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Dong C, Carnicer-Lombarte A, Bonafè F, Huang B, Middya S, Jin A, Tao X, Han S, Bance M, Barone DG, Fraboni B, Malliaras GG. Electrochemically actuated microelectrodes for minimally invasive peripheral nerve interfaces. NATURE MATERIALS 2024; 23:969-976. [PMID: 38671159 PMCID: PMC11230894 DOI: 10.1038/s41563-024-01886-0] [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: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 03/31/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
Electrode arrays that interface with peripheral nerves are used in the diagnosis and treatment of neurological disorders; however, they require complex placement surgeries that carry a high risk of nerve injury. Here we leverage recent advances in soft robotic actuators and flexible electronics to develop highly conformable nerve cuffs that combine electrochemically driven conducting-polymer-based soft actuators with low-impedance microelectrodes. Driven with applied voltages as small as a few hundreds of millivolts, these cuffs allow active grasping or wrapping around delicate nerves. We validate this technology using in vivo rat models, showing that the cuffs form and maintain a self-closing and reliable bioelectronic interface with the sciatic nerve of rats without the use of surgical sutures or glues. This seamless integration of soft electrochemical actuators with neurotechnology offers a path towards minimally invasive intraoperative monitoring of nerve activity and high-quality bioelectronic interfaces.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chaoqun Dong
- Electrical Engineering Division, Department of Engineering, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | | | - Filippo Bonafè
- Electrical Engineering Division, Department of Engineering, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Botian Huang
- Electrical Engineering Division, Department of Engineering, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Sagnik Middya
- Electrical Engineering Division, Department of Engineering, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Amy Jin
- Electrical Engineering Division, Department of Engineering, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Xudong Tao
- Electrical Engineering Division, Department of Engineering, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Sanggil Han
- Electrical Engineering Division, Department of Engineering, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Department of Nano-Bioengineering, Incheon National University, Incheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Manohar Bance
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Damiano G Barone
- Electrical Engineering Division, Department of Engineering, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Beatrice Fraboni
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - George G Malliaras
- Electrical Engineering Division, Department of Engineering, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.
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2
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Miyabe S, Fujinaga Y, Tsuchiya H, Fujimoto S. TiO 2 nanotubes with customized diameters for local drug delivery systems. J Biomed Mater Res B Appl Biomater 2024; 112:e35445. [PMID: 38946669 DOI: 10.1002/jbm.b.35445] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2024] [Revised: 05/02/2024] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 07/02/2024]
Abstract
In this study, we evaluated the drug release behavior of diameter customized TiO2 nanotube layers fabricated by anodization with various applied voltage sequences: conventional constant applied potentials of 20 V (45 nm) and 60 V (80 nm), a 20/60 V stepped potential (50 nm [two-diameter]), and a 20-60 V swept potential (49 nm [full-tapered]) (values in parentheses indicate the inner tube diameter at the top part of nanotube layers). The structures of the 50 nm (two-diameter) and 49 nm (full-tapered) samples had smaller inner diameters at the top part of nanotube layers than that of the 80 nm sample, while the outer diameters at the bottom part of nanotube layers were almost the same size as the 80 nm sample. The 80 nm sample, which had the largest nanotube diameter and length, exhibited the greatest burst release, followed by the 50 nm (two-diameter), 49 nm (full-tapered), and 45 nm samples. The initial burst released drug amounts and release rates from the 50 nm (two-diameter) and 49 nm (full-tapered) samples were significantly suppressed by the smaller tube top. On the other hand, the largest proportion of the slow released drug amount to the total released drug amount was observed for the 50 nm (two-diameter) sample. Thus, 50 nm (two-diameter) achieved suppressed initial burst release and large storage capacity. Therefore, this study has, for the first time, applied TiO2 nanotube layers with modulated diameters (two-diameter and full-tapered) to the realization of a localized drug delivery system (LDDS) with customized drug release properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sayaka Miyabe
- Division of Materials and Manufacturing Science, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Yushi Fujinaga
- Division of Materials and Manufacturing Science, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Hiroaki Tsuchiya
- Division of Materials and Manufacturing Science, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Shinji Fujimoto
- Division of Materials and Manufacturing Science, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
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3
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Jeong M, Tan X, Fischer F, Qiu T. A Convoy of Magnetic Millirobots Transports Endoscopic Instruments for Minimally-Invasive Surgery. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024:e2308382. [PMID: 38946679 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202308382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2023] [Revised: 06/13/2024] [Indexed: 07/02/2024]
Abstract
Small-scale robots offer significant potential in minimally invasive medical procedures. Due to the nature of soft biological tissues, however, robots are exposed to complex environments with various challenges in locomotion, which is essential to overcome for useful medical tasks. A single mini-robot often provides insufficient force on slippery biological surfaces to carry medical instruments, such as a fluid catheter or an electrical wire. Here, for the first time, a team of millirobots (TrainBot) is reported to generate around two times higher actuating force than a TrainBot unit by forming a convoy to collaboratively carry long and heavy cargos. The feet of each unit are optimized to increase the propulsive force around three times so that it can effectively crawl on slippery biological surfaces. A human-scale permanent magnetic set-up is developed to wirelessly actuate and control the TrainBot to transport heavy and lengthy loads through narrow biological lumens, such as the intestine and the bile duct. The first electrocauterization performed by the TrainBot is demonstrated to relieve a biliary obstruction and open a tunnel for fluid drainage and drug delivery. The developed technology sheds light on the collaborative strategy of small-scale robots for future minimally invasive surgical procedures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moonkwang Jeong
- Cyber Valley group - Biomedical Microsystems, Institute of Physical Chemistry, University of Stuttgart, Pfaffenwaldring 55, 70569, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Xiangzhou Tan
- Department of General Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China
| | - Felix Fischer
- Division of Smart Technologies for Tumor Therapy, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) Site Dresden, Blasewitzer Str. 80, 01307, Dresden, Germany
- Faculty of Engineering Sciences, University of Heidelberg, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Tian Qiu
- Division of Smart Technologies for Tumor Therapy, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) Site Dresden, Blasewitzer Str. 80, 01307, Dresden, Germany
- Faculty of Medicine Carl Gustav Carus, Dresden University of Technology, 01307, Dresden, Germany
- Faculty of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Dresden University of Technology, 01069, Dresden, Germany
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4
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Quan K, Mao Z, Lu Y, Qin Y, Wang S, Yu C, Bi X, Tang H, Ren X, Chen D, Cheng Y, Wang Y, Zheng Y, Xia D. Composited silk fibroins ensured adhesion stability and magnetic controllability of Fe 3O 4-nanoparticle coating on implant for biofilm treatment. MATERIALS HORIZONS 2024; 11:3157-3165. [PMID: 38629215 DOI: 10.1039/d4mh00097h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/02/2024]
Abstract
Magnetic propulsion of nano-/micro-robots is an effective way to treat implant-associated infections by physically destroying biofilm structures to enhance antibiotic killing. However, it is hard to precisely control the propulsion in vivo. Magnetic-nanoparticle coating that can be magnetically pulled off does not need precise control, but the requirement of adhesion stability on an implant surface restricts its magnetic responsiveness. Moreover, whether the coating has been fully pulled-off or not is hard to ensure in real-time in vivo. Herein, composited silk fibroins (SFMA) are optimized to stabilize Fe3O4 nanoparticles on a titanium surface in a dry environment; while in an aqueous environment, the binding force of SFMA on titanium is significantly reduced due to hydrophilic interaction, making the coating magnetically controllable by an externally-used magnet but still stable in the absence of a magnet. The maximum working distance of the magnet can be calculated using magnetomechanical simulation in which the yielding magnetic traction force is strong enough to pull Fe3O4 nanoparticles off the surface. The pulling-off removes the biofilms that formed on the coating and enhances antibiotic killing both in vitro and in a rat sub-cutaneous implant model by up to 100 fold. This work contributes to the practical knowledge of magnetic propulsion for biofilm treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kecheng Quan
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China.
| | - Zhinan Mao
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China.
| | - Yupu Lu
- Department of Dental Materials, Peking University School and Hospital of Stomatology, & National Center of Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases & National Engineering Research Center of Oral Biomaterials and Digital Medical Devices & Beijing Key Laboratory of Digital Stomatology & Research Center of Engineering and Technology for Computerized Dentistry Ministry of Health & NMPA Key Laboratory for Dental Materials, Beijing 100081, China.
| | - Yu Qin
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China.
| | - Shuren Wang
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China.
| | - Chunhao Yu
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China.
| | - Xuewei Bi
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China.
| | - Hao Tang
- Department of Dental Materials, Peking University School and Hospital of Stomatology, & National Center of Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases & National Engineering Research Center of Oral Biomaterials and Digital Medical Devices & Beijing Key Laboratory of Digital Stomatology & Research Center of Engineering and Technology for Computerized Dentistry Ministry of Health & NMPA Key Laboratory for Dental Materials, Beijing 100081, China.
| | - Xiaoxiang Ren
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Shanghai University, Shanghai, 200444, China
| | - Dafu Chen
- Laboratory of Bone Tissue Engineering, Beijing Laboratory of Biomedical Materials, National Center for Orthopaedics, Beijing Research Institute of Traumatology and Orthopaedics, Beijing Jishuitan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100035, China.
| | - Yan Cheng
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China.
| | - Yong Wang
- Center of Digital Dentistry, Peking University School and Hospital of Stomatology, Beijing, 100081, China.
| | - Yufeng Zheng
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China.
| | - Dandan Xia
- Department of Dental Materials, Peking University School and Hospital of Stomatology, & National Center of Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases & National Engineering Research Center of Oral Biomaterials and Digital Medical Devices & Beijing Key Laboratory of Digital Stomatology & Research Center of Engineering and Technology for Computerized Dentistry Ministry of Health & NMPA Key Laboratory for Dental Materials, Beijing 100081, China.
