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Gao C, Zhang W, Gong D, Liang C, Su Y, Peng G, Deng X, Xu W, Cai J. Biotemplated Janus Magnetic Microrobots Based on Diatomite for Highly Efficient Detection of Salmonella. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2024; 16:49030-49040. [PMID: 39226320 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.4c09408] [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: 09/05/2024]
Abstract
Foodborne illnesses caused by Salmonella bacteria pose a significant threat to public health. It is still challenging to detect them effectively. Herein, biotemplated Janus disk-shaped magnetic microrobots (BJDMs) based on diatomite are developed for the highly efficient detection of Salmonella in milk. The BJDMs were loaded with aptamer, which can be magnetically actuated in the swarm to capture Salmonella in a linear range of 5.8 × 102 to 5.8 × 105 CFU/mL in 30 min, with a detection limit as low as 58 CFU/mL. In addition, the silica surface of BJDMs exhibited a large specific surface area to adsorb DNA from captured Salmonella, and the specificity was also confirmed via tests of a mixture of diverse foodborne bacteria. These diatomite-based microrobots hold the advantages of mass production and low cost and could also be extended toward the detection of other types of bacterial toxins via loading different probes. Therefore, this work offers a reliable strategy to construct robust platforms for rapid biological detection in practical applications of food safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Gao
- College of Engineering, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Wenqiang Zhang
- College of Engineering, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100083, China
| | - De Gong
- School of Mechanical Engineering & Automation, Beihang University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Chao Liang
- College of Engineering, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Yuan Su
- Food Laboratory of Zhongyuan, Key Laboratory of Precision Nutrition and Food Quality, Department of Nutrition and Health, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Guanya Peng
- School of Mechanical Engineering & Automation, Beihang University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Xue Deng
- College of Engineering, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Wentao Xu
- Food Laboratory of Zhongyuan, Key Laboratory of Precision Nutrition and Food Quality, Department of Nutrition and Health, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Jun Cai
- School of Mechanical Engineering & Automation, Beihang University, Beijing 100191, China
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2
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Kim J, Mayorga-Burrezo P, Song SJ, Mayorga-Martinez CC, Medina-Sánchez M, Pané S, Pumera M. Advanced materials for micro/nanorobotics. Chem Soc Rev 2024; 53:9190-9253. [PMID: 39139002 DOI: 10.1039/d3cs00777d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/15/2024]
Abstract
Autonomous micro/nanorobots capable of performing programmed missions are at the forefront of next-generation micromachinery. These small robotic systems are predominantly constructed using functional components sourced from micro- and nanoscale materials; therefore, combining them with various advanced materials represents a pivotal direction toward achieving a higher level of intelligence and multifunctionality. This review provides a comprehensive overview of advanced materials for innovative micro/nanorobotics, focusing on the five families of materials that have witnessed the most rapid advancements over the last decade: two-dimensional materials, metal-organic frameworks, semiconductors, polymers, and biological cells. Their unique physicochemical, mechanical, optical, and biological properties have been integrated into micro/nanorobots to achieve greater maneuverability, programmability, intelligence, and multifunctionality in collective behaviors. The design and fabrication methods for hybrid robotic systems are discussed based on the material categories. In addition, their promising potential for powering motion and/or (multi-)functionality is described and the fundamental principles underlying them are explained. Finally, their extensive use in a variety of applications, including environmental remediation, (bio)sensing, therapeutics, etc., and remaining challenges and perspectives for future research are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeonghyo Kim
- Advanced Nanorobots & Multiscale Robotics Laboratory, Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, VSB - Technical University of Ostrava, 17. listopadu 2172/15, Ostrava 70800, Czech Republic.
| | - Paula Mayorga-Burrezo
- Future Energy and Innovation Laboratory, Central European Institute of Technology, Brno University of Technology, Purkyňova 123, Brno 61200, Czech Republic
| | - Su-Jin Song
- Advanced Nanorobots & Multiscale Robotics Laboratory, Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, VSB - Technical University of Ostrava, 17. listopadu 2172/15, Ostrava 70800, Czech Republic.
