of Hand Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Yu Kang
- Department of Hand Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Cheng Wang
- Department of Hand Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Chengcheng Li
- Department of Hand Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Chi Zhang
- Department of Hand Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Pengjuan Nie
- Department of Hand Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Shuoyuan Liu
- Department of Hand Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Hans-Günther Machens
- Department of Plastic and Hand Surgery, Technical University of Munich, D-80333, Munich, Germany
| | - Linyong Zhu
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China
| | - Xiaofan Yang
- Department of Hand Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Ran Niu
- Key Laboratory of Material Chemistry for Energy Conversion and Storage, Ministry of Education, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430074, China
| | - Zhenbing Chen
- Department of Hand Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
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Cao C, Mou F, Yang M, Zhang S, Zhang D, Li L, Lan T, Xiao D, Luo W, Ma H, Guan J. Harnessing Disparities in Magnetic Microswarms: From Construction to Collaborative Tasks. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024:e2401711. [PMID: 38868929 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202401711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2024] [Revised: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024]
Abstract
Individual differences in size, experience, and task specialization in natural swarms often result in heterogeneity and hierarchy, facilitating efficient and coordinated task accomplishment. Drawing inspiration from this phenomenon, a general strategy is proposed for organizing magnetic micro/nanorobots (MNRs) with apparent differences in size, shape, and properties into cohesive microswarms with tunable heterogeneity, controlled spatial hierarchy, and collaborative tasking capability. In this strategy, disparate magnetic MNRs can be manipulated to show reversible transitions between synchronization and desynchronization by elaborately regulating parameter sets of the rotating magnetic field. Utilizing these transitions, alongside local robust hydrodynamic interactions, diverse heterospecific pairings of disparate magnetic MNRs can be organized into heterogeneous microswarms, and their spatial organization can be dynamically adjusted from egalitarian to leader-follower-like hierarchies on the fly, both in open space and complex microchannels. Furthermore, when specializing the disparate MNRs with distinct functions ("division of labor") such as sensing and drug carrying, they can execute precise drug delivery targeting unknown sites in a collaborative sensing-navigating-cargo dropping sequence, demonstrating significant potential for precise tumor treatment. These findings highlight the critical roles of attribute differences and hierarchical organization in designing efficient swarming micro/nanorobots for biomedical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chuan Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Advanced Technology for Materials Synthesis and Processing International School of Materials Science and Engineering, Wuhan University of Technology, 122 Luoshi Road, Wuhan, 430070, P. R. China
| | - Fangzhi Mou
- State Key Laboratory of Advanced Technology for Materials Synthesis and Processing International School of Materials Science and Engineering, Wuhan University of Technology, 122 Luoshi Road, Wuhan, 430070, P. R. China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Nanomedicine for Neurodegenerative Diseases, Wuhan University of Technology, 122 Luoshi Road, Wuhan, 430070, P. R. China
| | - Manyi Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Advanced Technology for Materials Synthesis and Processing International School of Materials Science and Engineering, Wuhan University of Technology, 122 Luoshi Road, Wuhan, 430070, P. R. China
| | - Shuming Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Advanced Technology for Materials Synthesis and Processing International School of Materials Science and Engineering, Wuhan University of Technology, 122 Luoshi Road, Wuhan, 430070, P. R. China
| | - Di Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Advanced Technology for Materials Synthesis and Processing International School of Materials Science and Engineering, Wuhan University of Technology, 122 Luoshi Road, Wuhan, 430070, P. R. China
| | - Luolin Li
- State Key Laboratory of Advanced Technology for Materials Synthesis and Processing International School of Materials Science and Engineering, Wuhan University of Technology, 122 Luoshi Road, Wuhan, 430070, P. R. China
| | - Tong Lan
- State Key Laboratory of Advanced Technology for Materials Synthesis and Processing International School of Materials Science and Engineering, Wuhan University of Technology, 122 Luoshi Road, Wuhan, 430070, P. R. China
| | - Dunyi Xiao
- State Key Laboratory of Advanced Technology for Materials Synthesis and Processing International School of Materials Science and Engineering, Wuhan University of Technology, 122 Luoshi Road, Wuhan, 430070, P. R. China
| | - Wei Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Advanced Technology for Materials Synthesis and Processing International School of Materials Science and Engineering, Wuhan University of Technology, 122 Luoshi Road, Wuhan, 430070, P. R. China
- Wuhan Institute of Photochemistry and Technology, 7 North Bingang Road, Wuhan, 430083, P. R. China
| | - Huiru Ma
- Wuhan Institute of Photochemistry and Technology, 7 North Bingang Road, Wuhan, 430083, P. R. China
- School of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Life Science, Wuhan University of Technology, 122 Luoshi Road, Wuhan, 430070, P. R. China
| | - Jianguo Guan
- State Key Laboratory of Advanced Technology for Materials Synthesis and Processing International School of Materials Science and Engineering, Wuhan University of Technology, 122 Luoshi Road, Wuhan, 430070, P. R. China
- School of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Life Science, Wuhan University of Technology, 122 Luoshi Road, Wuhan, 430070, P. R. China
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6
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Mu Y, Tran HH, Xiang Z, Majumder A, Hsu E, Steager E, Koo H, Lee D. Spiky Magnetic Microparticles Synthesized from Microrod-Stabilized Pickering Emulsion. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2024:e2402292. [PMID: 38864236 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202402292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2024] [Revised: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/13/2024]
Abstract
Tailoring the microstructure of magnetic microparticles is of vital importance for their applications. Spiky magnetic particles, such as those made from sunflower pollens, have shown promise in single cell treatment and biofilm removal. Synthetic methods that can replicate or extend the functionality of such spiky particles would be advantageous for their widespread utilization. In this work, a wet-chemical method is introduced for spiky magnetic particles that are templated from microrod-stabilized Pickering emulsions. The spiky morphology is generated by the upright attachment of silica microrods at the oil-water interface of oil droplets. Spiky magnetic microparticles with control over the length of the spikes are obtained by dispersing hydrophobic magnetic nanoparticles in the oil phase and photopolymerizing the monomer. The spiky morphology dramatically enhances colloidal stability of these particles in high ionic strength solutions and physiologic media such as human saliva and saline-based biofilm suspension. To demonstrate their utility, the spiky magnetic particles are applied for magnetically controlled removal of oral biofilms and retrieval of bacteria for diagnostic sampling. This method expands the toolbox for engineering microparticle morphology and could promote the fabrication of functional magnetic microrobots.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yijiang Mu
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Hong-Huy Tran
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
- School of Dental Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Zhenting Xiang
- School of Dental Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Anirban Majumder
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Emery Hsu
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Edward Steager
- School of Dental Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Hyun Koo
- School of Dental Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Daeyeon Lee
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
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7
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Zhang L, Xing S, Yin H, Weisbecker H, Tran HT, Guo Z, Han T, Wang Y, Liu Y, Wu Y, Xie W, Huang C, Luo W, Demaesschalck M, McKinney C, Hankley S, Huang A, Brusseau B, Messenger J, Zou Y, Bai W. Skin-inspired, sensory robots for electronic implants. Nat Commun 2024; 15:4777. [PMID: 38839748 PMCID: PMC11153219 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-48903-z] [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: 12/13/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Drawing inspiration from cohesive integration of skeletal muscles and sensory skins in vertebrate animals, we present a design strategy of soft robots, primarily consisting of an electronic skin (e-skin) and an artificial muscle. These robots integrate multifunctional sensing and on-demand actuation into a biocompatible platform using an in-situ solution-based method. They feature biomimetic designs that enable adaptive motions and stress-free contact with tissues, supported by a battery-free wireless module for untethered operation. Demonstrations range from a robotic cuff for detecting blood pressure, to a robotic gripper for tracking bladder volume, an ingestible robot for pH sensing and on-site drug delivery, and a robotic patch for quantifying cardiac function and delivering electrotherapy, highlighting the application versatilities and potentials of the bio-inspired soft robots. Our designs establish a universal strategy with a broad range of sensing and responsive materials, to form integrated soft robots for medical technology and beyond.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Zhang
- Department of Applied Physical Sciences, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, 27514, USA
| | - Sicheng Xing
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, 27514, USA
| | - Haifeng Yin
- MCAllister Heart Institute Core, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, 27514, USA
| | - Hannah Weisbecker
- Department of Biology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, 27514, USA
| | - Hiep Thanh Tran
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, 27514, USA
| | - Ziheng Guo
- Department of Chemistry, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, 27514, USA
| | - Tianhong Han
- Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, 27606, USA
| | - Yihang Wang
- Department of Applied Physical Sciences, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, 27514, USA
| | - Yihan Liu
- Department of Applied Physical Sciences, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, 27514, USA
| | - Yizhang Wu
- Department of Applied Physical Sciences, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, 27514, USA
| | - Wanrong Xie
- Department of Applied Physical Sciences, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, 27514, USA
| | - Chuqi Huang
- Department of Applied Physical Sciences, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, 27514, USA
| | - Wei Luo
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, 27514, USA
| | | | - Collin McKinney
- Department of Chemistry, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, 27514, USA
| | - Samuel Hankley
- Department of Chemistry, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, 27514, USA
| | - Amber Huang
- Department of Biology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, 27514, USA
| | - Brynn Brusseau
- Department of Biology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, 27514, USA
| | - Jett Messenger
- Weldon School of Biomedical Engineering, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, 47907, USA
| | - Yici Zou
- Department of Biology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, 27514, USA
| | - Wubin Bai
- Department of Applied Physical Sciences, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, 27514, USA.