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5
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Babeer A, Bukhari S, Alrehaili R, Karabucak B, Koo H. Microrobotics in endodontics: A perspective. Int Endod J 2024; 57:861-871. [PMID: 38761098 DOI: 10.1111/iej.14082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2023] [Revised: 04/28/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/20/2024]
Abstract
Microorganisms are the primary aetiological factor of apical periodontitis. The goal of endodontic treatment is to prevent and eliminate the infection by removing the microorganisms. However, microbial biofilms and the complex root canal anatomy impair the disinfection process. Effective and precise endodontic therapy could potentially be achieved using advanced multifunctional technologies that have the ability to access hard-to-reach surfaces and perform simultaneous biofilm killing, removal, and detection of microorganisms. Advances in microrobotics are providing novel therapeutic and diagnostic opportunities with high precision and efficacy to address current biofilm-related challenges in biomedicine. Concurrently, multifunctional magnetic microrobots have been developed to overcome the disinfection challenges of current approaches to disrupt, kill, and retrieve biofilms with the goal of enhancing the efficacy and precision of endodontic therapy. This article reviews the recent advances of microrobotics in healthcare and particularly advances to overcome disinfection challenges in endodontics, and provides perspectives for future research in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alaa Babeer
- Department of Oral Biology, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
- Department of Endodontics, School of Dental Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Sarah Bukhari
- Department of Endodontics, School of Dental Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
- Department of Endodontics, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Rayan Alrehaili
- Department of Endodontics, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Bekir Karabucak
- Department of Endodontics, School of Dental Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Hyun Koo
- Biofilm Research Labs, Department of Orthodontics, Divisions of Pediatric Dentistry and Community of Oral Health, School of Dental Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
- Center for Innovation and Precision Dentistry, School of Dental Medicine, School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
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6
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Li Z, Duan Y, Zhang F, Luan H, Shen WT, Yu Y, Xian N, Guo Z, Zhang E, Yin L, Fang RH, Gao W, Zhang L, Wang J. Biohybrid microrobots regulate colonic cytokines and the epithelium barrier in inflammatory bowel disease. Sci Robot 2024; 9:eadl2007. [PMID: 38924422 DOI: 10.1126/scirobotics.adl2007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
Cytokines have been identified as key contributors to the development of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), yet conventional treatments often prove inadequate and carry substantial side effects. Here, we present an innovative biohybrid robotic system, termed "algae-MΦNP-robot," for addressing IBD by actively neutralizing colonic cytokine levels. Our approach combines moving green microalgae with macrophage membrane-coated nanoparticles (MΦNPs) to efficiently capture proinflammatory cytokines "on the fly." The dynamic algae-MΦNP-robots outperformed static counterparts by enhancing cytokine removal through continuous movement, better distribution, and extended retention in the colon. This system is encapsulated in an oral capsule, which shields it from gastric acidity and ensures functionality upon reaching the targeted disease site. The resulting algae-MΦNP-robot capsule effectively regulated cytokine levels, facilitating the healing of damaged epithelial barriers. It showed markedly improved prevention and treatment efficacy in a mouse model of IBD and demonstrated an excellent biosafety profile. Overall, our biohybrid algae-MΦNP-robot system offers a promising and efficient solution for IBD, addressing cytokine-related inflammation effectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhengxing Li
- Department of Nanoengineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Yaou Duan
- Department of Nanoengineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Fangyu Zhang
- Department of Nanoengineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Hao Luan
- Department of Nanoengineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Wei-Ting Shen
- Department of Nanoengineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Yiyan Yu
- Department of Nanoengineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Nianfei Xian
- Department of Nanoengineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Zhongyuan Guo
- Department of Nanoengineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Edward Zhang
- Department of Nanoengineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Lu Yin
- Department of Nanoengineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Ronnie H Fang
- Department of Nanoengineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Weiwei Gao
- Department of Nanoengineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Liangfang Zhang
- Department of Nanoengineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Joseph Wang
- Department of Nanoengineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
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7
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Li W, Liu B, Ou L, Li G, Lei D, Xiong Z, Xu H, Wang J, Tang J, Li D. Arbitrary Construction of Versatile NIR-Driven Microrobots. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2024:e2402482. [PMID: 38940072 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202402482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2024] [Revised: 06/03/2024] [Indexed: 06/29/2024]
Abstract
Emerging light-driven micro/nanorobots (LMNRs) showcase profound potential for sophisticated manipulation and various applications. However, the realization of a versatile and straightforward fabrication technique remains a challenging pursuit. This study introduces an innovative bulk heterojunction organic semiconductor solar cell (OSC)-based spin-coating approach, aiming to facilitate the arbitrary construction of LMNRs. Leveraging the distinctive properties of a near-infrared (NIR)-responsive organic semiconductor heterojunction solution, this technique enables uniform coating across various dimensional structures (0D, 1D, 2D, 3D) to be LMNRs, denoted as "motorization." The film, with a slender profile measuring ≈140 nm in thickness, effectively preserves the original morphology of objects while imparting actuation capabilities exceeding hundreds of times their own weight. The propelled motion of these microrobots is realized through NIR-driven photoelectrochemical reaction-induced self-diffusiophoresis, showcasing a versatile array of controllable motion profiles. The strategic customization of arbitrary microrobot construction addresses specific applications, ranging from 0D microrobots inducing living crystal formation to intricate, multidimensional structures designed for tasks such as microplastic extraction, cargo delivery, and phototactic precise maneuvers. This study advances user-friendly and versatile LMNR technologies, unlocking new possibilities for various applications, signaling a transformative era in multifunctional micro/nanorobot technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wanyuan Li
- College of Chemistry and Materials Science, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, P. R. China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Supramolecular Coordination Chemistry, Jinan University, Guangzhou, P. R. China
| | - Baiyao Liu
- College of Chemistry and Materials Science, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, P. R. China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Supramolecular Coordination Chemistry, Jinan University, Guangzhou, P. R. China
| | - Leyan Ou
- College of Chemistry and Materials Science, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, P. R. China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Supramolecular Coordination Chemistry, Jinan University, Guangzhou, P. R. China
| | - Gangzhou Li
- College of Chemistry and Materials Science, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, P. R. China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Supramolecular Coordination Chemistry, Jinan University, Guangzhou, P. R. China
| | - Dapeng Lei
- College of Chemistry and Materials Science, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, P. R. China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Supramolecular Coordination Chemistry, Jinan University, Guangzhou, P. R. China
| | - Ze Xiong
- Wireless and Smart Bioelectronics Lab, School of Biomedical Engineering, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, 201210, P. R. China
| | - Huihua Xu
- College of Chemistry and Materials Science, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, P. R. China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Supramolecular Coordination Chemistry, Jinan University, Guangzhou, P. R. China
| | - Jizhuang Wang
- College of Chemistry and Materials Science, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, P. R. China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Supramolecular Coordination Chemistry, Jinan University, Guangzhou, P. R. China
| | - Jinyao Tang
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong, 999077, P. R. China
| | - Dan Li
- College of Chemistry and Materials Science, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, P. R. China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Supramolecular Coordination Chemistry, Jinan University, Guangzhou, P. R. China
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8
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Zhang F, Guo Z, Li Z, Luan H, Yu Y, Zhu AT, Ding S, Gao W, Fang RH, Zhang L, Wang J. Biohybrid microrobots locally and actively deliver drug-loaded nanoparticles to inhibit the progression of lung metastasis. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2024; 10:eadn6157. [PMID: 38865468 PMCID: PMC11168470 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adn6157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024]
Abstract
Lung metastasis poses a formidable challenge in the realm of cancer treatment, with conventional chemotherapy often falling short due to limited targeting and low accumulation in the lungs. Here, we show a microrobot approach using motile algae for localized delivery of drug-loaded nanoparticles to address lung metastasis challenges. The biohybrid microrobot [denoted "algae-NP(DOX)-robot"] combines green microalgae with red blood cell membrane-coated nanoparticles containing doxorubicin, a representative chemotherapeutic drug. Microalgae provide autonomous propulsion in the lungs, leveraging controlled drug release and enhanced drug dispersion to exert antimetastatic effects. Upon intratracheal administration, algae-NP(DOX)-robots efficiently transport their drug payload deep into the lungs while maintaining continuous motility. This strategy leads to rapid drug distribution, improved tissue accumulation, and prolonged retention compared to passive drug-loaded nanoparticles and free drug controls. In a melanoma lung metastasis model, algae-NP(DOX)-robots exhibit substantial improvement in therapeutic efficacy, reducing metastatic burden and extending survival compared to control groups.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Hao Luan
- Department of NanoEngineering and Chemical Engineering Program, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Yiyan Yu
- Department of NanoEngineering and Chemical Engineering Program, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Audrey T. Zhu
- Department of NanoEngineering and Chemical Engineering Program, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Shichao Ding
- Department of NanoEngineering and Chemical Engineering Program, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Weiwei Gao
- Department of NanoEngineering and Chemical Engineering Program, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Ronnie H. Fang
- Department of NanoEngineering and Chemical Engineering Program, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | | | - Joseph Wang
- Department of NanoEngineering and Chemical Engineering Program, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
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9
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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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10
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Wang W, Fu R, Gao R, Luo L, Wang Z, Xue Y, Sun J, Pan M, Hong M, Qiao L, Qiao W, Mei Q, Wu J, Wang Y, Zhong Y, Liu J, Tong F. H 2S-Powered Nanomotors for Active Therapy of Tumors by Inducing Ferroptosis and Lactate-Pyruvate Axis Disorders. ACS Biomater Sci Eng 2024; 10:3994-4008. [PMID: 38736179 DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomaterials.3c01665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/14/2024]
Abstract
Disruption of the symbiosis of extra/intratumoral metabolism is a good strategy for treating tumors that shuttle resources from the tumor microenvironment. Here, we report a precision treatment strategy for enhancing pyruvic acid and intratumoral acidosis to destroy tumoral metabolic symbiosis to eliminate tumors; this approach is based on PEGylated gold and lactate oxidase-modified aminated dendritic mesoporous silica with lonidamine and ferrous sulfide loading (PEG-Au@DMSNs/FeS/LND@LOX). In the tumor microenvironment, LOX oxidizes lactic acid to produce pyruvate, which represses tumor cell proliferation by inhibiting histone gene expression and induces ferroptosis by partial histone monoubiquitination. In acidic tumor conditions, the nanoparticles release H2S gas and Fe2+ ions, which can inhibit catalase activity to promote the Fenton reaction of Fe2+, resulting in massive ·OH production and ferroptosis via Fe3+. More interestingly, the combination of H2S and LND (a monocarboxylic acid transporter inhibitor) can cause intracellular acidosis by lactate, and protons overaccumulate in cells. Multiple intracellular acidosis is caused by lactate-pyruvate axis disorders. Moreover, H2S provides motive power to intensify the shuttling of nanoparticles in the tumor region. The findings confirm that this nanomedicine system can enable precise antitumor effects by disrupting extra/intratumoral metabolic symbiosis and inducing ferroptosis and represents a promising active drug delivery system candidate for tumor treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weixin Wang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, 264003, PR China
| | - Renquan Fu
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Biological Resources of Ministry of Education and One Health Institute, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China
| | - Rui Gao
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, 264003, PR China
| | - Lei Luo
- Institute of Molecular Medicine (IMM), Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Zhongchao Wang
- Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030001, PR China
| | - Yingli Xue
- Xi'an Medical University, Xi'an, 710000, PR China
| | - Jiahui Sun
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, 264003, PR China
| | - Min Pan
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, 264003, PR China
| | - Miaofang Hong
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, 264003, PR China
| | - Lingyan Qiao
- Clinical Medical College, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, 264003, PR China
| | - Weiwei Qiao
- Clinical Medical College, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, 264003, PR China
| | - Qibing Mei
- Education Ministry Key Laboratory of Medical Electrophysiology, Sichuan Key Medical Laboratory of New Drug Discovery and Druggability Evaluation, Luzhou; Key Laboratory of Activity Screening and Druggability Evaluation for Chinese Materia Medica, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, China
| | - Jianming Wu