| | - Carmen C Mayorga-Martinez
- Advanced Nanorobots & Multiscale Robotics Laboratory, Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, VSB - Technical University of Ostrava, 17. listopadu 2172/15, Ostrava 70800, Czech Republic.
| | - Mariana Medina-Sánchez
- CIC nanoGUNE BRTA, Tolosa Hiribidea 76, San Sebastián, 20018, Spain
- IKERBASQUE, Basque Foundation for Science, Plaza Euskadi, 5, Bilbao, 48009, Spain
- Micro- and NanoBiomedical Engineering Group (MNBE), Institute for Emerging Electronic Technologies, Leibniz Institute for Solid State and Materials Research (IFW), 01069, Dresden, Germany
- Chair of Micro- and Nano-Biosystems, Center for Molecular Bioengineering (B CUBE), Dresden University of Technology, 01062, Dresden, Germany
| | - Salvador Pané
- Multi-Scale Robotics Lab, Institute of Robotics and Intelligent Systems, ETH Zürich, Tannenstrasse 3, CH-8092 Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Martin Pumera
- Advanced Nanorobots & Multiscale Robotics Laboratory, Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, VSB - Technical University of Ostrava, 17. listopadu 2172/15, Ostrava 70800, Czech Republic.
- Future Energy and Innovation Laboratory, Central European Institute of Technology, Brno University of Technology, Purkyňova 123, Brno 61200, Czech Republic
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Yonsei University, 50 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul 03722, Republic of Korea
- Department of Medical Research, China Medical University Hospital, China Medical University, No. 91 Hsueh-Shih Road, Taichung, Taiwan
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3
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Yang Z, Xu C, Lee JX, Lum GZ. Magnetic Miniature Soft Robot with Reprogrammable Drug-Dispensing Functionalities: Toward Advanced Targeted Combination Therapy. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2024:e2408750. [PMID: 39246210 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202408750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2024] [Revised: 08/26/2024] [Indexed: 09/10/2024]
Abstract
Miniature robots are untethered actuators, which have great prospects to transform targeted drug delivery because they can potentially deliver high concentrations of medicine to the disease site(s) with minimal complications. However, existing miniature robots cannot perform advanced targeted combination therapy; majority of them can at most transport one type of drug, while those that can carry multiple drugs are unable to change their drug-dispensing sequence and dosage. Furthermore, the latter robots cannot transport more than three types of drugs, selectively dispense their drugs, maintain their mobility, or release their drugs at multiple sites. Here, a millimeter-scale soft robot is proposed, which can be actuated by alternating magnetic fields to dispense four types of drugs with reprogrammable drug-dispensing sequence and dosage (dispensing rates: 0.0992-0.231 µL h-1). This robot has six degrees-of-freedom motions, and it can deliver its drugs to multiple desired sites by rolling and two-anchor crawling across unstructured environments with negligible drug leakage. Such dexterity is highly desirable and unprecedented for miniature robots with drug-dispensing capabilities. The soft robot therefore has great potential to enable advanced targeted combination therapy, where four types of drugs must be delivered to various disease sites, each with a specific sequence and dosage of drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zilin Yang
- School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 50 Nanyang Avenue, Singapore, 639798, Singapore
| | - Changyu Xu
- School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 50 Nanyang Avenue, Singapore, 639798, Singapore
| | - Jia Xin Lee
- Rehabilitation Research Institute of Singapore, Nanyang Technological University, 11 Mandalay Road, Singapore, 308232, Singapore
| | - Guo Zhan Lum
- School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 50 Nanyang Avenue, Singapore, 639798, Singapore
- Rehabilitation Research Institute of Singapore, Nanyang Technological University, 11 Mandalay Road, Singapore, 308232, Singapore
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4
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Iacovacci V, Diller E, Ahmed D, Menciassi A. Medical Microrobots. Annu Rev Biomed Eng 2024; 26:561-591. [PMID: 38594937 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-bioeng-081523-033131] [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: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