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8
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Shukla AK, Bhandari S, Mitra S, Kim B, Dey KK. Buoyancy-Driven Micro/-Nanomotors: From Fundamentals to Applications. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2024; 20:e2308580. [PMID: 38225699 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202308580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2023] [Revised: 12/30/2023] [Indexed: 01/17/2024]
Abstract
The progression of self-powered micro/-nanomotors (MNMs) has rapidly evolved over the past few decades, showing applications in various fields such as nanotechnology, biomedical engineering, microfluidics, environmental science, and energy harvesting. Miniaturized MNMs transduce chemical/biochemical energies into mechanical motion for navigating through complex fluidic environments with directional control via external forces fields such as magnetic, photonic, and electric stimuli. Among various propulsion mechanisms, buoyancy-driven MNMs have received noteworthy recognition due to their simplicity, efficiency, and versatility. Buoyancy force-driven motors harness the principles of density variation-mediated force to overcome fluidic resistance to navigate through complex environments. Restricting the propulsion in one direction helps to control directional movement, making it more efficient in isotropic solutions. The changes in pH, ionic strength, chemical concentration, solute gradients, or the presence of specific molecules can influence the motion of buoyancy-driven MNMs as evidenced by earlier reports. This review aims to provide a fundamental and detailed analysis of the current state-of-the-art in buoyancy-driven MNMs, aiming to inspire further research and innovation in this promising field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashish Kumar Shukla
- Laboratory of Soft and Living Materials, Department of Physics, Indian Institute of Technology, Palaj, Gandhinagar, Gujarat, 382055, India
- School of Mechatronics Engineering, Korea University of Technology and Education, Cheonan, Chungnam, 31253, Republic of Korea
| | - Satyapriya Bhandari
- Department of Chemistry, Kandi Raj College, University of Kalyani, Murshidabad, Kandi, West Bengal, 742137, India
| | - Shirsendu Mitra
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Pandit Deendayal Energy University, Gandhinagar, Gujarat, 382007, India
| | - Byungki Kim
- School of Mechatronics Engineering, Korea University of Technology and Education, Cheonan, Chungnam, 31253, Republic of Korea
- Future Convergence Engineering, Korea University of Technology and Education, Cheonan, Chungnam, 31253, Republic of Korea
| | - Krishna Kanti Dey
- Laboratory of Soft and Living Materials, Department of Physics, Indian Institute of Technology, Palaj, Gandhinagar, Gujarat, 382055, India
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9
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Lu L, Zhao H, Lu Y, Zhang Y, Wang X, Fan C, Li Z, Wu Z. Design and Control of the Magnetically Actuated Micro/Nanorobot Swarm toward Biomedical Applications. Adv Healthc Mater 2024; 13:e2400414. [PMID: 38412402 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202400414] [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: 02/02/2024] [Revised: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024]
Abstract
Recently, magnetically actuated micro/nanorobots hold extensive promises in biomedical applications due to their advantages of noninvasiveness, fuel-free operation, and programmable nature. While effectively promised in various fields such as targeted delivery, most past investigations are mainly displayed in magnetic control of individual micro/nanorobots. Facing practical medical use, the micro/nanorobots are required for the development of swarm control in a closed-loop control manner. This review outlines the recent developments in magnetic micro/nanorobot swarms, including their actuating fundamentals, designs, controls, and biomedical applications. The fundamental principles and interactions involved in the formation of magnetic micro/nanorobot swarms are discussed first. The recent advances in the design of artificial and biohybrid micro/nanorobot swarms, along with the control devices and methods used for swarm manipulation, are presented. Furthermore, biomedical applications that have the potential to achieve clinical application are introduced, such as imaging-guided therapy, targeted delivery, embolization, and biofilm eradication. By addressing the potential challenges discussed toward the end of this review, magnetic micro/nanorobot swarms hold promise for clinical treatments in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Lu
- School of Medicine and Health, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, 150001, China
| | - Hongqiao Zhao
- School of Medicine and Health, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, 150001, China
| | - Yucong Lu
- School of Medicine and Health, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, 150001, China
| | - Yuxuan Zhang
- School of Medicine and Health, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, 150001, China
| | - Xinran Wang
- School of Medicine and Health, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, 150001, China
| | - Chengjuan Fan
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150001, China
| | - Zesheng Li
- 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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10
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Mayorga-Burrezo P, Mayorga-Martinez CC, Kuchař M, Pumera M. Methamphetamine Removal from Aquatic Environments by Magnetic Microrobots with Cyclodextrin Chiral Recognition Elements. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2024; 20:e2306943. [PMID: 38239086 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202306943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2023] [Revised: 01/07/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024]
Abstract
The growing consumption of drugs of abuse together with the inefficiency of the current wastewater treatment plants toward their presence has resulted in an emergent class of pollutants. Thus, the development of alternative approaches to remediate this environmental threat is urgently needed. Microrobots, combining autonomous motion with great tunability for the development of specific tasks, have turned into promising candidates to take on the challenge. Here, hybrid urchin-like hematite (α-Fe2O3) microparticles carrying magnetite (Fe3O4) nanoparticles and surface functionalization with organic β-cyclodextrin (CD) molecules are prepared with the aim of on-the-fly encapsulation of illicit drugs into the linked CD cavities of moving microrobots. The resulting mag-CD microrobots are tested against methamphetamine (MA), proving their ability for the removal of this psychoactive substance. A dramatically enhanced capture of MA from water with active magnetically powered microrobots when compared with static passive CD-modified particles is demonstrated. This work shows the advantages of enhanced mass transfer provided by the externally controlled magnetic navigation in microrobots that together with the versatility of their design is an efficient strategy to clean polluted waters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula Mayorga-Burrezo
- Future Energy and Innovation Laboratory, Central European Institute of Technology, Brno University of Technology, Purkyňova 656/123, Brno, CZ-616 00, Czech Republic
| | - Carmen C Mayorga-Martinez
- Center for Advanced Functional Nanorobots, University of Chemistry and Technology Prague, Technická 5, Prague 6, 166 28, Czech Republic
| | - Martin Kuchař
- Forensic Laboratory of Biologically Active Substances, Department of Chemistry of Natural Compounds, University of Chemistry and Technology Prague, Technická 5, Prague 6, 166 28, Czech Republic
- Department of Experimental Neurobiology, National Institute of Mental Health, Topolová 748, Klecany, 250 67, Czech Republic
| | - Martin Pumera
- Future Energy and Innovation Laboratory, Central European Institute of Technology, Brno University of Technology, Purkyňova 656/123, Brno, CZ-616 00, Czech Republic
- Department of Medical Research, China Medical University Hospital, China Medical University, No. 91 Hsueh-Shih Road, Taichung, 40402, Taiwan
- Department of Paediatrics and Inherited Metabolic Disorders, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University Prague, Ke Karlovu 2, Prague, 128 08, Czech Republic
- Advanced Nanorobots & Multiscale Robotics Lab, Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, VSB - Technical University of Ostrava, 17 listopadu 2172/15, Ostrava, 70800, Czech Republic
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Yonsei University, 50 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, 03722, South Korea
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11
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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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12
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Zhang S, Mou F, Yu Z, Li L, Yang M, Zhang D, Ma H, Luo W, Li T, Guan J. Heterogeneous Sensor-Carrier Microswarms for Collaborative Precise Drug Delivery toward Unknown Targets with Localized Acidosis. NANO LETTERS 2024; 24:5958-5967. [PMID: 38738749 DOI: 10.1021/acs.nanolett.4c00162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/14/2024]
Abstract
Micro/nanorobots hold the potential to revolutionize biomedicine by executing diverse tasks in hard-to-reach biological environments. Nevertheless, achieving precise drug delivery to unknown disease sites using swarming micro/nanorobots remains a significant challenge. Here we develop a heterogeneous swarm comprising sensing microrobots (sensor-bots) and drug-carrying microrobots (carrier-bots) with collaborative tasking capabilities for precise drug delivery toward unknown sites. Leveraging robust interspecific hydrodynamic interactions, the sensor-bots and carrier-bots spontaneously synchronize and self-organize into stable heterogeneous microswarms. Given that the sensor-bots can create real-time pH maps employing pH-responsive structural-color changes and the doxorubicin-loaded carrier-bots exhibit selective adhesion to acidic targets via pH-responsive charge reversal, the sensor-carrier microswarm, when exploring unknown environments, can detect and localize uncharted acidic targets, guide itself to cover the area, and finally deploy therapeutic carrier-bots precisely there. This versatile platform holds promise for treating diseases with localized acidosis and inspires future theranostic microsystems with expandability, task flexibility, and high efficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuming Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Advanced Technology for Materials Synthesis and Processing, International School of Materials Science and Engineering, Wuhan University of Technology, Wuhan 430070, People's Republic of China
| | - Fangzhi Mou
- State Key Laboratory of Advanced Technology for Materials Synthesis and Processing, International School of Materials Science and Engineering, Wuhan University of Technology, Wuhan 430070, People's Republic of China
| | - Zheng Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Advanced Technology for Materials Synthesis and Processing, International School of Materials Science and Engineering, Wuhan University of Technology, Wuhan 430070, People's Republic of China
| | - Luolin Li
- State Key Laboratory of Advanced Technology for Materials Synthesis and Processing, International School of Materials Science and Engineering, Wuhan University of Technology, Wuhan 430070, People's Republic of China
| | - Manyi Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Advanced Technology for Materials Synthesis and Processing, International School of Materials Science and Engineering, Wuhan University of Technology, Wuhan 430070, People's Republic of China
| | - Di Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Advanced Technology for Materials Synthesis and Processing, International School of Materials Science and Engineering, Wuhan University of Technology, Wuhan 430070, People's Republic of China
| | - Huiru Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Advanced Technology for Materials Synthesis and Processing, International School of Materials Science and Engineering, Wuhan University of Technology, Wuhan 430070, People's Republic of China
- Wuhan Institute of Photochemistry and Technology, 7 North Bingang Road, Wuhan 430083, People's Republic of China
| | - Wei Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Advanced Technology for Materials Synthesis and Processing, International School of Materials Science and Engineering, Wuhan University of Technology, Wuhan 430070, People's Republic of China
- Wuhan Institute of Photochemistry and Technology, 7 North Bingang Road, Wuhan 430083, People's Republic of China
| | - Tianlong Li
- State Key Laboratory of Robotics and System, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, Heilongjiang 150001, People's Republic of China
| | - Jianguo Guan
- State Key Laboratory of Advanced Technology for Materials Synthesis and Processing, International School of Materials Science and Engineering, Wuhan University of Technology, Wuhan 430070, People's Republic of China
- Wuhan Institute of Photochemistry and Technology, 7 North Bingang Road, Wuhan 430083, People's Republic of China
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13
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Chen Y, Guo Y, Xie B, Jin F, Ma L, Zhang H, Li Y, Chen X, Hou M, Gao J, Liu H, Lu YJ, Wong CP, Zhao N. Lightweight and drift-free magnetically actuated millirobots via asymmetric laser-induced graphene. Nat Commun 2024; 15:4334. [PMID: 38773174 PMCID: PMC11109242 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-48751-x] [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: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Millirobots must have low cost, efficient locomotion, and the ability to track target trajectories precisely if they are to be widely deployed. With current materials and fabrication methods, achieving all of these features in one millirobot remains difficult. We develop a series of graphene-based helical millirobots by introducing asymmetric light pattern distortion to a laser-induced polymer-to-graphene conversion process; this distortion resulted in the spontaneous twisting and peeling off of graphene sheets from the polymer substrate. The lightweight nature of graphene in combine with the laser-induced porous microstructure provides a millirobot scaffold with a low density and high surface hydrophobicity. Magnetically driven nickel-coated graphene-based helical millirobots with rapid locomotion, excellent trajectory tracking, and precise drug delivery ability were fabricated from the scaffold. Importantly, such high-performance millirobots are fabricated at a speed of 77 scaffolds per second, demonstrating their potential in high-throughput and large-scale production. By using drug delivery for gastric cancer treatment as an example, we demonstrate the advantages of the graphene-based helical millirobots in terms of their long-distance locomotion and drug transport in a physiological environment. This study demonstrates the potential of the graphene-based helical millirobots to meet performance, versatility, scalability, and cost-effectiveness requirements simultaneously.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Precision Electronic Manufacturing Technology and Equipment, School of Electromechanical Engineering, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, PR China
| | - Yuanhui Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Precision Electronic Manufacturing Technology and Equipment, School of Electromechanical Engineering, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, PR China
| | - Bin Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Precision Electronic Manufacturing Technology and Equipment, School of Electromechanical Engineering, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, PR China
| | - Fujun Jin
- Institute of Natural Medicine and Green Chemistry, School of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, PR China
| | - Li Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Precision Electronic Manufacturing Technology and Equipment, School of Electromechanical Engineering, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, PR China
| | - Hao Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Precision Electronic Manufacturing Technology and Equipment, School of Electromechanical Engineering, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, PR China
| | - Yihao Li
- Department of Electronic Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong, China
| | - Xin Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Precision Electronic Manufacturing Technology and Equipment, School of Electromechanical Engineering, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, PR China.
| | - Maoxiang Hou
- State Key Laboratory of Precision Electronic Manufacturing Technology and Equipment, School of Electromechanical Engineering, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, PR China
| | - Jian Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Precision Electronic Manufacturing Technology and Equipment, School of Electromechanical Engineering, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, PR China
| | - Huilong Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Precision Electronic Manufacturing Technology and Equipment, School of Electromechanical Engineering, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, PR China
| | - Yu-Jing Lu
- Institute of Natural Medicine and Green Chemistry, School of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, PR China.
| | - Ching-Ping Wong
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, 30332, USA
| | - Ni Zhao
- Department of Electronic Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong, China.
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14
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Hu S, Meng F. Multiflagellate Swimming Controlled by Hydrodynamic Interactions. PHYSICAL REVIEW LETTERS 2024; 132:204002. [PMID: 38829103 DOI: 10.1103/physrevlett.132.204002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2023] [Revised: 02/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 06/05/2024]
Abstract
Many eukaryotic microorganisms propelled by multiple flagella can swim very rapidly with distinct gaits. Here, we model a three-dimensional mutiflagellate swimmer, resembling the microalgae. When the flagella are actuated synchronously, the swimming efficiency can be enhanced or reduced by interflagella hydrodynamic interactions (HIs), determined by the intrinsic tilting angle of the flagella. The asynchronous gait with a phase difference between neighboring flagella can reduce oscillatory motion via the basal mechanical coupling. In the presence of a spherical body, simulations taking into account the flagella-body interactions reveal the advantage of anterior configuration compared with posterior configuration, where in the latter case an optimal flagella number arises. Apart from understanding the role of HIs in the multiflagellate microorganisms, this work could also guide laboratory fabrications of novel microswimmers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiyuan Hu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Theoretical Physics, Institute of Theoretical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China
| | - Fanlong Meng
- CAS Key Laboratory of Theoretical Physics, Institute of Theoretical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China
- School of Physical Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, 19A Yuquan Road, Beijing 100049, China
- Wenzhou Institute, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325000, China
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15
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Zhu K, Gispert Contamina I, Ces O, Barter LMC, Hindley JW, Elani Y. Magnetic Modulation of Biochemical Synthesis in Synthetic Cells. J Am Chem Soc 2024; 146:13176-13182. [PMID: 38691505 PMCID: PMC11099998 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.4c00845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2024] [Revised: 03/19/2024] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/03/2024]
Abstract
Synthetic cells can be constructed from diverse molecular components, without the design constraints associated with modifying 'living' biological systems. This can be exploited to generate cells with abiotic components, creating functionalities absent in biology. One example is magnetic responsiveness, the activation and modulation of encapsulated biochemical processes using a magnetic field, which is absent from existing synthetic cell designs. This is a critical oversight, as magnetic fields are uniquely bio-orthogonal, noninvasive, and highly penetrative. Here, we address this by producing artificial magneto-responsive organelles by coupling thermoresponsive membranes with hyperthermic Fe3O4 nanoparticles and embedding them in synthetic cells. Combining these systems enables synthetic cell microreactors to be built using a nested vesicle architecture, which can respond to alternating magnetic fields through in situ enzymatic catalysis. We also demonstrate the modulation of biochemical reactions by using different magnetic field strengths and the potential to tune the system using different lipid compositions. This platform could unlock a wide range of applications for synthetic cells as programmable micromachines in biomedicine and biotechnology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen
K. Zhu
- Department
of Chemistry, Imperial College London, Molecular
Sciences Research Hub, White City, London W12
0BZ, U.K.
- Department
of Chemical Engineering, Imperial College
London, South Kensington, London SW7 2AZ, U.K.
- fabriCELL, Imperial
College London, Molecular Sciences Research
Hub, White City, London W12 0BZ, U.K.
- Institute
of Chemical Biology, Imperial College London,
Molecular Sciences Research Hub, White City, London W12
0BZ, U.K.
| | - Ignacio Gispert Contamina
- Department
of Chemical Engineering, Imperial College
London, South Kensington, London SW7 2AZ, U.K.
- fabriCELL, Imperial
College London, Molecular Sciences Research
Hub, White City, London W12 0BZ, U.K.
| | - Oscar Ces
- Department
of Chemistry, Imperial College London, Molecular
Sciences Research Hub, White City, London W12
0BZ, U.K.