- Education Ministry Key Laboratory of Medical Electrophysiology, Sichuan Key Medical Laboratory of New Drug Discovery and Druggability Evaluation, Luzhou; Key Laboratory of Activity Screening and Druggability Evaluation for Chinese Materia Medica, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, China
| | - Yini Wang
- Clinical Medical College, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, 264003, PR China
| | - Yali Zhong
- Southwest University of Science and Technology, 621000 Mianyang, China
| | - Jin Liu
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Biological Resources of Ministry of Education and One Health Institute, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China
| | - Fei Tong
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, 264003, PR China
- Education Ministry Key Laboratory of Medical Electrophysiology, Sichuan Key Medical Laboratory of New Drug Discovery and Druggability Evaluation, Luzhou; Key Laboratory of Activity Screening and Druggability Evaluation for Chinese Materia Medica, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, China
- School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, 310000 Hangzhou, China
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11
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Wang J, Wu H, Zhu X, Zwolsman R, Hofstraat SRJ, Li Y, Luo Y, Joosten RRM, Friedrich H, Cao S, Abdelmohsen LKEA, Shao J, van Hest JCM. Ultrafast light-activated polymeric nanomotors. Nat Commun 2024; 15:4878. [PMID: 38849362 PMCID: PMC11161643 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-49217-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Synthetic micro/nanomotors have been extensively exploited over the past decade to achieve active transportation. This interest is a result of their broad range of potential applications, from environmental remediation to nanomedicine. Nevertheless, it still remains a challenge to build a fast-moving biodegradable polymeric nanomotor. Here we present a light-propelled nanomotor by introducing gold nanoparticles (Au NP) onto biodegradable bowl-shaped polymersomes (stomatocytes) via electrostatic and hydrogen bond interactions. These biodegradable nanomotors show controllable motion and remarkable velocities of up to 125 μm s-1. This unique behavior is explained via a thorough three-dimensional characterization of the nanomotor, particularly the size and the spatial distribution of Au NP, with cryogenic transmission electron microscopy (cryo-TEM) and cryo-electron tomography (cryo-ET). Our in-depth quantitative 3D analysis reveals that the motile features of these nanomotors are caused by the nonuniform distribution of Au NPs on the outer surface of the stomatocyte along the z-axial direction. Their excellent motile features are exploited for active cargo delivery into living cells. This study provides a new approach to develop robust, biodegradable soft nanomotors with application potential in biomedicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianhong Wang
- Bio-Organic Chemistry, Departments of Biomedical Engineering and Chemical Engineering & Chemistry, Institute for Complex Molecular Systems, Eindhoven University of Technology, 5600 MB, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Hanglong Wu
- Bio-Organic Chemistry, Departments of Biomedical Engineering and Chemical Engineering & Chemistry, Institute for Complex Molecular Systems, Eindhoven University of Technology, 5600 MB, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Xiaowei Zhu
- School of Aeronautic Science and Engineering, Beihang University, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Robby Zwolsman
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, 5600 MB, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Stijn R J Hofstraat
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, 5600 MB, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Yudong Li
- Bio-Organic Chemistry, Departments of Biomedical Engineering and Chemical Engineering & Chemistry, Institute for Complex Molecular Systems, Eindhoven University of Technology, 5600 MB, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Yingtong Luo
- Bio-Organic Chemistry, Departments of Biomedical Engineering and Chemical Engineering & Chemistry, Institute for Complex Molecular Systems, Eindhoven University of Technology, 5600 MB, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Rick R M Joosten
- Laboratory of Physical Chemistry, Department of Chemical Engineering & Chemistry, Center for Multiscale Electron Microscopy and Institute for Complex Molecular Systems, Eindhoven University of Technology, 5600 MB, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Heiner Friedrich
- Laboratory of Physical Chemistry, Department of Chemical Engineering & Chemistry, Center for Multiscale Electron Microscopy and Institute for Complex Molecular Systems, Eindhoven University of Technology, 5600 MB, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Shoupeng Cao
- College of Polymer Science and Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610065, PR China
| | - Loai K E A Abdelmohsen
- Bio-Organic Chemistry, Departments of Biomedical Engineering and Chemical Engineering & Chemistry, Institute for Complex Molecular Systems, Eindhoven University of Technology, 5600 MB, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Jingxin Shao
- Bio-Organic Chemistry, Departments of Biomedical Engineering and Chemical Engineering & Chemistry, Institute for Complex Molecular Systems, Eindhoven University of Technology, 5600 MB, Eindhoven, The Netherlands.
| | - Jan C M van Hest
- Bio-Organic Chemistry, Departments of Biomedical Engineering and Chemical Engineering & Chemistry, Institute for Complex Molecular Systems, Eindhoven University of Technology, 5600 MB, Eindhoven, The Netherlands.
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12
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Tan R, Yang X, Lu H, Shen Y. One-step formation of polymorphous sperm-like microswimmers by vortex turbulence-assisted microfluidics. Nat Commun 2024; 15:4761. [PMID: 38834563 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-49043-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2022] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Microswimmers are considered promising candidates for active cargo delivery to benefit a wide spectrum of biomedical applications. Yet, big challenges still remain in designing the microswimmers with effective propelling, desirable loading and adaptive releasing abilities all in one. Inspired by the morphology and biofunction of spermatozoa, we report a one-step formation strategy of polymorphous sperm-like magnetic microswimmers (PSMs) by developing a vortex turbulence-assisted microfluidics (VTAM) platform. The fabricated PSM is biodegradable with a core-shell head and flexible tail, and their morphology can be adjusted by vortex flow rotation speed and calcium chloride solution concentration. Benefiting from the sperm-like design, our PSM exhibits both effective motion ability under remote mag/netic actuation and protective encapsulation ability for material loading. Further, it can also realize the stable sustain release after alginate-chitosan-alginate (ACA) layer coating modification. This research proposes and verifies a new strategy for the sperm-like microswimmer construction, offering an alternative solution for the target delivery of diverse drugs and biologics for future biomedical treatment. Moreover, the proposed VTAM could also be a general method for other sophisticated polymorphous structures fabrication that isn't achievable by conventional laminar flow.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rong Tan
- Department of Electronic and Computer Engineering, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Hong Kong, China
| | - Xiong Yang
- Department of Electronic and Computer Engineering, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Hong Kong, China
| | - Haojian Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Industrial Control and Technology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310027, China
- Institute of Cyber-Systems and Control, the Department of Control Science and Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310027, China
| | - Yajing Shen
- Department of Electronic and Computer Engineering, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Hong Kong, China.
- Center for Smart Manufacturing, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Hong Kong, China.
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13
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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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14
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Sun M, Yang S, Jiang J, Wang Q, Zhang L. Multiple Magneto-Optical Microrobotic Collectives with Selective Control in Three Dimensions Under Water. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2024; 20:e2310769. [PMID: 38263803 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202310769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2023] [Revised: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/25/2024]
Abstract
Inspired by natural swarms, various methods are developed to create artificial magnetic microrobotic collectives. However, these magnetic collectives typically receive identical control inputs from a common external magnetic field, limiting their ability to operate independently. And they often rely on interfaces or boundaries for controlled movement, posing challenges for independent, three-dimensional(3D) navigation of multiple magnetic collectives. To address this challenge, self-assembled microrobotic collectives are proposed that can be selectively actuated in a combination of external magnetic and optical fields. By harnessing both actuation methods, the constraints of single actuation approaches are overcome. The magnetic field excites the self-assembly of colloids and maintains the self-assembled microrobotic collectives without disassembly, while the optical field drives selected microrobotic collectives to perform different tasks. The proposed magnetic-photo microrobotic collectives can achieve independent position and path control in the two-dimensional (2D) plane and 3D space. With this selective control strategy, the microrobotic collectives can cooperate in convection and mixing the dye in a confined space. The results present a systematic approach for realizing selective control of multiple microrobotic collectives, which can address multitasking requirements in complex environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengmeng Sun
- Department of Mechanical and Automation Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- Physical Intelligence Department, Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems, Heisenbergstr. 3, 70569, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Shihao Yang
- Department of Mechanical and Automation Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Jialin Jiang
- Department of Mechanical and Automation Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Qianqian Wang
- Chow Yuk Ho Technology Center for Innovative Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Li Zhang
- Department of Mechanical and Automation Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- Multi-Scale Medical Robotics Center, Hong Kong Science Park, Shatin NT, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Department of Surgery, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- CUHK T Stone Robotics Institute, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing, 211189, China
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15
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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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16
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Bozuyuk U, Wrede P, Yildiz E, Sitti M. Roadmap for Clinical Translation of Mobile Microrobotics. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2024; 36:e2311462. [PMID: 38380776 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202311462] [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: 10/31/2023] [Revised: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024]
Abstract
Medical microrobotics is an emerging field to revolutionize clinical applications in diagnostics and therapeutics of various diseases. On the other hand, the mobile microrobotics field has important obstacles to pass before clinical translation. This article focuses on these challenges and provides a roadmap of medical microrobots to enable their clinical use. From the concept of a "magic bullet" to the physicochemical interactions of microrobots in complex biological environments in medical applications, there are several translational steps to consider. Clinical translation of mobile microrobots is only possible with a close collaboration between clinical experts and microrobotics researchers to address the technical challenges in microfabrication, safety, and imaging. The clinical application potential can be materialized by designing microrobots that can solve the current main challenges, such as actuation limitations, material stability, and imaging constraints. The strengths and weaknesses of the current progress in the microrobotics field are discussed and a roadmap for their clinical applications in the near future is outlined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ugur Bozuyuk
- Physical Intelligence Department, Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems, 70569, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Paul Wrede
- Physical Intelligence Department, Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems, 70569, Stuttgart, Germany
- Institute for Biomedical Engineering, ETH Zurich, Zurich, 8093, Switzerland
| | - Erdost Yildiz
- Physical Intelligence Department, Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems, 70569, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Metin Sitti
- Physical Intelligence Department, Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems, 70569, Stuttgart, Germany
- School of Medicine and College of Engineering, Koc University, Istanbul, 34450, Turkey
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17
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Wang W, Luo H, Wang H. Recent advances in micro/nanomotors for antibacterial applications. J Mater Chem B 2024; 12:5000-5023. [PMID: 38712692 DOI: 10.1039/d3tb02718j] [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: 05/08/2024]
Abstract
Currently, the rapid spread of multidrug-resistant bacteria derived from the indiscriminate use of traditional antibiotics poses a significant threat to public health worldwide. Moreover, established bacterial biofilms are extremely difficult to eradicate because of their high tolerance to traditional antimicrobial agents and extraordinary resistance to phagocytosis. Hence, it is of universal significance to develop novel robust and efficient antibacterial strategies to combat bacterial infections. Micro/nanomotors exhibit many intriguing properties, including enhanced mass transfer and micro-mixing resulting from their locomotion, intrinsic antimicrobial capabilities, active cargo delivery, and targeted treatment with precise micromanipulation, which facilitate the targeted delivery of antimicrobials to infected sites and their deep permeation into sites of bacterial biofilms for fast inactivation. Thus, the ideal antimicrobial activity of antibacterial micro/nanorobots makes them desirable alternatives to traditional antimicrobial treatments and has aroused extensive interest in recent years. In this review, recent advancements in antibacterial micro/nanomotors are briefly summarized, focusing on their synthetic methods, propulsion mechanism, and versatile antibacterial applications. Finally, some personal insights into the current challenges and possible future directions to translate proof-of-concept research to clinic application are proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenxia Wang
- School of Biomedical and Phamaceutical Sciences, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, China.
| | - Hangyu Luo
- School of Biomedical and Phamaceutical Sciences, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, China.
| | - Han Wang
- School of Biomedical and Phamaceutical Sciences, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, China.