Scientists around the world have long aimed to produce miniature robots that can be controlled inside the human body to aid doctors in identifying and treating diseases. Such microrobots hold the potential to access hard-to-reach areas of the body through the natural lumina. Wireless access has the potential to overcome drawbacks of systemic therapy, as well as to enable completely new minimally invasive procedures. The aim of this review is fourfold: first, to provide a collection of valuable anatomical and physiological information on the target working environments together with engineering tools for the design of medical microrobots; second, to provide a comprehensive updated survey of the technological state of the art in relevant classes of medical microrobots; third, to analyze currently available tracking and closed-loop control strategies compatible with the in-body environment; and fourth, to explore the challenges still in place, to steer and inspire future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronica Iacovacci
- Department of Excellence Robotics & AI, Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna, Pisa, Italy
- BioRobotics Institute, Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna, Pisa, Italy; ,
| | - Eric Diller
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Robotics Institute, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Daniel Ahmed
- Acoustic Robotics Systems Lab, Institute of Robotics and Intelligent Systems, ETH Zurich, Rüschlikon, Switzerland
| | - Arianna Menciassi
- Department of Excellence Robotics & AI, Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna, Pisa, Italy
- BioRobotics Institute, Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna, Pisa, Italy; ,
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5
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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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6
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Mayorga-Burrezo P, Mayorga-Martinez CC, Kuchař M, Pumera M. Methamphetamine Removal from Aquatic Environments by Magnetic Microrobots with Cyclodextrin Chiral Recognition Elements. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2024; 20:e2306943. [PMID: 38239086 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202306943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2023] [Revised: 01/07/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024]
Abstract
The growing consumption of drugs of abuse together with the inefficiency of the current wastewater treatment plants toward their presence has resulted in an emergent class of pollutants. Thus, the development of alternative approaches to remediate this environmental threat is urgently needed. Microrobots, combining autonomous motion with great tunability for the development of specific tasks, have turned into promising candidates to take on the challenge. Here, hybrid urchin-like hematite (α-Fe2O3) microparticles carrying magnetite (Fe3O4) nanoparticles and surface functionalization with organic β-cyclodextrin (CD) molecules are prepared with the aim of on-the-fly encapsulation of illicit drugs into the linked CD cavities of moving microrobots. The resulting mag-CD microrobots are tested against methamphetamine (MA), proving their ability for the removal of this psychoactive substance. A dramatically enhanced capture of MA from water with active magnetically powered microrobots when compared with static passive CD-modified particles is demonstrated. This work shows the advantages of enhanced mass transfer provided by the externally controlled magnetic navigation in microrobots that together with the versatility of their design is an efficient strategy to clean polluted waters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula Mayorga-Burrezo
- Future Energy and Innovation Laboratory, Central European Institute of Technology, Brno University of Technology, Purkyňova 656/123, Brno, CZ-616 00, Czech Republic
| | - Carmen C Mayorga-Martinez
- Center for Advanced Functional Nanorobots, University of Chemistry and Technology Prague, Technická 5, Prague 6, 166 28, Czech Republic
| | - Martin Kuchař
- Forensic Laboratory of Biologically Active Substances, Department of Chemistry of Natural Compounds, University of Chemistry and Technology Prague, Technická 5, Prague 6, 166 28, Czech Republic
- Department of Experimental Neurobiology, National Institute of Mental Health, Topolová 748, Klecany, 250 67, Czech Republic
| | - Martin Pumera
- Future Energy and Innovation Laboratory, Central European Institute of Technology, Brno University of Technology, Purkyňova 656/123, Brno, CZ-616 00, Czech Republic
- Department of Medical Research, China Medical University Hospital, China Medical University, No. 91 Hsueh-Shih Road, Taichung, 40402, Taiwan
- Department of Paediatrics and Inherited Metabolic Disorders, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University Prague, Ke Karlovu 2, Prague, 128 08, Czech Republic