- fabriCELL, Imperial
College London, Molecular Sciences Research
Hub, White City, London W12 0BZ, U.K.
- Institute
of Chemical Biology, Imperial College London,
Molecular Sciences Research Hub, White City, London W12
0BZ, U.K.
| | - Laura M. C. Barter
- Department
of Chemistry, Imperial College London, Molecular
Sciences Research Hub, White City, London W12
0BZ, U.K.
- Institute
of Chemical Biology, Imperial College London,
Molecular Sciences Research Hub, White City, London W12
0BZ, U.K.
| | - James W. Hindley
- Department
of Chemistry, Imperial College London, Molecular
Sciences Research Hub, White City, London W12
0BZ, U.K.
- fabriCELL, Imperial
College London, Molecular Sciences Research
Hub, White City, London W12 0BZ, U.K.
- Institute
of Chemical Biology, Imperial College London,
Molecular Sciences Research Hub, White City, London W12
0BZ, U.K.
| | - Yuval Elani
- Department
of Chemical Engineering, Imperial College
London, South Kensington, London SW7 2AZ, U.K.
- fabriCELL, Imperial
College London, Molecular Sciences Research
Hub, White City, London W12 0BZ, U.K.
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16
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Preetam S. Nano revolution: pioneering the future of water reclamation with micro-/nano-robots. NANOSCALE ADVANCES 2024; 6:2569-2581. [PMID: 38752135 PMCID: PMC11093266 DOI: 10.1039/d3na01106b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 03/05/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024]
Abstract
Earth's freshwater reserves are alarmingly limited, with less than 1% readily available. Factors such as industrialisation, population expansion, and climate change are compounding the scarcity of clean water. In this context, self-driven, programmable micro- and nano-scale synthetic robots offer a potential solution for enhancing water monitoring and remediation. With the aid of these innovative robots, diffusion-limited reactions can be overcome, allowing for active engagement with target pollutants, such as heavy metals, dyes, nano- and micro-plastics, oils, pathogenic microorganisms, and persistent organic pollutants. Herein, we introduced and reviewed recent influential and advanced studies on micro-/nano-robots (MNR) carried out over the past decade. Typical works are categorized by propulsion modes, analyzing their advantages and drawbacks in detail and looking at specific applications. Moreover, this review provides a concise overview of the contemporary advancements and applications of micro-/nano-robots in water-cleaning applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Subham Preetam
- Department of Robotics and Mechatronics Engineering, Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology Daegu-42988 South Korea
- Institute of Advanced Materials, IAAM Gammalkilsvägen 18 Ulrika 59053 Sweden
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17
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Mao M, Wu Y, He Q. Recent advances in targeted drug delivery for the treatment of glioblastoma. NANOSCALE 2024; 16:8689-8707. [PMID: 38606460 DOI: 10.1039/d4nr01056f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/13/2024]
Abstract
Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is one of the highly malignant brain tumors characterized by significant morbidity and mortality. Despite the recent advancements in the treatment of GBM, major challenges persist in achieving controlled drug delivery to tumors. The management of GBM poses considerable difficulties primarily due to unresolved issues in the blood-brain barrier (BBB)/blood-brain tumor barrier (BBTB) and GBM microenvironment. These factors limit the uptake of anti-cancer drugs by the tumor, thus limiting the therapeutic options. Current breakthroughs in nanotechnology provide new prospects concerning unconventional drug delivery approaches for GBM treatment. Specifically, swimming nanorobots show great potential in active targeted delivery, owing to their autonomous propulsion and improved navigation capacities across biological barriers, which further facilitate the development of GBM-targeted strategies. This review presents an overview of technological progress in different drug administration methods for GBM. Additionally, the limitations in clinical translation and future research prospects in this field are also discussed. This review aims to provide a comprehensive guideline for researchers and offer perspectives on further development of new drug delivery therapies to combat GBM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng Mao
- School of Medicine and Health, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, China.
| | - Yingjie Wu
- School of Medicine and Health, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, China.
| | - Qiang He
- School of Medicine and Health, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, China.
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18
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Patiño Padial T, Del Grosso E, Gentile S, Baranda Pellejero L, Mestre R, Paffen LJMM, Sánchez S, Ricci F. Synthetic DNA-based Swimmers Driven by Enzyme Catalysis. J Am Chem Soc 2024; 146:12664-12671. [PMID: 38587543 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.4c02094] [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: 04/09/2024]
Abstract
Here, we report DNA-based synthetic nanostructures decorated with enzymes (hereafter referred to as DNA-enzyme swimmers) that self-propel by converting the enzymatic substrate to the product in solution. The DNA-enzyme swimmers are obtained from tubular DNA structures that self-assemble spontaneously by the hybridization of DNA tiles. We functionalize these DNA structures with two different enzymes, urease and catalase, and show that they exhibit concentration-dependent movement and enhanced diffusion upon addition of the enzymatic substrate (i.e., urea and H2O2). To demonstrate the programmability of such DNA-based swimmers, we also engineer DNA strands that displace the enzyme from the DNA scaffold, thus acting as molecular "brakes" on the DNA swimmers. These results serve as a first proof of principle for the development of synthetic DNA-based enzyme-powered swimmers that can self-propel in fluids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tania Patiño Padial
- Department of Chemical Sciences and Technologies, University of Rome, Tor Vergata, Via della Ricerca Scientifica, 00133 Rome, Italy
- Biomedical Engineering Department, Institute for Complex Molecular Systems, Technische Universiteit Eindhoven, Het Kranenveld 14, 5612 AZ Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Erica Del Grosso
- Department of Chemical Sciences and Technologies, University of Rome, Tor Vergata, Via della Ricerca Scientifica, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Serena Gentile
- Department of Chemical Sciences and Technologies, University of Rome, Tor Vergata, Via della Ricerca Scientifica, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Lorena Baranda Pellejero
- Department of Chemical Sciences and Technologies, University of Rome, Tor Vergata, Via della Ricerca Scientifica, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Rafael Mestre
- School of Electronics and Computer Science (ECS), University of Southampton, University Road, Southampton SO17 1BJ, U.K
| | - Lars J M M Paffen
- Biomedical Engineering Department, Institute for Complex Molecular Systems, Technische Universiteit Eindhoven, Het Kranenveld 14, 5612 AZ Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Samuel Sánchez
- Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), Baldiri i Reixac 10-12, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
- Catalan Institute for Research and Advanced Studies (ICREA), Pg. Lluís Companys 23, Barcelona 08010, Spain
| | - Francesco Ricci
- Department of Chemical Sciences and Technologies, University of Rome, Tor Vergata, Via della Ricerca Scientifica, 00133 Rome, Italy
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19
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Yang K, Dong Q, Liu H, Wu L, Zong S, Wang Z. A MXene Hydrogel-Based Versatile Microrobot for Controllable Water Pollution Management. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024:e2309257. [PMID: 38704697 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202309257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 04/05/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024]
Abstract
The urgent demand for addressing dye contaminants in water necessitates the development of microrobots that exhibit remote navigation, rapid removal, and molecular identification capabilities. The progress of microrobot development is currently hindered by the scarcity of multifunctional materials. In this study, a plasmonic MXene hydrogel (PM-Gel) is synthesized by combining bimetallic nanocubes and Ti3C2Tx MXene through the rapid gelation of degradable alginate. The hydrogel can efficiently adsorb over 60% of dye contaminants within 2 min, ultimately achieving a removal rate of >90%. Meanwhile, the hydrogel exhibits excellent sensitivity in surface enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) detection, with a limit of detection (LOD) as low as 3.76 am. The properties of the plasmonic hydrogel can be further adjusted for various applications. As a proof-of-concept experiment, thermosensitive polymers and superparamagnetic particles are successfully integrated into this hydrogel to construct a versatile, light-responsive microrobot for dye contaminants. With magnetic and optical actuation, the robot can remotely sample, identify, and remove pollutants in maze-like channels. Moreover, light-driven hydrophilic-hydrophobic switch of the microrobots through photothermal effect can further enhance the adsorption capacity and reduced the dye residue by up to 58%. These findings indicate of a broad application potential in complex real-world environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kuo Yang
- Advanced Photonics Center, School of Electronic Science and Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210096, China
| | - Qianqian Dong
- Advanced Photonics Center, School of Electronic Science and Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210096, China
| | - Hang Liu
- Advanced Photonics Center, School of Electronic Science and Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210096, China
| | - Lei Wu
- Advanced Photonics Center, School of Electronic Science and Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210096, China
| | - Shenfei Zong
- Advanced Photonics Center, School of Electronic Science and Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210096, China
| | - Zhuyuan Wang
- Advanced Photonics Center, School of Electronic Science and Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210096, China
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20
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Neagu AN, Jayaweera T, Weraduwage K, Darie CC. A Nanorobotics-Based Approach of Breast Cancer in the Nanotechnology Era. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:4981. [PMID: 38732200 PMCID: PMC11084175 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25094981] [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: 04/11/2024] [Revised: 04/28/2024] [Accepted: 05/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
We are living in an era of advanced nanoscience and nanotechnology. Numerous nanomaterials, culminating in nanorobots, have demonstrated ingenious applications in biomedicine, including breast cancer (BC) nano-theranostics. To solve the complicated problem of BC heterogeneity, non-targeted drug distribution, invasive diagnostics or surgery, resistance to classic onco-therapies and real-time monitoring of tumors, nanorobots are designed to perform multiple tasks at a small scale, even at the organelles or molecular level. Over the last few years, most nanorobots have been bioengineered as biomimetic and biocompatible nano(bio)structures, resembling different organisms and cells, such as urchin, spider, octopus, fish, spermatozoon, flagellar bacterium or helicoidal cyanobacterium. In this review, readers will be able to deepen their knowledge of the structure, behavior and role of several types of nanorobots, among other nanomaterials, in BC theranostics. We summarized here the characteristics of many functionalized nanodevices designed to counteract the main neoplastic hallmark features of BC, from sustaining proliferation and evading anti-growth signaling and resisting programmed cell death to inducing angiogenesis, activating invasion and metastasis, preventing genomic instability, avoiding immune destruction and deregulating autophagy. Most of these nanorobots function as targeted and self-propelled smart nano-carriers or nano-drug delivery systems (nano-DDSs), enhancing the efficiency and safety of chemo-, radio- or photodynamic therapy, or the current imagistic techniques used in BC diagnosis. Most of these nanorobots have been tested in vitro, using various BC cell lines, as well as in vivo, mainly based on mice models. We are still waiting for nanorobots that are low-cost, as well as for a wider transition of these favorable effects from laboratory to clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anca-Narcisa Neagu
- Laboratory of Animal Histology, Faculty of Biology, “Alexandru Ioan Cuza” University of Iași, Carol I bvd. 20A, 700505 Iasi, Romania;
| | - Taniya Jayaweera
- Biochemistry & Proteomics Laboratories, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Clarkson University, Potsdam, NY 13699-5810, USA; (T.J.); (K.W.)
| | - Krishan Weraduwage
- Biochemistry & Proteomics Laboratories, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Clarkson University, Potsdam, NY 13699-5810, USA; (T.J.); (K.W.)
| | - Costel C. Darie
- Biochemistry & Proteomics Laboratories, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Clarkson University, Potsdam, NY 13699-5810, USA; (T.J.); (K.W.)