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18
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Wei W, Wang Z, Wang B, He X, Wang Y, Bai Y, Yang Q, Pang W, Duan X. Acoustofluidic manipulation for submicron to nanoparticles. Electrophoresis 2024. [PMID: 38794970 DOI: 10.1002/elps.202400062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2024] [Revised: 04/25/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/27/2024]
Abstract
Particles, ranging from submicron to nanometer scale, can be broadly categorized into biological and non-biological types. Submicron-to-nanoscale bioparticles include various bacteria, viruses, liposomes, and exosomes. Non-biological particles cover various inorganic, metallic, and carbon-based particles. The effective manipulation of these submicron to nanoparticles, including their separation, sorting, enrichment, assembly, trapping, and transport, is a fundamental requirement for different applications. Acoustofluidics, owing to their distinct advantages, have emerged as a potent tool for nanoparticle manipulation over the past decade. Although recent literature reviews have encapsulated the evolution of acoustofluidic technology, there is a paucity of reports specifically addressing the acoustical manipulation of submicron to nanoparticles. This article endeavors to provide a comprehensive study of this topic, delving into the principles, apparatus, and merits of acoustofluidic manipulation of submicron to nanoparticles, and discussing the state-of-the-art developments in this technology. The discourse commences with an introduction to the fundamental theory of acoustofluidic control and the forces involved in nanoparticle manipulation. Subsequently, the working mechanism of acoustofluidic manipulation of submicron to nanoparticles is dissected into two parts, dominated by the acoustic wave field and the acoustic streaming field. A critical analysis of the advantages and limitations of different acoustofluidic platforms in nanoparticles control is presented. The article concludes with a summary of the challenges acoustofluidics face in the realm of nanoparticle manipulation and analysis, and a forecast of future development prospects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Wei
- State Key Laboratory of Precision Measuring Technology & Instruments, Tianjin University, Tianjin, P. R. China
| | - Zhaoxun Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Precision Measuring Technology & Instruments, Tianjin University, Tianjin, P. R. China
| | - Bingnan Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Precision Measuring Technology & Instruments, Tianjin University, Tianjin, P. R. China
| | - Xinyuan He
- State Key Laboratory of Precision Measuring Technology & Instruments, Tianjin University, Tianjin, P. R. China
| | - Yaping Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Precision Measuring Technology & Instruments, Tianjin University, Tianjin, P. R. China
| | - Yang Bai
- State Key Laboratory of Precision Measuring Technology & Instruments, Tianjin University, Tianjin, P. R. China
| | - Qingrui Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Precision Measuring Technology & Instruments, Tianjin University, Tianjin, P. R. China
| | - Wei Pang
- State Key Laboratory of Precision Measuring Technology & Instruments, Tianjin University, Tianjin, P. R. China
| | - Xuexin Duan
- State Key Laboratory of Precision Measuring Technology & Instruments, Tianjin University, Tianjin, P. R. China
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19
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Song W, Li L, Liu X, Zhu Y, Yu S, Wang H, Wang L. Hydrogel microrobots for biomedical applications. Front Chem 2024; 12:1416314. [PMID: 38841335 PMCID: PMC11150770 DOI: 10.3389/fchem.2024.1416314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2024] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Recent years have witnessed a surge in the application of microrobots within the medical sector, with hydrogel microrobots standing out due to their distinctive advantages. These microrobots, characterized by their exceptional biocompatibility, adjustable physico-mechanical attributes, and acute sensitivity to biological environments, have emerged as pivotal tools in advancing medical applications such as targeted drug delivery, wound healing enhancement, bio-imaging, and precise surgical interventions. The capability of hydrogel microrobots to navigate and perform tasks within complex biological systems significantly enhances the precision, efficiency, and safety of therapeutic procedures. Firstly, this paper delves into the material classification and properties of hydrogel microrobots and compares the advantages of different hydrogel materials. Furthermore, it offers a comprehensive review of the principal categories and recent innovations in the synthesis, actuation mechanisms, and biomedical application of hydrogel-based microrobots. Finally, the manuscript identifies prevailing obstacles and future directions in hydrogel microrobot research, aiming to furnish insights that could propel advancements in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenping Song
- State Key Laboratory of Robotics and System, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, China
- Chongqing Research Institute of HIT, Chongqing, China
| | - Leike Li
- State Key Laboratory of Robotics and System, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, China
| | - Xuejia Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Robotics and System, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, China
- Department of Medical Imaging, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Yanhe Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Robotics and System, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, China
| | - Shimin Yu
- College of Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, China
| | - Haocheng Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Robotics and System, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, China
| | - Lin Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Robotics and System, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, China
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20
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Wang L, Sheng M, Chen L, Yang F, Li C, Li H, Nie P, Lv X, Guo Z, Cao J, Wang X, Li L, Hu AL, Guan D, Du J, Cui H, Zheng X. Sub-Nanogram Resolution Measurement of Inertial Mass and Density Using Magnetic-Field-Guided Bubble Microthruster. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024:e2403867. [PMID: 38773950 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202403867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2024] [Revised: 05/12/2024] [Indexed: 05/24/2024]
Abstract
Artificial micro/nanomotors using active particles hold vast potential in applications such as drug delivery and microfabrication. However, upgrading them to micro/nanorobots capable of performing precise tasks with sophisticated functions remains challenging. Bubble microthruster (BMT) is introduced, a variation of the bubble-driven microrobot, which focuses the energy from a collapsing microbubble to create an inertial impact on nearby target microparticles. Utilizing ultra-high-speed imaging, the microparticle mass and density is determined with sub-nanogram resolution based on the relaxation time characterizing the microparticle's transient response. Master curves of the BMT method are shown to be dependent on the viscosity of the solution. The BMT, controlled by a gamepad with magnetic-field guidance, precisely manipulates target microparticles, including bioparticles. Validation involves measuring the polystyrene microparticle mass and hollow glass microsphere density, and assessing the mouse embryo mass densities. The BMT technique presents a promising chip-free, real-time, highly maneuverable strategy that integrates bubble microrobot-based manipulation with precise bioparticle mass and density detection, which can facilitate microscale bioparticle characterizations such as embryo growth monitoring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leilei Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Nonlinear Mechanics, Beijing Key Laboratory of Engineered Construction and Mechanobiology, Institute of Mechanics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100190, China
| | - Minjia Sheng
- School of Building Services Science and Engineering, Xi'an University of Architecture and Technology, Xi'an, 710055, China
| | - Li Chen
- School of Building Services Science and Engineering, Xi'an University of Architecture and Technology, Xi'an, 710055, China
| | - Fengchang Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Nonlinear Mechanics, Beijing Key Laboratory of Engineered Construction and Mechanobiology, Institute of Mechanics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100190, China
| | - Chenlu Li
- School of Building Services Science and Engineering, Xi'an University of Architecture and Technology, Xi'an, 710055, China
| | - Hangyu Li
- State Key Laboratory of Nonlinear Mechanics, Beijing Key Laboratory of Engineered Construction and Mechanobiology, Institute of Mechanics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100190, China
- School of Engineering Science, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Pengcheng Nie
- State Key Laboratory of Nonlinear Mechanics, Beijing Key Laboratory of Engineered Construction and Mechanobiology, Institute of Mechanics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100190, China
- School of Engineering Science, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Xinxin Lv
- Key Laboratory for Biomechanics and Mechanobiology of Ministry of Education, Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Biomedical Engineering, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Beihang University, Beijing, 100083, China
| | - Zheng Guo
- Key Laboratory for Biomechanics and Mechanobiology of Ministry of Education, Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Biomedical Engineering, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Beihang University, Beijing, 100083, China
| | - Jialing Cao
- Key Laboratory for Biomechanics and Mechanobiology of Ministry of Education, Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Biomedical Engineering, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Beihang University, Beijing, 100083, China
| | - Xiaohuan Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Nonlinear Mechanics, Beijing Key Laboratory of Engineered Construction and Mechanobiology, Institute of Mechanics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100190, China
| | - Long Li
- State Key Laboratory of Nonlinear Mechanics, Beijing Key Laboratory of Engineered Construction and Mechanobiology, Institute of Mechanics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100190, China
| | - Anthony L Hu
- The High School Affiliated to Renmin University of China, Beijing, 100080, China
| | - Dongshi Guan
- State Key Laboratory of Nonlinear Mechanics, Beijing Key Laboratory of Engineered Construction and Mechanobiology, Institute of Mechanics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100190, China
- School of Engineering Science, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Jing Du
- Key Laboratory for Biomechanics and Mechanobiology of Ministry of Education, Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Biomedical Engineering, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Beihang University, Beijing, 100083, China
| | - Haihang Cui
- School of Building Services Science and Engineering, Xi'an University of Architecture and Technology, Xi'an, 710055, China
| | - Xu Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Nonlinear Mechanics, Beijing Key Laboratory of Engineered Construction and Mechanobiology, Institute of Mechanics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100190, China
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21
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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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22
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Xiong K, Xu L. The Model Study of Phase-Transitional Magnetic-Driven Micromotors for Sealing Gastric Perforation via Mg-Based Micropower Traction. NANOMATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2024; 14:865. [PMID: 38786822 PMCID: PMC11123717 DOI: 10.3390/nano14100865] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2024] [Revised: 05/13/2024] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
Gastric perforation refers to the complete rupture of the gastric wall, leading to the extravasation of gastric contents into the thoracic cavity or peritoneum. Without timely intervention, the expulsion of gastric contents may culminate in profound discomfort, exacerbating the inflammatory process and potentially triggering perilous sepsis. In clinical practice, surgical suturing or endoscopic closure procedures are commonly employed. Magnetic-driven microswarms have also been employed for sealing gastrointestinal perforation. However, surgical intervention entails significant risk of bleeding, while endoscopic closure poses risks of inadequate closure and the need for subsequent removal of closure clips. Moreover, the efficacy of microswarms is limited as they merely adhere to the perforated area, and their sealing effect diminishes upon removal of the magnetic field. Herein, we present a Fe&Mg@Lard-Paraffin micromotor (LPM) constructed from a mixture of lard and paraffin coated with magnesium (Mg) microspheres and iron (Fe) nanospheres for sutureless sealing gastric perforations. Under the control of a rotating magnetic field, this micromotor demonstrates precise control over its movement on gastric mucosal folds and accurately targets the gastric perforation area. The phase transition induced by the high-frequency magnetothermal effect causes the micromotor composed of a mixed oil phase of lard and paraffin to change from a solid to a liquid phase. The coated Mg microspheres are subsequently exposed to the acidic gastric acid environment to produce a magnesium protonation reaction, which in turn generates hydrogen (H2) bubble recoil. Through a Mg-based micropower traction, part of the oil phase could be pushed into the gastric perforation, and it would then solidify to seal the gastric perforation area. Experimental results show that this can achieve long-term (>2 h) gastric perforation sealing. This innovative approach holds potential for improving outcomes in gastric perforation management.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Leilei Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Advanced Technology for Materials Synthesis and Processing, Wuhan University of Technology, Wuhan 430070, China;
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23
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Nagaoka Y, Schneider J, Jin N, Cai T, Liu Y, Wang Z, Li R, Kim KS, Chen O. Dynamic Transformation of High-Architectural Nanocrystal Superlattices upon Solvent Molecule Exposure. J Am Chem Soc 2024; 146:13093-13104. [PMID: 38690763 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.3c14603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/03/2024]
Abstract
The cluster-based body-centered-cubic superlattice (cBCC SL) represents one of the most complicated structures among reported nanocrystal assemblies, comprised of 72 truncated tetrahedral quantum dots per unit cell. Our previous report revealed that truncated tetrahedral quantum dots within cBCC SLs possessed highly controlled translational and orientational order owing to an unusual energetic landscape based on the balancing of entropic and enthalpic contributions during the assembly process. However, the cBCC SL's structural transformability and mechanical properties, uniquely originating from such complicated nanostructures, have yet to be investigated. Herein, we report that cBCC SLs can undergo dynamic transformation to face-centered-cubic SLs in response to post-assembly molecular exposure. We monitored the dynamic transformation process using in situ synchrotron-based small-angle X-ray scattering, revealing a dynamic transformation involving multiple steps underpinned by interactions between incoming molecules and TTQDs' surface ligands. Furthermore, our mechanistic study demonstrated that the precise configuration of TTQDs' ligand molecules in cBCC SLs was key to their high structural transformability and unique jelly-like soft mechanical properties. While ligand molecular configurations in nanocrystal SLs are often considered minor features, our findings emphasize their significance in controlling weak van der Waals interactions between nanocrystals within assembled SLs, leading to previously unremarked superstructural transformability and unique mechanical properties. Our findings promote a facile route toward further creation of soft materials, nanorobotics, and out-of-equilibrium assemblies based on nanocrystal building blocks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasutaka Nagaoka
- Department of Chemistry, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island 02912, United States
| | - Jeremy Schneider
- Department of Chemistry, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island 02912, United States
| | - Na Jin
- Department of Chemistry, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island 02912, United States
| | - Tong Cai
- Department of Chemistry, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island 02912, United States
| | - Yuzi Liu
- Center for Nanoscale Materials, Argonne National Laboratory, Argonne, Illinois 60439, United States
| | - Zhongwu Wang
- Cornell High Energy Synchrotron Source, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York 14853, United States
| | - Ruipeng Li
- National Synchrotron Light Source II, Brookhaven National Laboratory, Upton, New York 11973, United States
| | - Kyung-Suk Kim
- School of Engineering, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island 02912, United States
| | - Ou Chen
- Department of Chemistry, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island 02912, United States
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24
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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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25
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Wijesinghe P. Light-deformable microrobots shape up for the biological obstacle course. LIGHT, SCIENCE & APPLICATIONS 2024; 13:103. [PMID: 38710694 DOI: 10.1038/s41377-024-01448-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/08/2024]
Abstract
Euglena gracilis microalga has been transformed into a soft bio-microrobot with light-controlled motion and deformation that can address diverse bio-challenges, such as drug delivery, diseased cell removal, and photodynamic therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip Wijesinghe
- Centre of Biophotonics, SUPA, School of Physics and Astronomy, University of St Andrews, North Haugh, St Andrews, Fife, KY16 9SS, UK.