- Advanced Nanorobots & Multiscale Robotics Lab, Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, VSB - Technical University of Ostrava, 17 listopadu 2172/15, Ostrava, 70800, Czech Republic
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Yonsei University, 50 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, 03722, South Korea
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7
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Ussia M, Urso M, Oral CM, Peng X, Pumera M. Magnetic Microrobot Swarms with Polymeric Hands Catching Bacteria and Microplastics in Water. ACS NANO 2024; 18:13171-13183. [PMID: 38717036 PMCID: PMC11112980 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.4c02115] [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: 02/13/2024] [Revised: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
The forefront of micro- and nanorobot research involves the development of smart swimming micromachines emulating the complexity of natural systems, such as the swarming and collective behaviors typically observed in animals and microorganisms, for efficient task execution. This study introduces magnetically controlled microrobots that possess polymeric sequestrant "hands" decorating a magnetic core. Under the influence of external magnetic fields, the functionalized magnetic beads dynamically self-assemble from individual microparticles into well-defined rotating planes of diverse dimensions, allowing modulation of their propulsion speed, and exhibiting a collective motion. These mobile microrobotic swarms can actively capture free-swimming bacteria and dispersed microplastics "on-the-fly", thereby cleaning aquatic environments. Unlike conventional methods, these microrobots can be collected from the complex media and can release the captured contaminants in a second vessel in a controllable manner, that is, using ultrasound, offering a sustainable solution for repeated use in decontamination processes. Additionally, the residual water is subjected to UV irradiation to eliminate any remaining bacteria, providing a comprehensive cleaning solution. In summary, this study shows a swarming microrobot design for water decontamination processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina Ussia
- Future
Energy and Innovation Laboratory, Central European Institute of Technology, Brno University of Technology, Purkyňova 123, Brno 61200, Czech Republic
| | - Mario Urso
- Future
Energy and Innovation Laboratory, Central European Institute of Technology, Brno University of Technology, Purkyňova 123, Brno 61200, Czech Republic
| | - Cagatay M. Oral
- Future
Energy and Innovation Laboratory, Central European Institute of Technology, Brno University of Technology, Purkyňova 123, Brno 61200, Czech Republic
| | - Xia Peng
- Future
Energy and Innovation Laboratory, Central European Institute of Technology, Brno University of Technology, Purkyňova 123, Brno 61200, Czech Republic
| | - Martin Pumera
- Future
Energy and Innovation Laboratory, Central European Institute of Technology, Brno University of Technology, Purkyňova 123, Brno 61200, Czech Republic
- Advanced
Nanorobots & Multiscale Robotics Laboratory, Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, VSB - Technical
University of Ostrava, 17. listopadu 2172/15, Ostrava 70800, Czech Republic
- Department
of Medical Research, China Medical University Hospital, China Medical University, Hsueh-Shih Road 91, Taichung 40402, Taiwan
- Department
of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Yonsei University, Yonsei-ro
50, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul 03722, Republic of Korea
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8
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Lacroce E, Pizzetti F, Urrego NMB, Nunziata G, Masi M, Rossi F. Magnetically Active Bicontinuous Polymer Structures for Multiple Controlled Drug Delivery. Macromol Biosci 2024:e2400084. [PMID: 38733249 DOI: 10.1002/mabi.202400084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2024] [Revised: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024]
Abstract
The targeted delivery of drugs using wireless navigable magnetic robots allows the delivery of drug molecules to be controlled non only in time but also in space, improving medical outcomes. The main disadvantages behind their use lies in the low amount of drug that can be transported and the single nature of drug that can be loaded (hydrophilic or hydrophobic). These considerations limit their use in co-delivery systems, now recognized to be very promising for many different pathologies. A magnetic bijel-like structure is developed to load and release different types of molecules (hydrophilic and hydrophobic). In this work, the use of ε-caprolactone is explored, which can polymerize, forming hydrophobic domains (oil phase). After mixing with iron oxide nanoparticles (NPs), the water dispersion creates a magnetic biphasic porous structure without phase separation. The resulting device shows good performance both in magnetic actuation and as a drug delivery system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Lacroce