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21
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Wang Y, Qiao SL, Wang J, Yu MZ, Wang NN, Mamuti M, An HW, Lin YX, Wang H. Engineered CpG-Loaded Nanorobots Drive Autophagy-Mediated Immunity for TLR9-Positive Cancer Therapy. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2024; 36:e2306248. [PMID: 37897408 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202306248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2023] [Revised: 10/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/30/2023]
Abstract
Smart nanorobots have emerged as novel drug delivery platforms in nanomedicine, potentially improving anti-cancer efficacy and reducing side effects. In this study, an intelligent tumor microenvironment-responsive nanorobot is developed that effectively delivers CpG payloads to Toll-like receptor 9 (TLR9)-positive tumors to induce autophagy-mediated cell death for immunotherapy. The nanorobots are fabricated by co-self-assembly of two amphiphilic triblock polymer peptides: one containing the matrix metallopeptidase 2 (MMP2)-cleaved GPLGVRGS motif to control the mechanical opening of the nanorobots and provide targeting capability for TLR-9-positive tumors and the other consisting of an arginine-rich GRRRDRGRS sequence that can condense nuclear acid payloads through electrostatic interactions. Using multiple tumor-bearing mouse models, it is investigated whether the intravenous injection of CpG-loaded nanorobots could effectively deliver CpG payloads to TLR-9-positive tumors and elicit anti-tumor immunity through TLR9 signaling and autophagy. Therefore, besides being a commonly used adjuvant for tumor vaccination, CpG-loaded nanorobots can effectively reprogram the tumor immunosuppressive microenvironment and suppress tumor growth and recurrence. This nanorobot-based CpG immunotherapy can be considered a feasible approach to induce anti-tumor immunity, showing great therapeutic potential for the future treatment of TLR9-positive cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Wang
- CAS Key Laboratory for Biomedical Effects of Nanomaterials and Nanosafety, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology (NCNST), Beijing, 100190, P. R. China
- School of Nanoscience and Technology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (UCAS), Beijing, 100149, P. R. China
- Institute of Bioengineering and Institute of Materials Science & Engineering, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne, 1015, Switzerland
| | - Sheng-Lin Qiao
- CAS Key Laboratory for Biomedical Effects of Nanomaterials and Nanosafety, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology (NCNST), Beijing, 100190, P. R. China
- Lab of Functional and Biomedical Nanomaterials, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Qingdao University of Science and Technology (QUST), Qingdao, 266042, P. R. China
| | - Jie Wang
- CAS Key Laboratory for Biomedical Effects of Nanomaterials and Nanosafety, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology (NCNST), Beijing, 100190, P. R. China
- School of Nanoscience and Technology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (UCAS), Beijing, 100149, P. R. China
| | - Meng-Zhen Yu
- CAS Key Laboratory for Biomedical Effects of Nanomaterials and Nanosafety, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology (NCNST), Beijing, 100190, P. R. China
- School of Nanoscience and Technology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (UCAS), Beijing, 100149, P. R. China
| | - Nan-Nan Wang
- CAS Key Laboratory for Biomedical Effects of Nanomaterials and Nanosafety, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology (NCNST), Beijing, 100190, P. R. China
- School of Nanoscience and Technology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (UCAS), Beijing, 100149, P. R. China
| | - Muhetaerjiang Mamuti
- CAS Key Laboratory for Biomedical Effects of Nanomaterials and Nanosafety, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology (NCNST), Beijing, 100190, P. R. China
| | - Hong-Wei An
- CAS Key Laboratory for Biomedical Effects of Nanomaterials and Nanosafety, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology (NCNST), Beijing, 100190, P. R. China
| | - Yao-Xin Lin
- CAS Key Laboratory for Biomedical Effects of Nanomaterials and Nanosafety, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology (NCNST), Beijing, 100190, P. R. China
- School of Nanoscience and Technology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (UCAS), Beijing, 100149, P. R. China
| | - Hao Wang
- CAS Key Laboratory for Biomedical Effects of Nanomaterials and Nanosafety, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology (NCNST), Beijing, 100190, P. R. China
- School of Nanoscience and Technology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (UCAS), Beijing, 100149, P. R. China
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22
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Senyuk B, Wu JS, Smalyukh II. Out-of-equilibrium interactions and collective locomotion of colloidal spheres with squirming of nematoelastic multipoles. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2024; 121:e2322710121. [PMID: 38652740 PMCID: PMC11067049 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2322710121] [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: 12/23/2023] [Accepted: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Many living and artificial systems show similar emergent behavior and collective motions on different scales, starting from swarms of bacteria to synthetic active particles, herds of mammals, and crowds of people. What all these systems often have in common is that new collective properties like flocking emerge from interactions between individual self-propelled or driven units. Such systems are naturally out-of-equilibrium and propel at the expense of consumed energy. Mimicking nature by making self-propelled or externally driven particles and studying their individual and collective motility may allow for deeper understanding of physical underpinnings behind collective motion of large groups of interacting objects or beings. Here, using a soft matter system of colloids immersed into a liquid crystal, we show that resulting so-called nematoelastic multipoles can be set into a bidirectional locomotion by external oscillating electric fields. Out-of-equilibrium elastic interactions between such colloidal objects lead to collective flock-like behaviors emerging from time-varying elasticity-mediated interactions between externally driven propelling particles. Repulsive elastic interactions in the equilibrium state can be turned into attractive interactions in the out-of-equilibrium state under applied external electric fields. We probe this behavior at different number densities of colloidal particles and show that particles in dense dispersions collectively select the same direction of a coherent motion due to elastic interactions between near neighbors. In our experimentally implemented design, their motion is highly ordered and without clustering or jamming often present in other colloidal transport systems, which is promising for technological and fundamental-science applications, like nano-cargo transport, out-of-equilibrium assembly, and microrobotics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bohdan Senyuk
- Department of Physics, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO80309
- International Institute for Sustainability with Knotted Chiral Meta Matter (WPI-SKCM), Hiroshima University, Higashi-Hiroshima, Hiroshima739-0046, Japan
| | - Jin-Sheng Wu
- Department of Physics, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO80309
| | - Ivan I. Smalyukh
- Department of Physics, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO80309
- International Institute for Sustainability with Knotted Chiral Meta Matter (WPI-SKCM), Hiroshima University, Higashi-Hiroshima, Hiroshima739-0046, Japan
- Materials Science and Engineering Program, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO80309
- Renewable and Sustainable Energy Institute, National Renewable Energy Laboratory and University of Colorado, Boulder, CO80309
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23
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Jung Y, Kwon K, Lee J, Ko SH. Untethered soft actuators for soft standalone robotics. Nat Commun 2024; 15:3510. [PMID: 38664373 PMCID: PMC11045848 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-47639-0] [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: 07/09/2023] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Soft actuators produce the mechanical force needed for the functional movements of soft robots, but they suffer from critical drawbacks since previously reported soft actuators often rely on electrical wires or pneumatic tubes for the power supply, which would limit the potential usage of soft robots in various practical applications. In this article, we review the new types of untethered soft actuators that represent breakthroughs and discuss the future perspective of soft actuators. We discuss the functional materials and innovative strategies that gave rise to untethered soft actuators and deliver our perspective on challenges and opportunities for future-generation soft actuators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yeongju Jung
- Applied Nano and Thermal Science Lab, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Seoul National University, 1 Gwanak-ro, Gwanak-gu, Seoul, 08826, South Korea
| | - Kangkyu Kwon
- Applied Nano and Thermal Science Lab, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Seoul National University, 1 Gwanak-ro, Gwanak-gu, Seoul, 08826, South Korea
| | - Jinwoo Lee
- Department of Mechanical, Robotics, and Energy Engineering, Dongguk University, 30 Pildong-ro 1-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul, 04620, South Korea.
| | - Seung Hwan Ko
- Applied Nano and Thermal Science Lab, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Seoul National University, 1 Gwanak-ro, Gwanak-gu, Seoul, 08826, South Korea.
- Institute of Engineering Research / Institute of Advanced Machinery and Design (SNU-IAMD), Seoul National University, 1 Gwanak-ro, Gwanak-gu, Seoul, 08826, South Korea.
- Interdisciplinary Program in Bioengineering, Seoul National University, 1 Gwanak-ro, Gwanak-gu, Seoul, 08826, Korea.
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24
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Wang Y, Chen H, Xie L, Liu J, Zhang L, Yu J. Swarm Autonomy: From Agent Functionalization to Machine Intelligence. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2024:e2312956. [PMID: 38653192 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202312956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
Swarm behaviors are common in nature, where individual organisms collaborate via perception, communication, and adaptation. Emulating these dynamics, large groups of active agents can self-organize through localized interactions, giving rise to complex swarm behaviors, which exhibit potential for applications across various domains. This review presents a comprehensive summary and perspective of synthetic swarms, to bridge the gap between the microscale individual agents and potential applications of synthetic swarms. It is begun by examining active agents, the fundamental units of synthetic swarms, to understand the origins of their motility and functionality in the presence of external stimuli. Then inter-agent communications and agent-environment communications that contribute to the swarm generation are summarized. Furthermore, the swarm behaviors reported to date and the emergence of machine intelligence within these behaviors are reviewed. Eventually, the applications enabled by distinct synthetic swarms are summarized. By discussing the emergent machine intelligence in swarm behaviors, insights are offered into the design and deployment of autonomous synthetic swarms for real-world applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yibin Wang
- School of Science and Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, 518172, China
- Shenzhen Institute of Artificial Intelligence and Robotics for Society, Shenzhen, 518172, China
| | - Hui Chen
- School of Science and Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, 518172, China
- Shenzhen Institute of Artificial Intelligence and Robotics for Society, Shenzhen, 518172, China
| | - Leiming Xie
- School of Science and Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, 518172, China
- Shenzhen Institute of Artificial Intelligence and Robotics for Society, Shenzhen, 518172, China
| | - Jinbo Liu
- School of Science and Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, 518172, China
- Shenzhen Institute of Artificial Intelligence and Robotics for Society, Shenzhen, 518172, China
| | - Li Zhang
- Department of Mechanical and Automation Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, 999077, China
| | - Jiangfan Yu
- School of Science and Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, 518172, China
- Shenzhen Institute of Artificial Intelligence and Robotics for Society, Shenzhen, 518172, China
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25
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Xu Y, Kang J, Sun M, Shan J, Guo W, Zhang Q. Insights into characteristic motions and negative chemotaxis of the inanimate motor sensitive to sodium chloride. J Colloid Interface Sci 2024; 660:953-960. [PMID: 38281476 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcis.2024.01.047] [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: 10/31/2023] [Revised: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 01/06/2024] [Indexed: 01/30/2024]
Abstract
Inanimate motors, driven by the difference in surface tension, provide platforms for studying the physics of characteristic motion and mimicking the complex behaviors of biological systems. However, it is challenging to endow inanimate motors with high autonomy, with an emphasis on simulating the behavior of living organisms in response to external stimuli. Herein, by applying sodium chloride (NaCl) as an external stimulus, we achieve the regulation of motion mode and chemotaxis in a self-propelled camphor system. We present a comprehensive surface/interface understanding of motion bifurcation with the increase of concentration NaCl, i.e., continuous motion to no motion via oscillatory motion. The features of motions (the speed and frequency) and the mechanisms are elucidated depending on the concentrations of NaCl and sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS). Furthermore, the characteristic motion and chemotaxis to the salt stimulus are correlated to the dynamic breaking/reforming of the surface tension balance and gradient-type distribution phenomenon triggered by dynamic camphor dissolution, surfactant adsorption /diffusion and camphor-surfactant interaction. This work sheds light on the typical motions of inanimate motors and scrutinizes the synergy between dual additives, which will boost the design of advanced self-propelled systems with nonlinear characteristic motion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Xu
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Chang'an District, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710129, China
| | - Jiaxiang Kang
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Chang'an District, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710129, China
| | - Mingming Sun
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Chang'an District, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710129, China
| | - Jiahui Shan
- Queen Mary University of London Engineering School, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Chang'an District, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710129, China
| | - Wei Guo
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Chang'an District, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710129, China.
| | - Qiuyu Zhang
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Chang'an District, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710129, China.
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26
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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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27
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Benhal P. Micro/Nanorobotics in In Vitro Fertilization: A Paradigm Shift in Assisted Reproductive Technologies. MICROMACHINES 2024; 15:510. [PMID: 38675321 PMCID: PMC11052506 DOI: 10.3390/mi15040510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2024] [Revised: 03/28/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
In vitro fertilization (IVF) has transformed the sector of assisted reproductive technology (ART) by presenting hope to couples facing infertility challenges. However, conventional IVF strategies include their own set of problems such as success rates, invasive procedures, and ethical issues. The integration of micro/nanorobotics into IVF provides a prospect to address these challenging issues. This article provides an outline of the use of micro/nanorobotics in IVF specializing in advancing sperm manipulation, egg retrieval, embryo culture, and capacity future improvements in this swiftly evolving discipline. The article additionally explores the challenges and obstacles associated with the integration of micro/nanorobotics into IVF, in addition to the ethical concerns and regulatory elements related to the usage of advanced technologies in ART. A comprehensive discussion of the risk and safety considerations related to using micro/nanorobotics in IVF techniques is likewise presented. Through this exploration, we delve into the core principles, benefits, challenges, and potential impact of micro/nanorobotics in revolutionizing IVF procedures and enhancing affected person outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prateek Benhal
- Department of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, FAMU-FSU College of Engineering, Tallahassee, FL 32310, USA; ; Tel.: +1-240-972-1482
- National High Magnetic Field Laboratory, 1800 E. Paul Dirac Dr., Tallahassee, FL 32310, USA
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28
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Tran HH, Watkins A, Oh MJ, Babeer A, Schaer TP, Steager E, Koo H. Targeting biofilm infections in humans using small scale robotics. Trends Biotechnol 2024; 42:479-495. [PMID: 37968157 PMCID: PMC11104480 DOI: 10.1016/j.tibtech.2023.10.004] [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: 08/22/2023] [Revised: 10/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 11/17/2023]
Abstract
The eradication of drug-resistant microbial biofilms remains an unresolved global health challenge. Small-scale robotics are providing innovative therapeutic and diagnostic approaches with high precision and efficacy. These approaches are rapidly moving from proof-of-concept studies to translational biomedical applications using ex vivo, animal, and clinical models. Here, we discuss the fundamental and translational aspects of how microrobots target the infection sites to disrupt the structural and functional traits of biofilms and their antimicrobial resistance mechanisms. We emphasize current approaches of mechanochemical disruption and on-site drug delivery that are supported by in vivo models and preclinical testing, while also highlighting diagnostics potential. We also discuss clinical translation challenges and provide perspectives for development of microrobotics approaches to combat biofilm infections and biofouling in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong Huy Tran
- School of Dental Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, USA; School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, USA
| | - Amanda Watkins
- School of Dental Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, USA; Department of Clinical Studies New Bolton Center, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Kennett Square, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Min Jun Oh
- School of Dental Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, USA; School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, USA
| | - Alaa Babeer
- Department of Oral Biology, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
| | - Thomas P Schaer
- Department of Clinical Studies New Bolton Center, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Kennett Square, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Edward Steager
- School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, USA.
| | - Hyun Koo
- School of Dental Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, USA.