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26
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Wang J, Zhou Q, Dong Q, Shen J, Hao J, Li D, Xu T, Cai X, Bai W, Ying T, Li Y, Zhang L, Zhu Y, Wang L, Wu J, Zheng Y. Nanoarchitectonic Engineering of Thermal-Responsive Magnetic Nanorobot Collectives for Intracranial Aneurysm Therapy. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2024:e2400408. [PMID: 38709208 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202400408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2024] [Revised: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024]
Abstract
Stent-assisted coiling is a main treatment modality for intracranial aneurysms (IAs) in clinics, but critical challenges remain to be overcome, such as exogenous implant-induced stenosis and reliance on antiplatelet agents. Herein, an endovascular approach is reported for IA therapy without stent grafting or microcatheter shaping, enabled by active delivery of thrombin (Th) to target aneurysms using innovative phase-change material (PCM)-coated magnetite-thrombin (Fe3O4-Th@PCM) FTP nanorobots. The nanorobots are controlled by an integrated actuation system of dynamic torque-force hybrid magnetic fields. With robust intravascular navigation guided by real-time ultrasound imaging, nanorobotic collectives can effectively accumulate and retain in model aneurysms constructed in vivo, followed by controlled release of the encapsulated Th for rapid occlusion of the aneurysm upon melting the protective PCM (thermally responsive in a tunable manner) through focused magnetic hyperthermia. Complete and stable aneurysm embolization is confirmed by postoperative examination and 2-week postembolization follow-up using digital subtraction angiography (DSA), contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS), and histological analysis. The safety of the embolization therapy is assessed through biocompatibility evaluation and histopathology assays. This strategy, seamlessly integrating secure drug packaging, agile magnetic actuation, and clinical interventional imaging, avoids possible exogenous implant rejection, circumvents cumbersome microcatheter shaping, and offers a promising option for IA therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jienan Wang
- Department of Ultrasound in Medicine, Shanghai Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine, Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200233, P. R. China
- Department of Radiology, Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200233, P. R. China
| | - Qi Zhou
- School of Engineering, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, EH9 3FB, UK
| | - Qi Dong
- Department of Ultrasound in Medicine, Shanghai Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine, Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200233, P. R. China
- Department of Ultrasound, Ren Ji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200002, P. R. China
| | - Jian Shen
- Department of Ultrasound in Medicine, Shanghai Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine, Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200233, P. R. China
| | - Junnian Hao
- Department of Ultrasound in Medicine, Shanghai Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine, Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200233, P. R. China
| | - Dong Li
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Robotics and Intelligent System, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, 518055, P. R. China
| | - Tiantian Xu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Robotics and Intelligent System, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, 518055, P. R. China
| | - Xiaojun Cai
- Department of Ultrasound in Medicine, Shanghai Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine, Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200233, P. R. China
| | - Wenkun Bai
- Department of Ultrasound in Medicine, Shanghai Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine, Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200233, P. R. China
| | - Tao Ying
- Department of Ultrasound in Medicine, Shanghai Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine, Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200233, P. R. China
| | - Yuehua Li
- Department of Radiology, Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200233, P. R. China
| | - Li Zhang
- Department of Mechanical and Automation Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, P. R. China
| | - Yueqi Zhu
- Department of Radiology, Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200233, P. R. China
| | - Longchen Wang
- Department of Ultrasound in Medicine, Shanghai Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine, Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200233, P. R. China
| | - Jianrong Wu
- Department of Ultrasound in Medicine, Shanghai Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine, Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200233, P. R. China
| | - Yuanyi Zheng
- Department of Ultrasound in Medicine, Shanghai Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine, Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200233, P. R. China
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27
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Ding B, Zhu Z, Guo C, Li J, Gan Y, Yu M. Oral peptide therapeutics for diabetes treatment: State-of-the-art and future perspectives. Acta Pharm Sin B 2024; 14:2006-2025. [PMID: 38799624 PMCID: PMC11120284 DOI: 10.1016/j.apsb.2024.02.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2023] [Revised: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 12/26/2023] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Diabetes, characterized by hyperglycemia, is a major cause of death and disability worldwide. Peptides, such as insulin and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) analogs, have shown promise as treatments for diabetes due to their ability to mimic or enhance insulin's actions in the body. Compared to subcutaneous injection, oral administration of anti-diabetic peptides is a preferred approach. However, biological barriers significantly reduce the efficacy of oral peptide therapeutics. Recent advancements in drug delivery systems and formulation techniques have greatly improved the oral delivery of peptide therapeutics and their efficacy in treating diabetes. This review will highlight (1) the benefits of oral anti-diabetic peptide therapeutics; (2) the biological barriers for oral peptide delivery, including pH and enzyme degradation, intestinal mucosa barrier, and biodistribution barrier; (3) the delivery platforms to overcome these biological barriers. Additionally, the review will discuss the prospects in this field. The information provided in this review will serve as a valuable guide for future developments in oral anti-diabetic peptide therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bingwen Ding
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research and Center of Pharmaceutics, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Zhu Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research and Center of Pharmaceutics, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
- School of Pharmacy, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China
| | - Cong Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research and Center of Pharmaceutics, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Jiaxin Li
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research and Center of Pharmaceutics, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Yong Gan
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research and Center of Pharmaceutics, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Quality Research and Evaluation of Pharmaceutical Excipients, National Institutes for Food and Drug Control, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Miaorong Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research and Center of Pharmaceutics, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
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28
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Zhu Z, Huang C, Liu L, Wang J, Gou X. Magnetically actuated pandanus fruit-like nanorobots for enhanced pH-stimulated drug release and targeted biofilm elimination in wound healing. J Colloid Interface Sci 2024; 661:374-388. [PMID: 38306747 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcis.2024.01.197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2023] [Revised: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 01/27/2024] [Indexed: 02/04/2024]
Abstract
Conventional antibiotic treatment struggles to eliminate biofilms in wounds due to the formation compact barrier. Herein, we fabricate magnetic pandanus fruit-like nanorobots (NRs) that function as drug carriers while exhibit excellent maneuverability for enhanced antibacterial tasks. Specifically, zeolitic imidazolate framework-8 (ZIF-8) is self-assembled on the surface of Fe3O4 nanoparticles, loaded with a small quantity of ciprofloxacin, and covered with a layer of polydopamine (PDA). Energized by external magnetic fields, the NRs (F@Z/C/P) are steered in defined direction to penetrate the infection tissues, and effectively arrive targeted areas for pH stimulated drug release and near-infrared triggered phototherapy, contributing to an antibacterial rate of >99.9 %. The Zn2+ in ZIF-8 and the catechol group in PDA form catechol-ZIF-8-drug structures, which effectively reduce drug release by 11 % in high pH environments and promote rapid drug release by 14 % in low pH environments compared to NRs without PDA. Additionally, F@Z/C/P can remove the biofilms and bacteria in Staphylococcus aureus infected wounds, and eventually be discharged from the infected site after treatment, leading to faster healing with an intact epidermis and minimal harm to surrounding tissues and organs. The study provides a promising strategy for tackling biofilm-associated infections in vivo through the use of multi-functional NRs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zixin Zhu
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, College of Medicine, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610031, PR China; Key Laboratory of Advanced Technologies of Materials (Ministry of Education), School of Materials Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610031, PR China
| | - Chenjun Huang
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, College of Medicine, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610031, PR China
| | - Laiyi Liu
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, College of Medicine, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610031, PR China
| | - Jiayi Wang
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, College of Medicine, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610031, PR China
| | - Xue Gou
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, College of Medicine, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610031, PR China; Key Laboratory of Advanced Technologies of Materials (Ministry of Education), School of Materials Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610031, PR China.