- Department of Chemistry, Materials and Chemical Engineering 'Giulio Natta', Politecnico di Milano, Piazza Leonardo da Vinci 32, Milan, 20133, Italy
| | - Fabio Pizzetti
- Department of Chemistry, Materials and Chemical Engineering 'Giulio Natta', Politecnico di Milano, Piazza Leonardo da Vinci 32, Milan, 20133, Italy
| | - Nicolás M Barbosa Urrego
- Department of Chemistry, Materials and Chemical Engineering 'Giulio Natta', Politecnico di Milano, Piazza Leonardo da Vinci 32, Milan, 20133, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Nunziata
- Department of Chemistry, Materials and Chemical Engineering 'Giulio Natta', Politecnico di Milano, Piazza Leonardo da Vinci 32, Milan, 20133, Italy
| | - Maurizio Masi
- Department of Chemistry, Materials and Chemical Engineering 'Giulio Natta', Politecnico di Milano, Piazza Leonardo da Vinci 32, Milan, 20133, Italy
| | - Filippo Rossi
- Department of Chemistry, Materials and Chemical Engineering 'Giulio Natta', Politecnico di Milano, Piazza Leonardo da Vinci 32, Milan, 20133, Italy
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9
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Janićijević Ž, Huang T, Bojórquez DIS, Tonmoy TH, Pané S, Makarov D, Baraban L. Design and Development of Transient Sensing Devices for Healthcare Applications. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 11:e2307232. [PMID: 38484201 PMCID: PMC11132064 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202307232] [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: 09/29/2023] [Revised: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
With the ever-growing requirements in the healthcare sector aimed at personalized diagnostics and treatment, continuous and real-time monitoring of relevant parameters is gaining significant traction. In many applications, health status monitoring may be carried out by dedicated wearable or implantable sensing devices only within a defined period and followed by sensor removal without additional risks for the patient. At the same time, disposal of the increasing number of conventional portable electronic devices with short life cycles raises serious environmental concerns due to the dangerous accumulation of electronic and chemical waste. An attractive solution to address these complex and contradictory demands is offered by biodegradable sensing devices. Such devices may be able to perform required tests within a programmed period and then disappear by safe resorption in the body or harmless degradation in the environment. This work critically assesses the design and development concepts related to biodegradable and bioresorbable sensors for healthcare applications. Different aspects are comprehensively addressed, from fundamental material properties and sensing principles to application-tailored designs, fabrication techniques, and device implementations. The emerging approaches spanning the last 5 years are emphasized and a broad insight into the most important challenges and future perspectives of biodegradable sensors in healthcare are provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Željko Janićijević
- Institute of Radiopharmaceutical Cancer ResearchHelmholtz‐Zentrum Dresden‐Rossendorf e. V.01328DresdenGermany
| | - Tao Huang
- Institute of Radiopharmaceutical Cancer ResearchHelmholtz‐Zentrum Dresden‐Rossendorf e. V.01328DresdenGermany
| | | | - Taufhik Hossain Tonmoy
- Institute of Radiopharmaceutical Cancer ResearchHelmholtz‐Zentrum Dresden‐Rossendorf e. V.01328DresdenGermany
| | - Salvador Pané
- Multi‐Scale Robotics Lab (MSRL)Institute of Robotics & Intelligent Systems (IRIS)ETH ZürichZürich8092Switzerland
| | - Denys Makarov
- Institute of Ion Beam Physics and Materials ResearchHelmholtz‐Zentrum Dresden‐Rossendorf e. V.01328DresdenGermany
| | - Larysa Baraban
- Institute of Radiopharmaceutical Cancer ResearchHelmholtz‐Zentrum Dresden‐Rossendorf e. V.01328DresdenGermany
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10
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Gustavsson L, Peng B, Plamont R, Ikkala O. Propulsion of zwitterionic surfactant-stabilized water-in-oil droplets by low electric fields. Chem Commun (Camb) 2024; 60:4467-4470. [PMID: 38563781 PMCID: PMC11025442 DOI: 10.1039/d3cc05464k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
We show directional and controllable propulsion of zwitterionic surfactant-stabilized water-in-oil droplets driven by low electric fields. Our results suggest that the propulsion mechanism is based on stimulus-responsive on-demand interfacial phenomena.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lotta Gustavsson
- Department of Applied Physics, Aalto University, Espoo FI-02150, Finland.