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29
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Wang L, Zou W, Shen J, Yang S, Wu J, Ying T, Cai X, Zhang L, Wu J, Zheng Y. Dual-Functional Laser-Guided Magnetic Nanorobot Collectives against Gravity for On-Demand Thermo-Chemotherapy of Peritoneal Metastasis. Adv Healthc Mater 2024; 13:e2303361. [PMID: 38115718 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202303361] [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: 10/03/2023] [Revised: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023]
Abstract
Combining hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy with cytoreductive surgery is the main treatment modality for peritoneal metastatic (PM) carcinoma despite the off-target effects of chemotherapy drugs and the ineluctable side effects of total abdominal heating. Herein, a laser-integrated magnetic actuation system that actively delivers doxorubicin (DOX)-grafted magnetic nanorobot collectives to the tumor site in model mice for local hyperthermia and chemotherapy is reported. With intraluminal movements controlled by a torque-force hybrid magnetic field, these magnetic nanorobots gather at a fixed point coinciding with the position of the localization laser, moving upward against gravity over a long distance and targeting tumor sites under ultrasound imaging guidance. Because aggregation enhances the photothermal effect, controlled local DOX release is achieved under near-infrared laser irradiation. The targeted on-demand photothermal therapy of multiple PM carcinomas while minimizing off-target tissue damage is demonstrated. Additionally, a localization/treatment dual-functional laser-integrated magnetic actuation system is developed and validated in vivo, offering a potentially clinically feasible drug delivery strategy for targeting PM and other intraluminal tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Longchen Wang
- Department of Ultrasound in Medicine, Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No. 600, Yishan Road, Shanghai, 200233, P. R. China
| | - Weijuan Zou
- Department of Ultrasound in Medicine, Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No. 600, Yishan Road, Shanghai, 200233, P. R. China
| | - Jian Shen
- Department of Ultrasound in Medicine, Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No. 600, Yishan Road, Shanghai, 200233, P. R. China
| | - Shihao Yang
- Department of Mechanical and Automation Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, 999077, P. R. China
| | - Jingjing Wu
- Department of Ultrasound in Medicine, Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No. 600, Yishan Road, Shanghai, 200233, P. R. China
| | - Tao Ying
- Department of Ultrasound in Medicine, Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No. 600, Yishan Road, Shanghai, 200233, P. R. China
| | - Xiaojun Cai
- Department of Ultrasound in Medicine, Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No. 600, Yishan Road, Shanghai, 200233, P. R. China
| | - Li Zhang
- Department of Mechanical and Automation Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, 999077, P. R. China
| | - Jianrong Wu
- Department of Ultrasound in Medicine, Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No. 600, Yishan Road, Shanghai, 200233, P. R. China
| | - Yuanyi Zheng
- Department of Ultrasound in Medicine, Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No. 600, Yishan Road, Shanghai, 200233, P. R. China
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30
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Xu H, Wu S, Liu Y, Wang X, Efremov AK, Wang L, McCaskill JS, Medina-Sánchez M, Schmidt OG. 3D nanofabricated soft microrobots with super-compliant picoforce springs as onboard sensors and actuators. NATURE NANOTECHNOLOGY 2024; 19:494-503. [PMID: 38172430 PMCID: PMC11026159 DOI: 10.1038/s41565-023-01567-0] [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: 01/27/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
Microscale organisms and specialized motile cells use protein-based spring-like responsive structures to sense, grasp and move. Rendering this biomechanical transduction functionality in an artificial micromachine for applications in single-cell manipulations is challenging due to the need for a bio-applicable nanoscale spring system with a large and programmable strain response to piconewton-scale forces. Here we present three-dimensional nanofabrication and monolithic integration, based on an acrylic elastomer photoresist, of a magnetic spring system with quantifiable compliance sensitive to 0.5 pN, constructed with customized elasticity and magnetization distributions at the nanoscale. We demonstrate the effective design programmability of these 'picospring' ensembles as energy transduction mechanisms for the integrated construction of customized soft micromachines, with onboard sensing and actuation functions at the single-cell scale for microrobotic grasping and locomotion. The integration of active soft springs into three-dimensional nanofabrication offers an avenue to create biocompatible soft microrobots for non-disruptive interactions with biological entities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haifeng Xu
- Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology (SIAT), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, China.
- Leibniz Institute for Solid State and Materials Research Dresden (Leibniz IFW Dresden), Dresden, Germany.
| | - Song Wu
- Leibniz Institute for Solid State and Materials Research Dresden (Leibniz IFW Dresden), Dresden, Germany
| | - Yuan Liu
- Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology (SIAT), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xiaopu Wang
- Shenzhen Institute of Artificial Intelligence and Robotics for Society, Shenzhen, China
| | | | - Lei Wang
- Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology (SIAT), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, China
| | - John S McCaskill
- Research Center for Materials, Architectures and Integration of Nanomembranes (MAIN), Chemnitz University of Technology, Chemnitz, Germany
| | - Mariana Medina-Sánchez
- Leibniz Institute for Solid State and Materials Research Dresden (Leibniz IFW Dresden), Dresden, Germany.
- Chair of Micro- and NanoSystems, Center for Molecular Bioengineering (B CUBE), Dresden University of Technology, Dresden, Germany.
| | - Oliver G Schmidt
- Research Center for Materials, Architectures and Integration of Nanomembranes (MAIN), Chemnitz University of Technology, Chemnitz, Germany.
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31
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Wu G, Xian W, You Q, Zhang J, Chen X. AcousticRobots: Smart acoustically powered micro-/nanoswimmers for precise biomedical applications. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2024; 207:115201. [PMID: 38331256 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2024.115201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Revised: 12/24/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024]
Abstract
Although nanotechnology has evolutionarily progressed in biomedical field over the past decades, achieving satisfactory therapeutic effects remains difficult with limited delivery efficiency. Ultrasound could provide a deep penetration and maneuverable actuation to efficiently power micro-/nanoswimmers with little harm, offering an emerging and fascinating alternative to the active delivery platform. Recent advances in novel fabrication, controllable concepts like intelligent swarm and the integration of hybrid propulsions have promoted its function and potential for medical applications. In this review, we will summarize the mechanisms and types of ultrasonically propelled micro/nanorobots (termed here as "AcousticRobots"), including the interactions between AcousticRobots and acoustic field, practical design considerations (e.g., component, size, shape), the synthetic methods, surface modification, controllable behaviors, and the advantages when combined with other propulsion approaches. The representative biomedical applications of functional AcousticRobots are also highlighted, including drug delivery, invasive surgery, eradication on the surrounding bio-environment, cell manipulation, detection, and imaging, etc. We conclude by discussing the challenges and outlook of AcousticRobots in biomedical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gege Wu
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 119074, Singapore; Nanomedicine Translational Research Program, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117597, Singapore
| | - Wei Xian
- Siansonic Technology Limited, No.1, Xingguang 5th Street, Ciqu, Tongzhou District, Beijing 101111, China
| | - Qing You
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 119074, Singapore; Nanomedicine Translational Research Program, 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.
| | - Jingjing Zhang
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 119074, Singapore; Nanomedicine Translational Research Program, 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.
| | - Xiaoyuan Chen
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 119074, Singapore; Nanomedicine Translational Research Program, 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; Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, and Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Design and Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore 119074, Singapore; Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Agency for Science, Technology, and Research (A*STAR), 61 Biopolis Drive, Proteos, Singapore 138673, Singapore.
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Zhu Y, Jia H, Jiang Y, Guo Y, Duan Q, Xu K, Shan B, Liu X, Chen X, Wu F. A red blood cell-derived bionic microrobot capable of hierarchically adapting to five critical stages in systemic drug delivery. EXPLORATION (BEIJING, CHINA) 2024; 4:20230105. [PMID: 38855612 PMCID: PMC11022606 DOI: 10.1002/exp.20230105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 06/11/2024]
Abstract
The tumour-targeting efficiency of systemically delivered chemodrugs largely dictates the therapeutic outcome of anticancer treatment. Major challenges lie in the complexity of diverse biological barriers that drug delivery systems must hierarchically overcome to reach their cellular/subcellular targets. Herein, an "all-in-one" red blood cell (RBC)-derived microrobot that can hierarchically adapt to five critical stages during systemic drug delivery, that is, circulation, accumulation, release, extravasation, and penetration, is developed. The microrobots behave like natural RBCs in blood circulation, due to their almost identical surface properties, but can be magnetically manipulated to accumulate at regions of interest such as tumours. Next, the microrobots are "immolated" under laser irradiation to release their therapeutic cargoes and, by generating heat, to enhance drug extravasation through vascular barriers. As a coloaded agent, pirfenidone (PFD) can inhibit the formation of extracellular matrix and increase the penetration depth of chemodrugs in the solid tumour. It is demonstrated that this system effectively suppresses both primary and metastatic tumours in mouse models without evident side effects, and may represent a new class of intelligent biomimicking robots for biomedical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ya‐Xuan Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Digital Medical EngineeringJiangsu Key Laboratory for Biomaterials and DevicesSchool of Biological Science and Medical EngineeringSoutheast UniversityNanjingJiangsuPeople's Republic of China
- Shanghai Tenth People's HospitalShanghai Frontiers Science Center of Nanocatalytic MedicineSchool of MedicineTongji UniversityShanghaiPeople's Republic of China
| | - Hao‐Ran Jia
- State Key Laboratory of Digital Medical EngineeringJiangsu Key Laboratory for Biomaterials and DevicesSchool of Biological Science and Medical EngineeringSoutheast UniversityNanjingJiangsuPeople's Republic of China
- The Cancer Hospital of the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (Zhejiang Cancer Hospital)Hangzhou Institute of Medicine (HIM)Chinese Academy of SciencesHangzhouZhejiangPeople's Republic of China
| | - Yao‐Wen Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Digital Medical EngineeringJiangsu Key Laboratory for Biomaterials and DevicesSchool of Biological Science and Medical EngineeringSoutheast UniversityNanjingJiangsuPeople's Republic of China
| | - Yuxin Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Digital Medical EngineeringJiangsu Key Laboratory for Biomaterials and DevicesSchool of Biological Science and Medical EngineeringSoutheast UniversityNanjingJiangsuPeople's Republic of China
| | - Qiu‐Yi Duan
- State Key Laboratory of Digital Medical EngineeringJiangsu Key Laboratory for Biomaterials and DevicesSchool of Biological Science and Medical EngineeringSoutheast UniversityNanjingJiangsuPeople's Republic of China
| | - Ke‐Fei Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Digital Medical EngineeringJiangsu Key Laboratory for Biomaterials and DevicesSchool of Biological Science and Medical EngineeringSoutheast UniversityNanjingJiangsuPeople's Republic of China
| | - Bai‐Hui Shan
- State Key Laboratory of Digital Medical EngineeringJiangsu Key Laboratory for Biomaterials and DevicesSchool of Biological Science and Medical EngineeringSoutheast UniversityNanjingJiangsuPeople's Republic of China
| | - Xiaoyang Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Digital Medical EngineeringJiangsu Key Laboratory for Biomaterials and DevicesSchool of Biological Science and Medical EngineeringSoutheast UniversityNanjingJiangsuPeople's Republic of China
| | - Xiaokai Chen
- School of ChemistryChemical Engineering and BiotechnologyNanyang Technological UniversitySingaporeSingapore
| | - Fu‐Gen Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Digital Medical EngineeringJiangsu Key Laboratory for Biomaterials and DevicesSchool of Biological Science and Medical EngineeringSoutheast UniversityNanjingJiangsuPeople's Republic of China
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33
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Xu R, Xu Q. A Survey of Recent Developments in Magnetic Microrobots for Micro-/Nano-Manipulation. MICROMACHINES 2024; 15:468. [PMID: 38675279 PMCID: PMC11052276 DOI: 10.3390/mi15040468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2024] [Revised: 03/23/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
Magnetically actuated microrobots have become a research hotspot in recent years due to their tiny size, untethered control, and rapid response capability. Moreover, an increasing number of researchers are applying them for micro-/nano-manipulation in the biomedical field. This survey provides a comprehensive overview of the recent developments in magnetic microrobots, focusing on materials, propulsion mechanisms, design strategies, fabrication techniques, and diverse micro-/nano-manipulation applications. The exploration of magnetic materials, biosafety considerations, and propulsion methods serves as a foundation for the diverse designs discussed in this review. The paper delves into the design categories, encompassing helical, surface, ciliary, scaffold, and biohybrid microrobots, with each demonstrating unique capabilities. Furthermore, various fabrication techniques, including direct laser writing, glancing angle deposition, biotemplating synthesis, template-assisted electrochemical deposition, and magnetic self-assembly, are examined owing to their contributions to the realization of magnetic microrobots. The potential impact of magnetic microrobots across multidisciplinary domains is presented through various application areas, such as drug delivery, minimally invasive surgery, cell manipulation, and environmental remediation. This review highlights a comprehensive summary of the current challenges, hurdles to overcome, and future directions in magnetic microrobot research across different fields.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Qingsong Xu
- Department of Electromechanical Engineering, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Macau, Avenida da Universidade, Taipa, Macau, China;
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34
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Tang D, Peng X, Wu S, Tang S. Autonomous Nanorobots as Miniaturized Surgeons for Intracellular Applications. NANOMATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2024; 14:595. [PMID: 38607129 PMCID: PMC11013175 DOI: 10.3390/nano14070595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2024] [Revised: 03/06/2024] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/13/2024]
Abstract
Artificial nanorobots have emerged as promising tools for a wide range of biomedical applications, including biosensing, detoxification, and drug delivery. Their unique ability to navigate confined spaces with precise control extends their operational scope to the cellular or subcellular level. By combining tailored surface functionality and propulsion mechanisms, nanorobots demonstrate rapid penetration of cell membranes and efficient internalization, enhancing intracellular delivery capabilities. Moreover, their robust motion within cells enables targeted interactions with intracellular components, such as proteins, molecules, and organelles, leading to superior performance in intracellular biosensing and organelle-targeted cargo delivery. Consequently, nanorobots hold significant potential as miniaturized surgeons capable of directly modulating cellular dynamics and combating metastasis, thereby maximizing therapeutic outcomes for precision therapy. In this review, we provide an overview of the propulsion modes of nanorobots and discuss essential factors to harness propulsive energy from the local environment or external power sources, including structure, material, and engine selection. We then discuss key advancements in nanorobot technology for various intracellular applications. Finally, we address important considerations for future nanorobot design to facilitate their translation into clinical practice and unlock their full potential in biomedical research and healthcare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daitian Tang
- Luohu Clinical Institute, School of Medicine, Shantou University, Shantou 515000, China; (D.T.); (X.P.)