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29
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Feng K, Shen W, Chen L, Gong J, Palberg T, Qu J, Niu R. Weak Ion-Exchange Based Magnetic Swarm for Targeted Drug Delivery and Chemotherapy. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2024; 20:e2306798. [PMID: 38059804 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202306798] [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: 08/08/2023] [Revised: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023]
Abstract
Swimming microrobots that are actuated by multiple stimuli/fields display various intriguing collective behaviors, ranging from phase separation to clustering and giant number fluctuation; however, it is still chanllenging to achieve multiple responses and functionalities within one colloidal system to emulate high environmental adaptability and improved tasking capability of natural swarms. In this work, a weak ion-exchange based swarm is presented that can self-organize and reconfigure by chemical, light, and magnetic fields, showing living crystal, amorphous glass, liquid, chain, and wheel-like structures. By changing the frequency and strength of the rotating magnetic field, various well-controlled and fast transformations are obtained. Experiments show the high adaptability and functionality of the microrobot swarm in delivering drugs in confined spaces, such as narrow channels with turns or obstacles. The drug-carrying swarm exhibits excellent chemtherapy for Hela and CT26 cells due to the pH-enhanced drug release and locomotion. This reconfigurable microswarm provides a new platform for biomedical and environmental applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Feng
- Key Laboratory of Material Chemistry for Energy Conversion and Storage, Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Material Chemistry and Service Failure, Hubei Engineering Research Center for Biomaterials and Medical Protective Materials, Semiconductor Chemistry Center, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430074, China
| | - Wenqi Shen
- Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, 221002, China
| | - Ling Chen
- Key Laboratory of Material Chemistry for Energy Conversion and Storage, Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Material Chemistry and Service Failure, Hubei Engineering Research Center for Biomaterials and Medical Protective Materials, Semiconductor Chemistry Center, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430074, China
| | - Jiang Gong
- Key Laboratory of Material Chemistry for Energy Conversion and Storage, Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Material Chemistry and Service Failure, Hubei Engineering Research Center for Biomaterials and Medical Protective Materials, Semiconductor Chemistry Center, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430074, China
| | - Thomas Palberg
- Institut für physics, Johannes Gutenberg-Universtät Mainz, Staudingerweg 7, 55128, Mainz, Germany
| | - Jinping Qu
- Key Laboratory of Material Chemistry for Energy Conversion and Storage, Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Material Chemistry and Service Failure, Hubei Engineering Research Center for Biomaterials and Medical Protective Materials, Semiconductor Chemistry Center, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430074, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Technique and Equipment for Macromolecular Advanced Manufacturing, School of Mechanical and Automotive Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510641, China
| | - Ran Niu
- Key Laboratory of Material Chemistry for Energy Conversion and Storage, Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Material Chemistry and Service Failure, Hubei Engineering Research Center for Biomaterials and Medical Protective Materials, Semiconductor Chemistry Center, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430074, China
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30
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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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Zhang T, Liu X, Qin H, Lin Y, Li B, Jiang X, Zheng X. Semiphysical Design Concept for Developing Miniaturized Microrobots In Vivo. NANO LETTERS 2024. [PMID: 38602330 DOI: 10.1021/acs.nanolett.4c00025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/12/2024]
Abstract
The miniaturization of biomedical microrobots is crucial for their in vivo applications. However, it is challenging to reduce their size while maintaining their biomedical functions. To resolve this contradiction, we propose a semiphysical design concept for developing miniaturized microrobots, in which invisible components such as light beams are utilized to replace most of the physical parts of a microrobot, thus minimizing its physical size without sacrificing its biomedical functions. According to this design, we have constructed a semiphysical microrobot (SPM) composed of main light beam, light-responsive microparticle, and auxiliary light beam, serving as the actuation system, recognition part, and surgical claws, respectively. Based on the functions of actuation, biosensing, and microsurgery, a SPM has been applied for a series of applications, including thrombus elimination at the branch vessel, stratified removal of multilayer thrombus, and biosensing-guided microsurgery. The proposed semiphysical design concept should bring new insight into the development of miniaturized biomedical microrobots.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiange Zhang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Nanophotonic Manipulation, Institute of Nanophotonics, Jinan University, Guangzhou 511443, China
| | - Xiaoshuai Liu
- School of Physics and Materials Science, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Haifeng Qin
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Nanophotonic Manipulation, Institute of Nanophotonics, Jinan University, Guangzhou 511443, China
| | - Yufeng Lin
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Nanophotonic Manipulation, Institute of Nanophotonics, Jinan University, Guangzhou 511443, China
| | - Baojun Li
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Nanophotonic Manipulation, Institute of Nanophotonics, Jinan University, Guangzhou 511443, China
| | - Xiqun Jiang
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Xianchuang Zheng
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Nanophotonic Manipulation, Institute of Nanophotonics, Jinan University, Guangzhou 511443, China
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32
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Li Y, Liu J, Wu Y, He Q. Rotary F oF 1-ATP Synthase-Driven Flasklike Pentosan Colloidal Motors with ATP Synthesis and Storage. J Am Chem Soc 2024. [PMID: 38598314 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.4c00334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/12/2024]
Abstract
We report the hierarchical assembly of a chloroplast-derived rotary FoF1-ATPase motor-propelled flasklike pentosan colloidal motor (FPCM) with the ability of the synthesis, storage, and triggered release of biological energy currency ATP. These streamlined and submicrometer-sized hollow flasklike pentosan colloidal motors are prepared by combining a soft-template-based hydrothermal polymerization with a vacuum infusion of chloroplast-derived proteoliposomes containing rotary FoF1-ATPase motors. The generation of proton motive force across the proteoliposomes by injecting an acidic buffer solution promotes the rotation of FoF1-ATPase motors to drive the self-propelled motion of FPCMs, accompanying the inner ATP synthesis and storage. These rotary FoF1-ATPase motor-powered FPCMs exhibit a chemotactic behavior by migrating from their neck opening to their round bottom along a proton gradient of the external environment (negative chemotaxis). Such rotary biomolecular motor-driven flasklike pentosan colloidal motors with ATP synthesis and on-demand release make them promising candidates for engineering novel intelligent nanocarriers to actively regulate cellular metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Li
- School of Medicine and Health, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150001, China
| | - Jun Liu
- School of Medicine and Health, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150001, China
- Wenzhou Institute, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, 1 Jinlian Street, Wenzhou 325000, China
| | - Yingjie Wu
- School of Medicine and Health, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150001, China
| | - Qiang He
- School of Medicine and Health, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150001, China
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33
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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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Xiong Q, Zhou X, Li D, Ambrose JW, Yeow RC. An Amphibious Fully-Soft Centimeter-Scale Miniature Crawling Robot Powered by Electrohydraulic Fluid Kinetic Energy. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 11:e2308033. [PMID: 38303577 PMCID: PMC11005735 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202308033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2023] [Revised: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 02/03/2024]
Abstract
Miniature locomotion robots with the ability to navigate confined environments show great promise for a wide range of tasks, including search and rescue operations. Soft miniature locomotion robots, as a burgeoning field, have attracted significant research interest due to their exceptional terrain adaptability and safety features. Here, a fully-soft centimeter-scale miniature crawling robot directly powered by fluid kinetic energy generated by an electrohydraulic actuator is introduced. Through optimization of the operating voltage and design parameters, the average crawling velocity of the robot is dramatically enhanced, reaching 16 mm s-1. The optimized robot weighs 6.3 g and measures 5 cm in length, 5 cm in width, and 6 mm in height. By combining two robots in parallel, the robot can achieve a turning rate of ≈3° s-1. Additionally, by reconfiguring the distribution of electrodes in the electrohydraulic actuator, the robot can achieve 2 degrees-of-freedom translational motion, improving its maneuverability in narrow spaces. Finally, the use of a soft water-proof skin is demonstrated for underwater locomotion and actuation. In comparison with other soft miniature crawling robots, this robot with full softness can achieve relatively high crawling velocity as well as increased robustness and recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Quan Xiong
- Department of Biomedical EngineeringNational University of Singapore15 Kent Ridge CresSingapore119276Singapore
| | - Xuanyi Zhou
- Department of Biomedical EngineeringNational University of Singapore15 Kent Ridge CresSingapore119276Singapore
| | - Dannuo Li
- Department of Biomedical EngineeringNational University of Singapore15 Kent Ridge CresSingapore119276Singapore
| | - Jonathan William Ambrose
- Department of Biomedical EngineeringNational University of Singapore15 Kent Ridge CresSingapore119276Singapore
| | - Raye Chen‐Hua Yeow
- Department of Biomedical EngineeringNational University of Singapore15 Kent Ridge CresSingapore119276Singapore
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35
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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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36
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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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37
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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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38
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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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39
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Wang D, Xin C, Yang L, Wang L, Liu B, Wu H, Wang C, Pan D, Ren Z, Hu Y, Li J, Chu J, Wu D. Femtosecond Laser Fabrication of Three-Dimensional Bubble-Propelled Microrotors for Multicomponent Mechanical Transmission. NANO LETTERS 2024; 24:3176-3185. [PMID: 38436575 DOI: 10.1021/acs.nanolett.4c00037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/05/2024]
Abstract
Inspired by the reverse thrust generated by fuel injection, micromachines that are self-propelled by bubble ejection are developed, such as microrods, microtubes, and microspheres. However, controlling bubble ejection sites to build micromachines with programmable actuation and further enabling mechanical transmission remain challenging. Here, bubble-propelled mechanical microsystems are constructed by proposing a multimaterial femtosecond laser processing method, consisting of direct laser writing and selective laser metal reduction. The polymer frame of the microsystems is first printed, followed by the deposition of catalytic platinum into the desired local site of the microsystems by laser reduction. With this method, a variety of designable microrotors with selective bubble ejection sites are realized, which enable excellent mechanical transmission systems composed of single and multiple mechanical components, including a coupler, a crank slider, and a crank rocker system. We believe the presented bubble-propelled mechanical microsystems could be extended to applications in microrobotics, microfluidics, and microsensors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dawei Wang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Mechanical Behavior and Design of Materials, Department of Precision Machinery and Precision Instrumentation, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230026, China
| | - Chen Xin
- CAS Key Laboratory of Mechanical Behavior and Design of Materials, Department of Precision Machinery and Precision Instrumentation, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230026, China
- Department of Mechanical and Automation Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong 999077, China
| | - Liang Yang
- Suzhou Institute for Advanced Research, University of Science and Technology of China, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Liu Wang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Mechanical Behavior and Design of Materials, Department of Modern Mechanics, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230026, China
| | - Bingrui Liu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Mechanical Behavior and Design of Materials, Department of Precision Machinery and Precision Instrumentation, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230026, China
| | - Hao Wu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Mechanical Behavior and Design of Materials, Department of Precision Machinery and Precision Instrumentation, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230026, China
| | - Chaowei Wang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Mechanical Behavior and Design of Materials, Department of Precision Machinery and Precision Instrumentation, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230026, China