- Center of Excellence in Life Inspired Hybrid Materials (LIBER), Finland
| | - Bo Peng
- Department of Applied Physics, Aalto University, Espoo FI-02150, Finland.
- Center of Excellence in Life Inspired Hybrid Materials (LIBER), Finland
| | - Rémi Plamont
- Department of Applied Physics, Aalto University, Espoo FI-02150, Finland.
- Center of Excellence in Life Inspired Hybrid Materials (LIBER), Finland
- Institut Charles Sadron - CNRS - UPR22, BP 84047, Strasbourg 67034 Cedex 2, France.
| | - Olli Ikkala
- Department of Applied Physics, Aalto University, Espoo FI-02150, Finland.
- Center of Excellence in Life Inspired Hybrid Materials (LIBER), Finland
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11
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Bo Y, Wang H, Niu H, He X, Xue Q, Li Z, Yang H, Niu F. Advancements in materials, manufacturing, propulsion and localization: propelling soft robotics for medical applications. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2024; 11:1327441. [PMID: 38260727 PMCID: PMC10800571 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2023.1327441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Soft robotics is an emerging field showing immense potential for biomedical applications. This review summarizes recent advancements in soft robotics for in vitro and in vivo medical contexts. Their inherent flexibility, adaptability, and biocompatibility enable diverse capabilities from surgical assistance to minimally invasive diagnosis and therapy. Intelligent stimuli-responsive materials and bioinspired designs are enhancing functionality while improving biocompatibility. Additive manufacturing techniques facilitate rapid prototyping and customization. Untethered chemical, biological, and wireless propulsion methods are overcoming previous constraints to access new sites. Meanwhile, advances in tracking modalities like computed tomography, fluorescence and ultrasound imaging enable precision localization and control enable in vivo applications. While still maturing, soft robotics promises more intelligent, less invasive technologies to improve patient care. Continuing research into biocompatibility, power supplies, biomimetics, and seamless localization will help translate soft robots into widespread clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunwen Bo
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Suzhou University of Science and Technology, Suzhou, China
| | - Haochen Wang
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Suzhou University of Science and Technology, Suzhou, China
| | - Hui Niu
- Department of Pathology, Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Xinyang He
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Suzhou University of Science and Technology, Suzhou, China
| | - Quhao Xue
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Suzhou University of Science and Technology, Suzhou, China
| | - Zexi Li
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Suzhou University of Science and Technology, Suzhou, China
| | - Hao Yang
- Robotics and Microsystems Center, School of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Fuzhou Niu
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Suzhou University of Science and Technology, Suzhou, China
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12
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Su L, Jin D, Wang Y, Wang Q, Pan C, Jiang S, Yang H, Yang Z, Wang X, Xia N, Chan KF, Chiu PWY, Sung JJY, Zhang L. Modularized microrobot with lock-and-detachable modules for targeted cell delivery in bile duct. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2023; 9:eadj0883. [PMID: 38100592 PMCID: PMC10848723 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adj0883] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023]
Abstract
The magnetic microrobots promise benefits in minimally invasive cell-based therapy. However, they generally suffer from an inevitable compromise between their magnetic responsiveness and biomedical functions. Herein, we report a modularized microrobot consisting of magnetic actuation (MA) and cell scaffold (CS) modules. The MA module with strong magnetism and pH-responsive deformability and the CS module with cell loading-release capabilities were fabricated by three-dimensional printing technique. Subsequently, assembly of modules was performed by designing a shaft-hole structure and customizing their relative dimensions, which enabled magnetic navigation in complex environments, while not deteriorating the cellular functionalities. On-demand disassembly at targeted lesion was then realized to facilitate CS module delivery and retrieval of the MA module. Furthermore, the feasibility of proposed system was validated in an in vivo rabbit bile duct. Therefore, this work presents a modular design-based strategy that enables uncompromised fabrication of multifunctional microrobots and stimulates their development for future cell-based therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Su