| | - Xiqi Peng
- Luohu Clinical Institute, School of Medicine, Shantou University, Shantou 515000, China; (D.T.); (X.P.)
| | - Song Wu
- Luohu Clinical Institute, School of Medicine, Shantou University, Shantou 515000, China; (D.T.); (X.P.)
| | - Songsong Tang
- Andrew and Peggy Cherng Department of Medical Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA
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35
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Zhou D, Yue H, Chang X, Mo Y, Liu Y, Chang H, Li L. Mimicking Motor Proteins: Wall-Guided Self-Navigation of Microwheels. ACS NANO 2024; 18:8853-8862. [PMID: 38470259 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.3c12062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/13/2024]
Abstract
Untethered micro/nanorobots (MNRs) show great promise in biomedicine. However, high-precision targeted in vivo navigation of MNRs into both deep and tiny microtube networks comes with big challenges because the present medical imaging cannot simultaneously meet the requirements of high resolution, high penetration depth, and high real-time performance. Inspired by intracellular motor proteins that transport cargo along cytoskeletal tracks, this study proposed a microtube inwall-guided targeted self-navigation strategy of magnetic microwheels (μ-wheels) that relies only on interactions with a microtube inwall, compared to conventional techniques that rely on real-time imaging and tracking of MNRs. By presetting the direction of the rotating magnetic field, the μ-wheel realized targeted navigation along the inwall. The propulsion principles behind it are elaborated. The targeted self-navigation of the μ-wheels in three-dimensional microtube networks, a spiral microtube, and an intrahepatic bile duct of a pig was conducted. Lastly, based on the strategy, a practical tumor early detection method was proposed and verified by means of magnetic resonance imaging. The microtube inwall-guided targeted self-navigation strategy reduces the dependence of in vivo targeted navigation of MNRs on the real-time performance of medical imaging technology and greatly contributes to the development of MNRs in biomedical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dekai Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Robotics and Systems, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, Heilongjiang 150001, P. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Micro-systems and Micro-Structures Manufacturing, Harbin Institute of Technology, Ministry of Education, Harbin, Heilongjiang 150001, P. R. China
| | - Honger Yue
- State Key Laboratory of Robotics and Systems, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, Heilongjiang 150001, P. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Micro-systems and Micro-Structures Manufacturing, Harbin Institute of Technology, Ministry of Education, Harbin, Heilongjiang 150001, P. R. China
| | - Xiaocong Chang
- State Key Laboratory of Robotics and Systems, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, Heilongjiang 150001, P. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Micro-systems and Micro-Structures Manufacturing, Harbin Institute of Technology, Ministry of Education, Harbin, Heilongjiang 150001, P. R. China
| | - Yi Mo
- State Key Laboratory of Robotics and Systems, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, Heilongjiang 150001, P. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Micro-systems and Micro-Structures Manufacturing, Harbin Institute of Technology, Ministry of Education, Harbin, Heilongjiang 150001, P. R. China
| | - Ying Liu
- Heilongjiang Province Hospital, Harbin, Heilongjiang 150001, P. R. China
| | - Hongjie Chang
- Heilongjiang Province Hospital, Harbin, Heilongjiang 150001, P. R. China
| | - Longqiu Li
- State Key Laboratory of Robotics and Systems, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, Heilongjiang 150001, P. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Micro-systems and Micro-Structures Manufacturing, Harbin Institute of Technology, Ministry of Education, Harbin, Heilongjiang 150001, P. R. China
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36
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Zhou Y, Cao Z, Jiang L, Chen Y, Cui X, Wu J, Xie X, Wang L, Ying T. Magnetically actuated sonodynamic nanorobot collectives for potentiated ovarian cancer therapy. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2024; 12:1374423. [PMID: 38595994 PMCID: PMC11002226 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2024.1374423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Ovarian cancer presents a substantial challenge due to its high mortality and recurrence rates among gynecological tumors. Existing clinical chemotherapy treatments are notably limited by drug resistance and systemic toxic side effects caused by off target drugs. Sonodynamic therapy (SDT) has emerged as a promising approach in cancer treatment, motivating researchers to explore synergistic combinations with other therapies for enhanced efficacy. In this study, we developed magnetic sonodynamic nanorobot (Fe3O4@SiO2-Ce6, FSC) by applying a SiO2 coating onto Fe3O4 nanoparticle, followed by coupling with the sonosensitizer Ce6. The magnetic FSC nanorobot collectives could gather at fixed point and actively move to target site regulated by magnetic field. In vitro experiments revealed that the magnetic FSC nanorobot collectives enabled directional navigation to the tumor cell area under guidance. Furthermore, under low-intensity ultrasonic stimulation, FSC nanorobot collectives mediated sonodynamic therapy exhibited remarkable anti-tumor performance. These findings suggest that magnetically actuated sonodynamic nanorobot collectives hold promising potential for application in target cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yixuan Zhou
- Jinzhou Medical University Graduate Training Base (Shanghai Sixth People’s Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine), Jinzhou, China
- Department of Ultrasound in Medicine, Shanghai Sixth People’s Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Ziqi Cao
- Department of Ultrasound in Medicine, Shanghai Sixth People’s Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Lixian Jiang
- Department of Ultrasound in Medicine, Shanghai Sixth People’s Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Ying Chen
- Department of Ultrasound in Medicine, Shanghai Sixth People’s Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaoyu Cui
- Department of Ultrasound in Medicine, Shanghai Sixth People’s Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jianrong Wu
- Department of Ultrasound in Medicine, Shanghai Sixth People’s Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xue Xie
- Department of Ultrasound in Medicine, Shanghai Sixth People’s Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Longchen Wang
- Department of Ultrasound in Medicine, Shanghai Sixth People’s Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Tao Ying
- Jinzhou Medical University Graduate Training Base (Shanghai Sixth People’s Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine), Jinzhou, China
- Department of Ultrasound in Medicine, Shanghai Sixth People’s Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine, Shanghai, China
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37
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Liu Y, Huang J, Liu C, Song Z, Wu J, Zhao Q, Li Y, Dong F, Wang L, Xu H. Soft Millirobot Capable of Switching Motion Modes on the Fly for Targeted Drug Delivery in the Oviduct. ACS NANO 2024; 18:8694-8705. [PMID: 38466230 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.3c09753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/12/2024]
Abstract
Small-scale magnetic robots with fixed magnetizations have limited locomotion modes, restricting their applications in complex environments in vivo. Here we present a morphology-reconfigurable millirobot that can switch the locomotion modes locally by reprogramming its magnetizations during navigation, in response to distinct magnetic field patterns. By continuously switching its locomotion modes between the high-velocity rigid motion and high-adaptability soft actuation, the millirobot efficiently navigates in small lumens with intricate internal structures and complex surface topographies. As demonstrations, the millirobot performs multimodal locomotion including woodlouse-like rolling and flipping, sperm-like rotating, and snake-like gliding to negotiate different terrains, including the unrestricted channel and high platform, narrow channel, and solid-liquid interface, respectively. Finally, we demonstrate the drug delivery capability of the millirobot through the oviduct-mimicking phantom and ex vivo oviduct. The magnetization reprogramming strategy during navigation represents a promising approach for developing self-adaptive robots for performing complex tasks in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Liu
- Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, P. R. China, 1068 Xueyuan Avenue, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Jing Huang
- Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, P. R. China, 1068 Xueyuan Avenue, Shenzhen 518055, China
- Department of Polymer Materials and Engineering, College of Materials and Metallurgy, Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, China
| | - Chu Liu
- Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, P. R. China, 1068 Xueyuan Avenue, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Zhongyi Song
- Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, P. R. China, 1068 Xueyuan Avenue, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Jiandong Wu
- Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, P. R. China, 1068 Xueyuan Avenue, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Qilong Zhao
- Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, P. R. China, 1068 Xueyuan Avenue, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Yingtian Li
- Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, P. R. China, 1068 Xueyuan Avenue, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Fuping Dong
- Department of Polymer Materials and Engineering, College of Materials and Metallurgy, Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, China
| | - Lei Wang
- Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, P. R. China, 1068 Xueyuan Avenue, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Haifeng Xu
- Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, P. R. China, 1068 Xueyuan Avenue, Shenzhen 518055, China
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38
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Wang B, Lu Y. Collective Molecular Machines: Multidimensionality and Reconfigurability. NANO-MICRO LETTERS 2024; 16:155. [PMID: 38499833 PMCID: PMC10948734 DOI: 10.1007/s40820-024-01379-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2023] [Accepted: 02/17/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024]
Abstract
Molecular machines are key to cellular activity where they are involved in converting chemical and light energy into efficient mechanical work. During the last 60 years, designing molecular structures capable of generating unidirectional mechanical motion at the nanoscale has been the topic of intense research. Effective progress has been made, attributed to advances in various fields such as supramolecular chemistry, biology and nanotechnology, and informatics. However, individual molecular machines are only capable of producing nanometer work and generally have only a single functionality. In order to address these problems, collective behaviors realized by integrating several or more of these individual mechanical units in space and time have become a new paradigm. In this review, we comprehensively discuss recent developments in the collective behaviors of molecular machines. In particular, collective behavior is divided into two paradigms. One is the appropriate integration of molecular machines to efficiently amplify molecular motions and deformations to construct novel functional materials. The other is the construction of swarming modes at the supramolecular level to perform nanoscale or microscale operations. We discuss design strategies for both modes and focus on the modulation of features and properties. Subsequently, in order to address existing challenges, the idea of transferring experience gained in the field of micro/nano robotics is presented, offering prospects for future developments in the collective behavior of molecular machines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bin Wang
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuan Lu
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Biocatalysis, Ministry of Education, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, People's Republic of China.
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39
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Mirkhani N, Christiansen MG, Gwisai T, Menghini S, Schuerle S. Spatially selective delivery of living magnetic microrobots through torque-focusing. Nat Commun 2024; 15:2160. [PMID: 38461256 PMCID: PMC10924878 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-46407-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Rotating magnetic fields enable biomedical microrobots to overcome physiological barriers and promote extravasation and accumulation in tumors. Nevertheless, targeting deeply situated tumors requires suppression of off-target actuation in healthy tissue. Here, we investigate a control strategy for applying spatially selective torque density to microrobots by combining rotating fields with magnetostatic selection fields. Taking magnetotactic bacteria as diffuse torque-based actuators, we numerically model off-target torque suppression, indicating the feasibility of centimeter to millimeter resolution for human applications. We study focal torque application in vitro, observing off-target suppression of actuation-dependent effects such as colonization of bacteria in tumor spheroids. We then design and construct a mouse-scale torque-focusing apparatus capable of maneuvering the focal point. Applying this system to a mouse tumor model increased accumulation of intravenously injected bacteria within tumors receiving focused actuation compared to non-actuated or globally actuated groups. This control scheme combines the advantages of torque-based actuation with spatial targeting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nima Mirkhani
- Institute for Translational Medicine, Department of Health Sciences and Technology, ETH Zurich, CH-8092, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Michael G Christiansen
- Institute for Translational Medicine, Department of Health Sciences and Technology, ETH Zurich, CH-8092, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Tinotenda Gwisai
- Institute for Translational Medicine, Department of Health Sciences and Technology, ETH Zurich, CH-8092, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Stefano Menghini
- Institute for Translational Medicine, Department of Health Sciences and Technology, ETH Zurich, CH-8092, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Simone Schuerle
- Institute for Translational Medicine, Department of Health Sciences and Technology, ETH Zurich, CH-8092, Zurich, Switzerland.
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40
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Hua E, Gao J, Xu Y, Matsuo M, Nakata S. Self-propelled motion controlled by ionic liquids. Phys Chem Chem Phys 2024; 26:8488-8493. [PMID: 38411193 DOI: 10.1039/d3cp05630a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/28/2024]
Abstract
We studied the self-propulsion of a camphor disk floating on a water surface using two types of ionic liquids (hexylammonium-trifluoroacetate (HHexam-TFA) and hexylethylenediaminium-trifluoroacetate (HHexen-TFA)). Bifurcation between continuous, oscillatory, and no motion was observed depending on the concentration of the ionic liquid. The bifurcation concentration between oscillatory and no motion for HHexam-TFA was lower than that for HHexen-TFA. The different bifurcation concentrations are discussed in relation to the surface tension and Fourier transform infrared spectra of the mixtures of camphor and ionic liquids. These results suggest that the interaction between the ionic liquid molecules at the air/water interface is weakened by the addition of camphor molecules and the features of self-propulsion vary due to the change in the driving force.