| | - Deng Pan
- Information Materials and Intelligent Sensing Laboratory of Anhui Province, Anhui University, 111 Jiu Long Road, Hefei 230601, China
| | - Zhongguo Ren
- CAS Key Laboratory of Mechanical Behavior and Design of Materials, Department of Precision Machinery and Precision Instrumentation, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230026, China
| | - Yanlei Hu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Mechanical Behavior and Design of Materials, Department of Precision Machinery and Precision Instrumentation, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230026, China
| | - Jiawen Li
- CAS Key Laboratory of Mechanical Behavior and Design of Materials, Department of Precision Machinery and Precision Instrumentation, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230026, China
| | - Jiaru Chu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Mechanical Behavior and Design of Materials, Department of Precision Machinery and Precision Instrumentation, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230026, China
| | - Dong Wu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Mechanical Behavior and Design of Materials, Department of Precision Machinery and Precision Instrumentation, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230026, China
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40
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Feng X, Wang L, Xue Z, Xie C, Han J, Pei Y, Zhang Z, Guo W, Lu B. Melt electrowriting enabled 3D liquid crystal elastomer structures for cross-scale actuators and temperature field sensors. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2024; 10:eadk3854. [PMID: 38446880 PMCID: PMC10917348 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adk3854] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024]
Abstract
Liquid crystal elastomers (LCEs) have garnered attention for their remarkable reversible strains under various stimuli. Early studies on LCEs mainly focused on basic dimensional changes in macrostructures or quasi-three-dimensional (3D) microstructures. However, fabricating complex 3D microstructures and cross-scale LCE-based structures has remained challenging. In this study, we report a compatible method named melt electrowriting (MEW) to fabricate LCE-based microfiber actuators and various 3D actuators on the micrometer to centimeter scales. By controlling printing parameters, these actuators were fabricated with high resolutions (4.5 to 60 μm), actuation strains (10 to 55%), and a maximum work density of 160 J/kg. In addition, through the integration of a deep learning-based model, we demonstrated the application of LCE materials in temperature field sensing. Large-scale, real-time, LCE grid-based spatial temperature field sensors have been designed, exhibiting a low response time of less than 42 ms and a high precision of 94.79%.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xueming Feng
- The State Key Laboratory for Manufacturing Systems Engineering, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710049, China
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710054, China
| | - Li Wang
- The State Key Laboratory for Manufacturing Systems Engineering, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710049, China
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710054, China
- National Innovation Institute of Additive Manufacturing, No. 997, Shanglinyuan 8th Road, Gaoxin District, Xi’an 710300, China
| | - Zhengjie Xue
- The State Key Laboratory for Manufacturing Systems Engineering, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710049, China
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710054, China
| | - Chao Xie
- The State Key Laboratory for Manufacturing Systems Engineering, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710049, China
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710054, China
| | - Jie Han
- The State Key Laboratory for Manufacturing Systems Engineering, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710049, China
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710054, China
- Physical Intelligence Department, Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems, 70569 Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Yuechen Pei
- The State Key Laboratory for Manufacturing Systems Engineering, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710049, China
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710054, China
| | - Zhaofa Zhang
- The State Key Laboratory for Manufacturing Systems Engineering, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710049, China
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710054, China
| | - Wenhua Guo
- The State Key Laboratory for Manufacturing Systems Engineering, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710049, China
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710054, China
- National Innovation Institute of Additive Manufacturing, No. 997, Shanglinyuan 8th Road, Gaoxin District, Xi’an 710300, China
| | - Bingheng Lu
- The State Key Laboratory for Manufacturing Systems Engineering, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710049, China
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710054, China
- National Innovation Institute of Additive Manufacturing, No. 997, Shanglinyuan 8th Road, Gaoxin District, Xi’an 710300, China
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41
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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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42
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Xiong J, Li X, He Z, Shi Y, Pan T, Zhu G, Lu D, Xin H. Light-controlled soft bio-microrobot. LIGHT, SCIENCE & APPLICATIONS 2024; 13:55. [PMID: 38403642 PMCID: PMC10894875 DOI: 10.1038/s41377-024-01405-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2023] [Revised: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/27/2024]
Abstract
Micro/nanorobots hold exciting prospects for biomedical and even clinical applications due to their small size and high controllability. However, it is still a big challenge to maneuver micro/nanorobots into narrow spaces with high deformability and adaptability to perform complicated biomedical tasks. Here, we report a light-controlled soft bio-microrobots (called "Ebot") based on Euglena gracilis that are capable of performing multiple tasks in narrow microenvironments including intestinal mucosa with high controllability, deformability and adaptability. The motion of the Ebot can be precisely navigated via light-controlled polygonal flagellum beating. Moreover, the Ebot shows highly controlled deformability with different light illumination duration, which allows it to pass through narrow and curved microchannels with high adaptability. With these features, Ebots are able to execute multiple tasks, such as targeted drug delivery, selective removal of diseased cells in intestinal mucosa, as well as photodynamic therapy. This light-controlled Ebot provides a new bio-microrobotic tool, with many new possibilities for biomedical task execution in narrow and complicated spaces where conventional tools are difficult to access due to the lack of deformability and bio-adaptability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianyun Xiong
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Nanophotonic Manipulation, Institute of Nanophotonics, Jinan University, 511443, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xing Li
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Nanophotonic Manipulation, Institute of Nanophotonics, Jinan University, 511443, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ziyi He
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Nanophotonic Manipulation, Institute of Nanophotonics, Jinan University, 511443, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yang Shi
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Nanophotonic Manipulation, Institute of Nanophotonics, Jinan University, 511443, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ting Pan
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Nanophotonic Manipulation, Institute of Nanophotonics, Jinan University, 511443, Guangzhou, China
| | - Guoshuai Zhu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Nanophotonic Manipulation, Institute of Nanophotonics, Jinan University, 511443, Guangzhou, China
| | - Dengyun Lu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Nanophotonic Manipulation, Institute of Nanophotonics, Jinan University, 511443, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hongbao Xin
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Nanophotonic Manipulation, Institute of Nanophotonics, Jinan University, 511443, Guangzhou, China.
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43
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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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44
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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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45
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Li N, Fei P, Tous C, Rezaei Adariani M, Hautot ML, Ouedraogo I, Hadjadj A, Dimov IP, Zhang Q, Lessard S, Nosrati Z, Ng CN, Saatchi K, Häfeli UO, Tremblay C, Kadoury S, Tang A, Martel S, Soulez G. Human-scale navigation of magnetic microrobots in hepatic arteries. Sci Robot 2024; 9:eadh8702. [PMID: 38354257 DOI: 10.1126/scirobotics.adh8702] [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: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
Using external actuation sources to navigate untethered drug-eluting microrobots in the bloodstream offers great promise in improving the selectivity of drug delivery, especially in oncology, but the current field forces are difficult to maintain with enough strength inside the human body (>70-centimeter-diameter range) to achieve this operation. Here, we present an algorithm to predict the optimal patient position with respect to gravity during endovascular microrobot navigation. Magnetic resonance navigation, using magnetic field gradients in clinical magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), is combined with the algorithm to improve the targeting efficiency of magnetic microrobots (MMRs). Using a dedicated microparticle injector, a high-precision MRI-compatible balloon inflation system, and a clinical MRI, MMRs were successfully steered into targeted lobes via the hepatic arteries of living pigs. The distribution ratio of the microrobots (roughly 2000 MMRs per pig) in the right liver lobe increased from 47.7 to 86.4% and increased in the left lobe from 52.2 to 84.1%. After passing through multiple vascular bifurcations, the number of MMRs reaching four different target liver lobes had a 1.7- to 2.6-fold increase in the navigation groups compared with the control group. Performing simulations on 19 patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) demonstrated that the proposed technique can meet the need for hepatic embolization in patients with HCC. Our technology offers selectable direction for actuator-based navigation of microrobots at the human scale.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ning Li
- Clinical Laboratory of Image Processing (LCTI), Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CRCHUM), Montréal, Québec H2X 0A9, Canada
- Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec H3T 1J4, Canada
| | - Phillip Fei
- Clinical Laboratory of Image Processing (LCTI), Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CRCHUM), Montréal, Québec H2X 0A9, Canada
- Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec H3T 1J4, Canada
| | - Cyril Tous
- Clinical Laboratory of Image Processing (LCTI), Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CRCHUM), Montréal, Québec H2X 0A9, Canada
- Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec H3T 1J4, Canada
| | - Mahdi Rezaei Adariani
- Clinical Laboratory of Image Processing (LCTI), Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CRCHUM), Montréal, Québec H2X 0A9, Canada
- Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec H3T 1J4, Canada
- Inria, Palaiseau 91120, France
| | - Marie-Lou Hautot
- Clinical Laboratory of Image Processing (LCTI), Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CRCHUM), Montréal, Québec H2X 0A9, Canada
- Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec H3T 1J4, Canada
| | - Inès Ouedraogo
- Clinical Laboratory of Image Processing (LCTI), Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CRCHUM), Montréal, Québec H2X 0A9, Canada
- Université de Nantes, Nantes 44035, France
| | - Amina Hadjadj
- Clinical Laboratory of Image Processing (LCTI), Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CRCHUM), Montréal, Québec H2X 0A9, Canada
- Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec H3T 1J4, Canada
| | - Ivan P Dimov
- Clinical Laboratory of Image Processing (LCTI), Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CRCHUM), Montréal, Québec H2X 0A9, Canada
- Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec H3T 1J4, Canada
| | - Quan Zhang
- School of Mechatronic Engineering and Automation, Shanghai University, Shanghai 200444, China
- School of Artificial Intelligence, Shanghai University, Shanghai 200444, China
| | - Simon Lessard
- Clinical Laboratory of Image Processing (LCTI), Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CRCHUM), Montréal, Québec H2X 0A9, Canada
- Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec H3T 1J4, Canada
| | - Zeynab Nosrati
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Courtney N Ng
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Katayoun Saatchi
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Urs O Häfeli
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Charles Tremblay
- Department of Computer Engineering and Software Engineering, Polytechnique Montréal, Montréal, Québec H3T 1J4, Canada
| | - Samuel Kadoury
- Clinical Laboratory of Image Processing (LCTI), Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CRCHUM), Montréal, Québec H2X 0A9, Canada
- Department of Computer Engineering and Software Engineering, Polytechnique Montréal, Montréal, Québec H3T 1J4, Canada
| | - An Tang
- Clinical Laboratory of Image Processing (LCTI), Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CRCHUM), Montréal, Québec H2X 0A9, Canada
- Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec H3T 1J4, Canada
- Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CHUM), Montréal, Québec H2X 0C1, Canada
| | - Sylvain Martel
- Department of Computer Engineering and Software Engineering, Polytechnique Montréal, Montréal, Québec H3T 1J4, Canada
- Department of Bioengineering, McGill University, Montréal, Québec H3A 0E9, Canada
| | - Gilles Soulez
- Clinical Laboratory of Image Processing (LCTI), Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CRCHUM), Montréal, Québec H2X 0A9, Canada
- Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec H3T 1J4, Canada
- Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CHUM), Montréal, Québec H2X 0C1, Canada
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46