- Department of Mechanical and Automation Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Dongdong Jin
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology (Shenzhen), Shenzhen, Guangdong 518055, China
| | - Yuqiong Wang
- Department of Mechanical and Automation Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Qinglong Wang
- Department of Mechanical and Automation Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Chengfeng Pan
- Department of Mechanical and Automation Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Shuai Jiang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Haojin Yang
- Department of Mechanical and Automation Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Zhengxin Yang
- Department of Mechanical and Automation Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Xin Wang
- Department of Mechanical and Automation Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Neng Xia
- Department of Mechanical and Automation Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Kai Fung Chan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Multi-Scale Medical Robotics Center, Hong Kong Science Park, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Chow Yuk Ho Technology Centre for Innovative Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Philip Wai Yan Chiu
- Multi-Scale Medical Robotics Center, Hong Kong Science Park, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Chow Yuk Ho Technology Centre for Innovative Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Department of Surgery, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Joseph Jao-Yiu Sung
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Li Zhang
- Department of Mechanical and Automation Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Multi-Scale Medical Robotics Center, Hong Kong Science Park, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Department of Surgery, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- CUHK T Stone Robotics Institute, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
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Abstract
Biomedical microrobots could overcome current challenges in targeted therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bradley J Nelson
- Multi-Scale Robotics Lab, Department of Mechanical and Process Engineering, ETH Zürich, 8092, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Salvador Pané
- Multi-Scale Robotics Lab, Department of Mechanical and Process Engineering, ETH Zürich, 8092, Zürich, Switzerland
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14
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Wang Q, Yang S, Zhang L. Untethered Micro/Nanorobots for Remote Sensing: Toward Intelligent Platform. NANO-MICRO LETTERS 2023; 16:40. [PMID: 38032461 PMCID: PMC10689342 DOI: 10.1007/s40820-023-01261-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023]
Abstract
Untethered micro/nanorobots that can wirelessly control their motion and deformation state have gained enormous interest in remote sensing applications due to their unique motion characteristics in various media and diverse functionalities. Researchers are developing micro/nanorobots as innovative tools to improve sensing performance and miniaturize sensing systems, enabling in situ detection of substances that traditional sensing methods struggle to achieve. Over the past decade of development, significant research progress has been made in designing sensing strategies based on micro/nanorobots, employing various coordinated control and sensing approaches. This review summarizes the latest developments on micro/nanorobots for remote sensing applications by utilizing the self-generated signals of the robots, robot behavior, microrobotic manipulation, and robot-environment interactions. Providing recent studies and relevant applications in remote sensing, we also discuss the challenges and future perspectives facing micro/nanorobots-based intelligent sensing platforms to achieve sensing in complex environments, translating lab research achievements into widespread real applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qianqian Wang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Design and Manufacture of Micro-Nano Biomedical Instruments, School of Mechanical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing, 211189, People's Republic of China.
| | - Shihao Yang
- Department of Mechanical and Automation Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong, 999077, People's Republic of China
| | - Li Zhang
- Department of Mechanical and Automation Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong, 999077, People's Republic of China.
- Chow Yuk Ho Technology Centre for Innovative Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong, 999077, People's Republic of China.
- T Stone Robotics Institute, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong, 999077, People's Republic of China.
- Department of Surgery, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong, 999077, People's Republic of China.