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Affiliation(s)
- Er Hua
- Chemical Science and Engineering College, Key Laboratory of Chemical Technology of State Ethnic Affairs Commission, North Minzu University, 204 Wenchang North Street, Xixia District, Yinchuan City, Ningxia 750021, China.
| | - Jun Gao
- Chemical Science and Engineering College, Key Laboratory of Chemical Technology of State Ethnic Affairs Commission, North Minzu University, 204 Wenchang North Street, Xixia District, Yinchuan City, Ningxia 750021, China.
| | - Yu Xu
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Chang'an Campus 1 Dongxiang Road, Chang'an District, Xi'an Shaanxi 710129, China
| | - Muneyuki Matsuo
- Graduate School of Science, Hiroshima University, 1-3-1 Kagamiyama, Higashi-Hiroshima, Hiroshima 739-8526, Japan.
- Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, The University of Tokyo, 3-8-1 Komaba, Meguro, Tokyo 153-8902, Japan
| | - Satoshi Nakata
- Graduate School of Science, Hiroshima University, 1-3-1 Kagamiyama, Higashi-Hiroshima, Hiroshima 739-8526, Japan.
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41
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Ferreira VRA, Azenha MA. Recent Advances in Light-Driven Semiconductor-Based Micro/Nanomotors: Optimization Strategies and Emerging Applications. Molecules 2024; 29:1154. [PMID: 38474666 DOI: 10.3390/molecules29051154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2024] [Revised: 02/21/2024] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Micro/nanomotors represent a burgeoning field of research featuring small devices capable of autonomous movement in liquid environments through catalytic reactions and/or external stimuli. This review delves into recent advancements in light-driven semiconductor-based micro/nanomotors (LDSM), focusing on optimized syntheses, enhanced motion mechanisms, and emerging applications in the environmental and biomedical domains. The survey commences with a theoretical introduction to micromotors and their propulsion mechanisms, followed by an exploration of commonly studied LDSM, emphasizing their advantages. Critical properties affecting propulsion, such as surface features, morphology, and size, are presented alongside discussions on external conditions related to light sources and intensity, which are crucial for optimizing the propulsion speed. Each property is accompanied by a theoretical background and conclusions drawn up to 2018. The review further investigates recent adaptations of LDSM, uncovering underlying mechanisms and associated benefits. A brief discussion is included on potential synergistic effects between different external conditions, aiming to enhance efficiency-a relatively underexplored topic. In conclusion, the review outlines emerging applications in biomedicine and environmental monitoring/remediation resulting from recent LDSM research, highlighting the growing significance of this field. The comprehensive exploration of LDSM advancements provides valuable insights for researchers and practitioners seeking to leverage these innovative micro/nanomotors in diverse applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanessa R A Ferreira
- CIQUP-Institute of Molecular Sciences, Departamento de Química e Bioquímica, Faculdade de Ciências da Universidade do Porto, Rua do Campo Alegre, 4169-007 Porto, Portugal
| | - Manuel A Azenha
- CIQUP-Institute of Molecular Sciences, Departamento de Química e Bioquímica, Faculdade de Ciências da Universidade do Porto, Rua do Campo Alegre, 4169-007 Porto, Portugal
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42
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Mayorga-Martinez CC, Zhang L, Pumera M. Chemical multiscale robotics for bacterial biofilm treatment. Chem Soc Rev 2024; 53:2284-2299. [PMID: 38324331 DOI: 10.1039/d3cs00564j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2024]
Abstract
A biofilm constitutes a bacterial community encased in a sticky matrix of extracellular polymeric substances. These intricate microbial communities adhere to various host surfaces such as hard and soft tissues as well as indwelling medical devices. These microbial aggregates form a robust matrix of extracellular polymeric substances (EPSs), leading to the majority of human infections. Such infections tend to exhibit high resistance to treatment, often progressing into chronic states. The matrix of EPS protects bacteria from a hostile environment and prevents the penetration of antibacterial agents. Modern robots at nano, micro, and millimeter scales are highly attractive candidates for biomedical applications due to their diverse functionalities, such as navigating in confined spaces and targeted multitasking. In this tutorial review, we describe key milestones in the strategies developed for the removal and eradication of biofilms using robots of different sizes and shapes. It can be seen that robots at different scales are useful and effective tools for treating bacterial biofilms, thus preventing persistent infections, the loss of costly implanted medical devices, and additional costs associated with hospitalization and therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmen C Mayorga-Martinez
- Advanced Nanorobots & Multicale Robotics, Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, VSB - Technical University of Ostrava, 17. listopadu 2172/15, Ostrava 70800, Czech Republic.
| | - Li Zhang
- Department of Mechanical and Automation Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong 999077, China
- Department of Surgery, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong 999077, China
| | - Martin Pumera
- Advanced Nanorobots & Multicale Robotics, Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, VSB - Technical University of Ostrava, 17. listopadu 2172/15, Ostrava 70800, Czech Republic.
- Department of Medical Research, China Medical University Hospital, China Medical University, No. 91 Hsueh-Shih Road, Taichung, 40402, Taiwan
- Future Energy and Innovation Laboratory, Central European Institute of Technology, Brno University of Technology, Purkyňova 656/123, Brno, CZ-616 00, Czech Republic
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Yonsei University, 50 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul 03722, Korea
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43
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Zhou H, Zhang S, Liu Z, Chi B, Li J, Wang Y. Untethered Microgrippers for Precision Medicine. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2024; 20:e2305805. [PMID: 37941516 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202305805] [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: 07/11/2023] [Revised: 10/07/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023]
Abstract
Microgrippers, a branch of micro/nanorobots, refer to motile miniaturized machines that are of a size in the range of several to hundreds of micrometers. Compared with tethered grippers or other microscopic diagnostic and surgical equipment, untethered microgrippers play an indispensable role in biomedical applications because of their characteristics such as miniaturized size, dexterous shape tranformation, and controllable motion, which enables the microgrippers to enter hard-to-reach regions to execute specific medical tasks for disease diagnosis and treatment. To date, numerous medical microgrippers are developed, and their potential in cell manipulation, targeted drug delivery, biopsy, and minimally invasive surgery are explored. To achieve controlled locomotion and efficient target-oriented actions, the materials, size, microarchitecture, and morphology of microgrippers shall be deliberately designed. In this review, the authors summarizes the latest progress in untethered micrometer-scale grippers. The working mechanisms of shape-morphing and actuation methods for effective movement are first introduced. Then, the design principle and state-of-the-art fabrication techniques of microgrippers are discussed. Finally, their applications in the precise medicine are highlighted, followed by offering future perspectives for the development of untethered medical microgrippers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huaijuan Zhou
- Advanced Research Institute of Multidisciplinary Sciences, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, 100081, China
| | - Shengchang Zhang
- School of Medical Technology, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, 100081, China
| | - Zijian Liu
- School of Medical Technology, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, 100081, China
| | - Bowen Chi
- Department of Neurology, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100070, China
| | - Jinhua Li
- School of Medical Technology, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, 100081, China
| | - Yilong Wang
- School of Medical Technology, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, 100081, China
- Department of Neurology, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100070, China
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Chong WH, Chan DJC, Liu CZ, Lim J. Navigating the microenvironment with flip and turn under quadrupole magnetophoretic steering control: Nanosphere- and nanorod-coated microbead. Electrophoresis 2024; 45:357-368. [PMID: 38044267 DOI: 10.1002/elps.202300042] [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: 02/26/2023] [Revised: 10/07/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023]
Abstract
The spatiotemporal accuracy of microscale magnetophoresis has improved significantly over the course of several decades of development. However, most of the studies so far were using magnetic microbead composed of nanosphere particle for magnetophoretic actuation purpose. Here, we developed an in-house method for magnetic sample analysis called quadrupole magnetic steering control (QMSC). QMSC was used to study the magnetophoretic behavior of polystyrene microbeads decorated with iron oxide nanospheres-coated polystyrene microbeads (IONSs-PS) and iron oxide nanorods-coated polystyrene microbeads (IONRs-PS) under the influence of a quadrupole low field gradient. During a 4-s QMSC experiment, the IONSs-PS and IONRs-PS were navigated to perform 180° flip and 90° turn formations, and their kinematic results (2 s before and 2 s after the flip/turn) were measured and compared. The results showed that the IONRs-PS suffered from significant kinematic disproportion, translating a highly uneven amount of kinetic energy from the same magnitude of magnetic control. Combining the kinematic analysis, transmission electron microscopy micrographs, and vibrating sample magnetometry measurements, it was found that the IONRs-PS experienced higher fluid drag force and had lower consistency than the IONSs-PS due to its extensive open fractal nanorod structure on the bead surface and uneven magnetization, which was attributed to its ferrimagnetic nature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wai Hong Chong
- School of Chemical Engineering, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Nibong Tebal, Penang, Malaysia
| | - Derek Juinn Chieh Chan
- School of Chemical Engineering, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Nibong Tebal, Penang, Malaysia
| | - Chun-Zhao Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Biochemical Engineering & Key Laboratory of Green Process and Engineering, Institute of Process Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, P. R. China
- State Key Laboratory of Bio-fibers and Eco-textiles, Institute of Biochemical Engineering, Affiliated Qingdao Central Hospital, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Qingdao University, Qingdao, P. R. China
| | - JitKang Lim
- School of Chemical Engineering, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Nibong Tebal, Penang, Malaysia
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Sun Y, Zhang W, Gu J, Xia L, Cao Y, Zhu X, Wen H, Ouyang S, Liu R, Li J, Jiang Z, Cheng D, Lv Y, Han X, Qiu W, Cai K, Song E, Cao Q, Li L. Magnetically driven capsules with multimodal response and multifunctionality for biomedical applications. Nat Commun 2024; 15:1839. [PMID: 38424039 PMCID: PMC10904804 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-46046-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Untethered capsules hold clinical potential for the diagnosis and treatment of gastrointestinal diseases. Although considerable progress has been achieved recently in this field, the constraints imposed by the narrow spatial structure of the capsule and complex gastrointestinal tract environment cause many open-ended problems, such as poor active motion and limited medical functions. In this work, we describe the development of small-scale magnetically driven capsules with a distinct magnetic soft valve made of dual-layer ferromagnetic soft composite films. A core technological advancement achieved is the flexible opening and closing of the magnetic soft valve by using the competitive interactions between magnetic gradient force and magnetic torque, laying the foundation for the functional integration of both drug release and sampling. Meanwhile, we propose a magnetic actuation strategy based on multi-frequency response control and demonstrate that it can achieve effective decoupled regulation of the capsule's global motion and local responses. Finally, through a comprehensive approach encompassing ideal models, animal ex vivo models, and in vivo assessment, we demonstrate the versatility of the developed magnetic capsules and their multiple potential applications in the biomedical field, such as targeted drug delivery and sampling, selective dual-drug release, and light/thermal-assisted therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuxuan Sun
- Wuhan National High Magnetic Field Center, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430074, China
- State Key Laboratory of Advanced Electromagnetic Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430074, China
| | - Wang Zhang
- Wuhan National High Magnetic Field Center, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430074, China
- State Key Laboratory of Advanced Electromagnetic Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430074, China
| | - Junnan Gu
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Liangyu Xia
- Wuhan National High Magnetic Field Center, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430074, China
- State Key Laboratory of Advanced Electromagnetic Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430074, China
| | - Yinghao Cao
- Cancer Center, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Xinhui Zhu
- Wuhan National High Magnetic Field Center, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430074, China
- State Key Laboratory of Advanced Electromagnetic Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430074, China
| | - Hao Wen
- Wuhan National High Magnetic Field Center, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430074, China
- State Key Laboratory of Advanced Electromagnetic Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430074, China
| | - Shaowei Ouyang
- Wuhan National High Magnetic Field Center, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430074, China
- State Key Laboratory of Advanced Electromagnetic Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430074, China
| | - Ruiqi Liu
- Wuhan National High Magnetic Field Center, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430074, China
- State Key Laboratory of Advanced Electromagnetic Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430074, China
| | - Jialong Li
- Wuhan National High Magnetic Field Center, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430074, China
- State Key Laboratory of Advanced Electromagnetic Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430074, China
| | - Zhenxing Jiang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Denglong Cheng
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Yiliang Lv
- Wuhan National High Magnetic Field Center, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430074, China
- State Key Laboratory of Advanced Electromagnetic Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430074, China
| | - Xiaotao Han
- Wuhan National High Magnetic Field Center, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430074, China
- State Key Laboratory of Advanced Electromagnetic Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430074, China
| | - Wu Qiu
- School of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430074, China
| | - Kailin Cai
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Enmin Song
- School of Computer and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430074, China
| | - Quanliang Cao
- Wuhan National High Magnetic Field Center, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430074, China.
- State Key Laboratory of Advanced Electromagnetic Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430074, China.
| | - Liang Li
- Wuhan National High Magnetic Field Center, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430074, China.
- State Key Laboratory of Advanced Electromagnetic Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430074, China.