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Liu J, Yang Z, Yan Z, Duan S, Chen X, Cui D, Cao D, Kuang T, Ma X, Wang W. Chemical Micromotors Move Faster at Oil-Water Interfaces. J Am Chem Soc 2024; 146:4221-4233. [PMID: 38305127 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.3c13743] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2024]
Abstract
Many real-world scenarios involve interfaces, particularly liquid-liquid interfaces, that can fundamentally alter the dynamics of colloids. This is poorly understood for chemically active colloids that release chemicals into their environment. We report here the surprising discovery that chemical micromotors─colloids that convert chemical fuels into self-propulsion─move significantly faster at an oil-water interface than on a glass substrate. Typical speed increases ranged from 3 to 6 times up to an order of magnitude and were observed for different types of chemical motors and interfaces made with different oils. Such speed increases are likely caused by faster chemical reactions at an oil-water interface than at a glass-water interface, but the exact mechanism remains unknown. Our results provide valuable insights into the complex interactions between chemical micromotors and their environments, which are important for applications in the human body or in the removal of organic pollutants from water. In addition, this study also suggests that chemical reactions occur faster at an oil-water interface and that micromotors can serve as a probe for such an effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiayu Liu
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology (Shenzhen), Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Zhou Yang
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology (Shenzhen), Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Zuyao Yan
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology (Shenzhen), Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Shifang Duan
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology (Shenzhen), Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Xiaowen Chen
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology (Shenzhen), Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Donghao Cui
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology (Shenzhen), Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Dezhou Cao
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology (Shenzhen), Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Ting Kuang
- Education Center of Experiments and Innovations, Harbin Institute of Technology (Shenzhen), Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Xing Ma
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology (Shenzhen), Shenzhen 518055, China
- Sauvage Laboratory for Smart Materials, Harbin Institute of Technology (Shenzhen), Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Wei Wang
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology (Shenzhen), Shenzhen 518055, China
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47
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Jeong SY, Seo HB, Seo MH, Cho JW, Kwon S, Son G, Lee SY. Repeatable Acoustic Vaporization of Coated Perfluorocarbon Bubbles for Micro-Actuation Inspired by Polypodium aureum. Biomimetics (Basel) 2024; 9:106. [PMID: 38392152 PMCID: PMC10887373 DOI: 10.3390/biomimetics9020106] [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: 01/07/2024] [Revised: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Polypodium aureum, a fern, possesses a specialized spore-releasing mechanism like a catapult induced by the quick expansion of vaporized bubbles. This study introduces lipid-coated perfluorocarbon droplets to enable repeatable vaporization-condensation cycles, inspired by the repeatable vaporization of Polypodium aureum. Lipid-perfluorocarbon droplets have been considered not to exhibit repeatable oscillations due to bubble collapse of the low surface tension of lipid layers. However, a single lipid-dodecafluoropentane droplet with a diameter of 9.17 µm shows expansion-contraction oscillations over 4000 cycles by changing lipid composition and applying a low-power 1.7 MHz ultrasound to induce the partial vaporization of the droplets. The optimal combinations of shell composition, droplet fabrication, and acoustic conditions can minimize the damage on shell structure and promote a quick recovery of damaged shell layers. The highly expanding oscillatory microbubbles provide a new direction for fuel-free micro- or nanobots, as well as biomedical applications of contrast agents and drug delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Se-Yun Jeong
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Sogang University, Baekbeom-ro 35, Mapo-gu, Seoul 04107, Republic of Korea
| | - Han-Bok Seo
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Sogang University, Baekbeom-ro 35, Mapo-gu, Seoul 04107, Republic of Korea
| | - Myung-Hyun Seo
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Sogang University, Baekbeom-ro 35, Mapo-gu, Seoul 04107, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin-Woo Cho
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Sogang University, Baekbeom-ro 35, Mapo-gu, Seoul 04107, Republic of Korea
| | - Seho Kwon
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Sogang University, Baekbeom-ro 35, Mapo-gu, Seoul 04107, Republic of Korea
| | - Gihun Son
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Sogang University, Baekbeom-ro 35, Mapo-gu, Seoul 04107, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung-Yop Lee
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Sogang University, Baekbeom-ro 35, Mapo-gu, Seoul 04107, Republic of Korea
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48
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Luo Z, Wang R, Deng X, Chen T, Ma X, Zhang Y, Gao C, Wu A. Janus mesoporous organosilica/platinum nanomotors for active treatment of suppurative otitis media. NANOSCALE 2024; 16:3006-3010. [PMID: 38226693 DOI: 10.1039/d3nr05666j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2024]
Abstract
We report a Janus mesoporous organosilica/platinum (MOS/Pt) nanomotor for active targeted treatment of suppurative otitis media, as a new type of multi-functional ear drop. The efficient propulsion of MOS/Pt nanomotors in hydrogen peroxide ear-cleaning drops significantly improves their binding efficiency with Staphylococcus aureus and enhances their antibacterial efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhizhou Luo
- Biomedical Research Institute, Wenzhou Medical University, Zhejiang 315300, China.
| | - Ruonan Wang
- Biomedical Research Institute, Wenzhou Medical University, Zhejiang 315300, China.
| | - Xiaoxia Deng
- Biomedical Research Institute, Wenzhou Medical University, Zhejiang 315300, China.
| | - Tianxiang Chen
- Ningbo Key Laboratory of Biomedical Imaging Probe Materials and Technology, Zhejiang International Cooperation Base of Biomedical Materials Technology and Application, Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) Key Laboratory of Magnetic Materials and Devices, Zhejiang Engineering Research Center for Biomedical Materials at Ningbo Cixi Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Ningbo Institute of Materials Technology and Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Ningbo 315201, China.
- University of Chinese Academy of Science, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Xuehua Ma
- Ningbo Key Laboratory of Biomedical Imaging Probe Materials and Technology, Zhejiang International Cooperation Base of Biomedical Materials Technology and Application, Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) Key Laboratory of Magnetic Materials and Devices, Zhejiang Engineering Research Center for Biomedical Materials at Ningbo Cixi Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Ningbo Institute of Materials Technology and Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Ningbo 315201, China.
- University of Chinese Academy of Science, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Yujie Zhang
- Biomedical Research Institute, Wenzhou Medical University, Zhejiang 315300, China.
- Ningbo Key Laboratory of Biomedical Imaging Probe Materials and Technology, Zhejiang International Cooperation Base of Biomedical Materials Technology and Application, Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) Key Laboratory of Magnetic Materials and Devices, Zhejiang Engineering Research Center for Biomedical Materials at Ningbo Cixi Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Ningbo Institute of Materials Technology and Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Ningbo 315201, China.
- University of Chinese Academy of Science, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Changyong Gao
- Biomedical Research Institute, Wenzhou Medical University, Zhejiang 315300, China.
- Ningbo Key Laboratory of Biomedical Imaging Probe Materials and Technology, Zhejiang International Cooperation Base of Biomedical Materials Technology and Application, Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) Key Laboratory of Magnetic Materials and Devices, Zhejiang Engineering Research Center for Biomedical Materials at Ningbo Cixi Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Ningbo Institute of Materials Technology and Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Ningbo 315201, China.
- University of Chinese Academy of Science, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Aiguo Wu
- Ningbo Key Laboratory of Biomedical Imaging Probe Materials and Technology, Zhejiang International Cooperation Base of Biomedical Materials Technology and Application, Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) Key Laboratory of Magnetic Materials and Devices, Zhejiang Engineering Research Center for Biomedical Materials at Ningbo Cixi Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Ningbo Institute of Materials Technology and Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Ningbo 315201, China.
- University of Chinese Academy of Science, Beijing, 100049, China
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49
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Fraxedas J, Reguera D, Esplandiu MJ. Collective motion of Nafion-based micromotors in water. Faraday Discuss 2024; 249:424-439. [PMID: 37779462 DOI: 10.1039/d3fd00098b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/03/2023]
Abstract
Ion exchange is one of the most interesting processes occurring at the interface between aqueous solutions and polymers, such as the well-known Nafion. If the exchanged ions have different diffusion coefficients, this interchange generates local electric fields which can be harnessed to drive fluid motion. In this work, we show how it is possible to design and fabricate self-propelling microswimmers based on Nafion, driven by ion-exchange, and fueled by innocuous salts. These Nafion micromotors are made using colloidal lithography by micro/nanostructuring Nafion in the form of asymmetric rods. These microswimmers exhibit fascinating collective motion in water driven by the interplay of their self-generated chemical/electric fields and their capability to pump matter nearby towards the collective motile structure. The pumping activity of the microswimmers induces the formation of growing mobile clusters, whose velocity increases with size. Such dynamic structures are able to trap nearby micro/nano-objects while purifying the liquid, which acts both as the transport media and as fuel. Such phenomenology opens the door to potential applications in water remediation that are currently under development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jordi Fraxedas
- Catalan Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (ICN2), CSIC and BIST, Campus UAB, Bellaterra, 08193 Barcelona, Spain.
| | - David Reguera
- Departament de Física de la Matèria Condensada and Institute of Complex Systems (UBICS), Universitat de Barcelona, C/Martí i Franquès 1, 08028, Barcelona, Spain
| | - María José Esplandiu
- Catalan Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (ICN2), CSIC and BIST, Campus UAB, Bellaterra, 08193 Barcelona, Spain.
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50
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Hu X, Kim K, Ali A, Kim H, Kang Y, Yoon J, Torati SR, Reddy V, Im MY, Lim B, Kim C. Magnetically Selective Versatile Transport of Microrobotic Carriers. SMALL METHODS 2024:e2301495. [PMID: 38308323 DOI: 10.1002/smtd.202301495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2023] [Revised: 12/28/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2024]
Abstract
Field-driven transport systems offer great promise for use as biofunctionalized carriers in microrobotics, biomedicine, and cell delivery applications. Despite the construction of artificial microtubules using several micromagnets, which provide a promising transport pathway for the synchronous delivery of microrobotic carriers to the targeted location inside microvascular networks, the selective transport of different microrobotic carriers remains an unexplored challenge. This study demonstrated the selective manipulation and transport of microrobotics along a patterned micromagnet using applied magnetic fields. Owing to varied field strengths, the magnetic beads used as the microrobotic carriers with different sizes revealed varied locomotion, including all of them moving along the same direction, selective rotation, bidirectional locomotion, and all of them moving in a reversed direction. Furthermore, cells immobilized with magnetic beads and nanoparticles also revealed varied locomotion. It is expected that such steering strategies of microrobotic carriers can be used in microvascular channels for the targeted delivery of drugs or cells in an organized manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinghao Hu
- Department of Physics and Chemistry, DGIST, Daegu, 42988, Republic of Korea
- State Key Laboratory of Solidification Processing, Center of Advanced Lubrication and Seal Materials, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, 710072, China
| | - Keonmok Kim
- Department of Physics and Chemistry, DGIST, Daegu, 42988, Republic of Korea
| | - Abbas Ali
- Department of Physics and Chemistry, DGIST, Daegu, 42988, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyeonseol Kim
- Department of Physics and Chemistry, DGIST, Daegu, 42988, Republic of Korea
| | - Yumin Kang
- Department of Physics and Chemistry, DGIST, Daegu, 42988, Republic of Korea
| | - Jonghwan Yoon
- Department of Physics and Chemistry, DGIST, Daegu, 42988, Republic of Korea
| | - Sri Ramulu Torati
- Department of Physics and Chemistry, DGIST, Daegu, 42988, Republic of Korea
| | - Venu Reddy
- Department of Physics and Chemistry, DGIST, Daegu, 42988, Republic of Korea
| | - Mi-Young Im
- Department of Physics and Chemistry, DGIST, Daegu, 42988, Republic of Korea
- Center for X-ray Optics, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA
| | - Byeonghwa Lim
- Department of Smart Sensor Engineering, Andong National University, Andong, 36729, Republic of Korea
| | - CheolGi Kim
- Department of Physics and Chemistry, DGIST, Daegu, 42988, Republic of Korea
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