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46
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Dong H, Lin J, Tao Y, Jia Y, Sun L, Li WJ, Sun H. AI-enhanced biomedical micro/nanorobots in microfluidics. LAB ON A CHIP 2024; 24:1419-1440. [PMID: 38174821 DOI: 10.1039/d3lc00909b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
Human beings encompass sophisticated microcirculation and microenvironments, incorporating a broad spectrum of microfluidic systems that adopt fundamental roles in orchestrating physiological mechanisms. In vitro recapitulation of human microenvironments based on lab-on-a-chip technology represents a critical paradigm to better understand the intricate mechanisms. Moreover, the advent of micro/nanorobotics provides brand new perspectives and dynamic tools for elucidating the complex process in microfluidics. Currently, artificial intelligence (AI) has endowed micro/nanorobots (MNRs) with unprecedented benefits, such as material synthesis, optimal design, fabrication, and swarm behavior. Using advanced AI algorithms, the motion control, environment perception, and swarm intelligence of MNRs in microfluidics are significantly enhanced. This emerging interdisciplinary research trend holds great potential to propel biomedical research to the forefront and make valuable contributions to human health. Herein, we initially introduce the AI algorithms integral to the development of MNRs. We briefly revisit the components, designs, and fabrication techniques adopted by robots in microfluidics with an emphasis on the application of AI. Then, we review the latest research pertinent to AI-enhanced MNRs, focusing on their motion control, sensing abilities, and intricate collective behavior in microfluidics. Furthermore, we spotlight biomedical domains that are already witnessing or will undergo game-changing evolution based on AI-enhanced MNRs. Finally, we identify the current challenges that hinder the practical use of the pioneering interdisciplinary technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Dong
- School of Mechanical Engineering and Automation, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou, China.
- School of Mechatronics Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, China
- State Key Laboratory of Robotics and System, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, China
| | - Jiawen Lin
- School of Mechanical Engineering and Automation, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou, China.
| | - Yihui Tao
- Department of Automation Control and System Engineering, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Yuan Jia
- Sino-German College of Intelligent Manufacturing, Shenzhen Technology University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Lining Sun
- School of Mechatronics Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, China
- State Key Laboratory of Robotics and System, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, China
| | - Wen Jung Li
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Hao Sun
- School of Mechanical Engineering and Automation, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou, China.
- School of Mechatronics Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, China
- Research Center of Aerospace Mechanism and Control, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, China
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47
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Jiang F, Zheng Q, Zhao Q, Qi Z, Wu D, Li W, Wu X, Han C. Magnetic propelled hydrogel microrobots for actively enhancing the efficiency of lycorine hydrochloride to suppress colorectal cancer. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2024; 12:1361617. [PMID: 38449675 PMCID: PMC10915283 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2024.1361617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Research and development in the field of micro/nano-robots have made significant progress in the past, especially in the field of clinical medicine, where further research may lead to many revolutionary achievements. Through the research and experiment of microrobots, a controllable drug delivery system will be realized, which will solve many problems in drug treatment. In this work, we design and study the ability of magnetic-driven hydrogel microrobots to carry Lycorine hydrochloride (LH) to inhibit colorectal cancer (CRC) cells. We have successfully designed a magnetic field driven, biocompatible drug carrying hydrogel microsphere robot with Fe3O4 particles inside, which can achieve magnetic field response, and confirmed that it can transport drug through fluorescence microscope. We have successfully demonstrated the motion mode of hydrogel microrobots driven by a rotating external magnetic field. This driving method allows the microrobots to move in a precise and controllable manner, providing tremendous potential for their use in various applications. Finally, we selected drug LH and loaded it into the hydrogel microrobot for a series of experiments. LH significantly inhibited CRC cells proliferation in a dose- and time-dependent manner. LH inhibited the proliferation, mobility of CRC cells and induced apoptosis. This delivery system can significantly improve the therapeutic effect of drugs on tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fengqi Jiang
- Department of Urology, Xuzhou Clinical School of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou Central Hospital, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
- Department of General Surgery, Heilongjiang Provincial Hospital, Harbin, China
- School of Life Sciences, Jiangsu Normal University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Qiuyan Zheng
- Department of Pharmacy, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Qingsong Zhao
- Postdoctoral Programme of Meteria Medica Institute of Harbin University of Commerce, Harbin, China
| | - Zijuan Qi
- Department of Pathology, Heilongjiang Provincial Hospital, Harbin, China
| | - Di Wu
- Department of General Surgery, Heilongjiang Provincial Hospital, Harbin, China
| | - Wenzhong Li
- Department of General Surgery, Heilongjiang Provincial Hospital, Harbin, China
| | - Xiaoke Wu
- Department of Urology, Xuzhou Clinical School of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou Central Hospital, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, First Affiliated Hospital, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
| | - Conghui Han
- Department of Urology, Xuzhou Clinical School of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou Central Hospital, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
- School of Life Sciences, Jiangsu Normal University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
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48
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Debata S, Sahu S, Panda SK, Singh DP. Light-driven micromotors for on-demand and local pH sensing applications. J Mater Chem B 2024; 12:2150-2157. [PMID: 38318681 DOI: 10.1039/d3tb02760k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2024]
Abstract
In recent years, self-propelled light-driven micromotors have gained significant attention due to their capabilities for a wide range of applications, including cargo delivery, chemical sensing, environmental monitoring, etc. Here, we demonstrate the design of light-driven micromotors for local pH sensing applications. The micromotors are spherical Janus particles with multiple functional coatings that provide them with interesting features, like a dual optical response, i.e., controlled swimming under UV light (320-400 nm) and pH-dependent fluorescence signal emission when excited with blue light (450 nm), and moving path guidance using a weak external uniform magnetic field (50 G). All of these features allow the micromotors to sense the pH of the medium on-demand and locally or of a target location by guiding them to swim to the target location. The pH-dependent change in the fluorescence signal intensity is used for the measurement of the local pH of the medium. It is observed that the careful measurement of small pH changes requires a spectrometer that precisely measures the intensity change. However, the fluorescence signal of the micromotors was good enough to provide a clear visual demarcation for large pH changes. Systematic experimental studies supported by controlled experiments are performed to optimize the system as well as to calibrate the micromotors for local pH sensing applications. The characteristics like easy-to-design structure, light activation, directional swimming, and ability to measure the pH on-demand and locally prove that micromotors have the potential to revolutionize pH monitoring in various domains, including lab-on-a-chip devices, biomedical research, environmental monitoring, quality control in industrial processes, etc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Srikanta Debata
- Department of Physics, IIT Bhilai, Kutelabhata, Durg, 491001, Chhattisgarh, India.
| | - Shivani Sahu
- Department of Physics, IIT Bhilai, Kutelabhata, Durg, 491001, Chhattisgarh, India.
| | - Suvendu Kumar Panda
- Department of Physics, IIT Bhilai, Kutelabhata, Durg, 491001, Chhattisgarh, India.
| | - Dhruv Pratap Singh
- Department of Physics, IIT Bhilai, Kutelabhata, Durg, 491001, Chhattisgarh, India.
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Wang Q, Wang Q, Ning Z, Chan KF, Jiang J, Wang Y, Su L, Jiang S, Wang B, Ip BYM, Ko H, Leung TWH, Chiu PWY, Yu SCH, Zhang L. Tracking and navigation of a microswarm under laser speckle contrast imaging for targeted delivery. Sci Robot 2024; 9:eadh1978. [PMID: 38381838 DOI: 10.1126/scirobotics.adh1978] [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: 02/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024]
Abstract
Micro/nanorobotic swarms consisting of numerous tiny building blocks show great potential in biomedical applications because of their collective active delivery ability, enhanced imaging contrast, and environment-adaptive capability. However, in vivo real-time imaging and tracking of micro/nanorobotic swarms remain a challenge, considering the limited imaging size and spatial-temporal resolution of current imaging modalities. Here, we propose a strategy that enables real-time tracking and navigation of a microswarm in stagnant and flowing blood environments by using laser speckle contrast imaging (LSCI), featuring full-field imaging, high temporal-spatial resolution, and noninvasiveness. The change in dynamic convection induced by the microswarm can be quantitatively investigated by analyzing the perfusion unit (PU) distribution, offering an alternative approach to investigate the swarm behavior and its interaction with various blood environments. Both the microswarm and surrounding environment were monitored and imaged by LSCI in real time, and the images were further analyzed for simultaneous swarm tracking and navigation in the complex vascular system. Moreover, our strategy realized real-time tracking and delivery of a microswarm in vivo, showing promising potential for LSCI-guided active delivery of microswarm in the vascular system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qinglong Wang
- Department of Mechanical and Automation Engineering, Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK), Shatin, N.T., Hong Kong, China
| | - Qianqian Wang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Design and Manufacture of Micro-Nano Biomedical Instruments, School of Mechanical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Zhipeng Ning
- Department of Mechanical and Automation Engineering, Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK), Shatin, N.T., Hong Kong, China
| | - Kai Fung Chan
- Chow Yuk Ho Technology Centre for Innovative Medicine, CUHK, Shatin, N.T., Hong Kong, China
- Multi-Scale Medical Robotics Center, Hong Kong Science Park, Shatin, N.T., Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Jialin Jiang
- Department of Mechanical and Automation Engineering, Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK), Shatin, N.T., Hong Kong, China
| | - Yuqiong Wang
- Department of Mechanical and Automation Engineering, Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK), Shatin, N.T., Hong Kong, China
| | - Lin Su
- Department of Mechanical and Automation Engineering, Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK), Shatin, N.T., Hong Kong, China
| | - Shuai Jiang
- Department of Mechanical and Automation Engineering, Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK), Shatin, N.T., Hong Kong, China
| | - Ben Wang
- College of Chemistry and Environmental Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Bonaventure Yiu Ming Ip
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, CUHK, Shatin, N.T., Hong Kong, China
| | - Ho Ko
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, CUHK, Shatin, N.T., Hong Kong, China
| | - Thomas Wai Hong Leung
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, CUHK, Shatin, N.T., Hong Kong, China
| | - Philip Wai Yan Chiu
- Chow Yuk Ho Technology Centre for Innovative Medicine, CUHK, Shatin, N.T., Hong Kong, China
- Multi-Scale Medical Robotics Center, Hong Kong Science Park, Shatin, N.T., Hong Kong SAR, China
- Department of Surgery, CUHK, Shatin, N.T., Hong Kong, China
| | - Simon Chun Ho Yu
- Department of Imaging and Interventional Radiology, CUHK, Shatin, N.T., Hong Kong, China
| | - Li Zhang
- Department of Mechanical and Automation Engineering, Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK), Shatin, N.T., Hong Kong, China
- Chow Yuk Ho Technology Centre for Innovative Medicine, CUHK, Shatin, N.T., Hong Kong, China
- Multi-Scale Medical Robotics Center, Hong Kong Science Park, Shatin, N.T., Hong Kong SAR, China
- Department of Surgery, CUHK, Shatin, N.T., Hong Kong, China
- CUHK T Stone Robotics Institute, CUHK, Shatin, N.T., Hong Kong, China
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50
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den Hoed FM, Carlotti M, Palagi S, Raffa P, Mattoli V. Evolution of the Microrobots: Stimuli-Responsive Materials and Additive Manufacturing Technologies Turn Small Structures into Microscale Robots. MICROMACHINES 2024; 15:275. [PMID: 38399003 PMCID: PMC10893381 DOI: 10.3390/mi15020275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2023] [Revised: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024]
Abstract
The development of functional microsystems and microrobots that have characterized the last decade is the result of a synergistic and effective interaction between the progress of fabrication techniques and the increased availability of smart and responsive materials to be employed in the latter. Functional structures on the microscale have been relevant for a vast plethora of technologies that find application in different sectors including automotive, sensing devices, and consumer electronics, but are now also entering medical clinics. Working on or inside the human body requires increasing complexity and functionality on an ever-smaller scale, which is becoming possible as a result of emerging technology and smart materials over the past decades. In recent years, additive manufacturing has risen to the forefront of this evolution as the most prominent method to fabricate complex 3D structures. In this review, we discuss the rapid 3D manufacturing techniques that have emerged and how they have enabled a great leap in microrobotic applications. The arrival of smart materials with inherent functionalities has propelled microrobots to great complexity and complex applications. We focus on which materials are important for actuation and what the possibilities are for supplying the required energy. Furthermore, we provide an updated view of a new generation of microrobots in terms of both materials and fabrication technology. While two-photon lithography may be the state-of-the-art technology at the moment, in terms of resolution and design freedom, new methods such as two-step are on the horizon. In the more distant future, innovations like molecular motors could make microscale robots redundant and bring about nanofabrication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frank Marco den Hoed
- Center for Materials Interfaces, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Via R. Piaggio 34, 56025 Pontedera, Italy;
- Smart and Sustainable Polymeric Products, Engineering and Technology Institute Groningen (ENTEG), University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 4, 9747 AG Groningen, The Netherlands;
| | - Marco Carlotti
- Center for Materials Interfaces, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Via R. Piaggio 34, 56025 Pontedera, Italy;
- Dipartimento di Chimica e Chimica Industriale, University of Pisa, Via Moruzzi 13, 56124 Pisa, Italy
| | - Stefano Palagi
- BioRobotics Institute, Sant’Anna School of Advanced Studies, P.zza Martiri della Libertà 33, 56127 Pisa, Italy;
| | - Patrizio Raffa
- Smart and Sustainable Polymeric Products, Engineering and Technology Institute Groningen (ENTEG), University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 4, 9747 AG Groningen, The Netherlands;
| | - Virgilio Mattoli
- Center for Materials Interfaces, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Via R. Piaggio 34, 56025 Pontedera, Italy;
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