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15
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Del Campo Fonseca A, Glück C, Droux J, Ferry Y, Frei C, Wegener S, Weber B, El Amki M, Ahmed D. Ultrasound trapping and navigation of microrobots in the mouse brain vasculature. Nat Commun 2023; 14:5889. [PMID: 37735158 PMCID: PMC10514062 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-41557-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023] Open
Abstract
The intricate and delicate anatomy of the brain poses significant challenges for the treatment of cerebrovascular and neurodegenerative diseases. Thus, precise local drug delivery in hard-to-reach brain regions remains an urgent medical need. Microrobots offer potential solutions; however, their functionality in the brain remains restricted by limited imaging capabilities and complications within blood vessels, such as high blood flows, osmotic pressures, and cellular responses. Here, we introduce ultrasound-activated microrobots for in vivo navigation in brain vasculature. Our microrobots consist of lipid-shelled microbubbles that autonomously aggregate and propel under ultrasound irradiation. We investigate their capacities in vitro within microfluidic-based vasculatures and in vivo within vessels of a living mouse brain. These microrobots self-assemble and execute upstream motion in brain vasculature, achieving velocities up to 1.5 µm/s and moving against blood flows of ~10 mm/s. This work represents a substantial advance towards the therapeutic application of microrobots within the complex brain vasculature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexia Del Campo Fonseca
- Department of Mechanical and Process Engineering, Acoustic Robotics Systems Lab, ETH, Säumerstrasse 4, 8803, Rüschlikon, Switzerland
| | - Chaim Glück
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 190, 8057, Zürich, Switzerland
- Neuroscience Center Zurich, University of Zurich, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Jeanne Droux
- Neuroscience Center Zurich, University of Zurich, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital and University of Zurich, and Zurich Neuroscience Center, Zurich, 8091, Switzerland
| | - Yann Ferry
- Department of Mechanical and Process Engineering, Acoustic Robotics Systems Lab, ETH, Säumerstrasse 4, 8803, Rüschlikon, Switzerland
| | - Carole Frei
- Department of Mechanical and Process Engineering, Acoustic Robotics Systems Lab, ETH, Säumerstrasse 4, 8803, Rüschlikon, Switzerland
| | - Susanne Wegener
- Neuroscience Center Zurich, University of Zurich, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital and University of Zurich, and Zurich Neuroscience Center, Zurich, 8091, Switzerland
| | - Bruno Weber
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 190, 8057, Zürich, Switzerland
- Neuroscience Center Zurich, University of Zurich, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Mohamad El Amki
- Neuroscience Center Zurich, University of Zurich, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital and University of Zurich, and Zurich Neuroscience Center, Zurich, 8091, Switzerland.
| | - Daniel Ahmed
- Department of Mechanical and Process Engineering, Acoustic Robotics Systems Lab, ETH, Säumerstrasse 4, 8803, Rüschlikon, Switzerland.
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16
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Zhang S, Zhu C, Huang W, Liu H, Yang M, Zeng X, Zhang Z, Liu J, Shi J, Hu Y, Shi X, Wang ZH. Recent progress of micro/nanomotors to overcome physiological barriers in the gastrointestinal tract. J Control Release 2023; 360:514-527. [PMID: 37429360 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2023.07.005] [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: 03/28/2023] [Revised: 07/01/2023] [Accepted: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 07/12/2023]
Abstract
Oral administration is a convenient administration route for gastrointestinal disease therapy with good patient compliance. But the nonspecific distribution of the oral drugs may cause serious side effects. In recent years, oral drug delivery systems (ODDS) have been applied to deliver the drugs to the gastrointestinal disease sites with decreased side effects. However, the delivery efficiency of ODDS is tremendously limited by physiological barriers in the gastrointestinal sites, such as the long and complex gastrointestinal tract, mucus layer, and epithelial barrier. Micro/nanomotors (MNMs) are micro/nanoscale devices that transfer various energy sources into autonomous motion. The outstanding motion characteristics of MNMs inspired the development of targeted drug delivery, especially the oral drug delivery. However, a comprehensive review of oral MNMs for the gastrointestinal diseases therapy is still lacking. Herein, the physiological barriers of ODDS were comprehensively reviewed. Afterward, the applications of MNMs in ODDS for overcoming the physiological barriers in the past 5 years were highlighted. Finally, future perspectives and challenges of MNMs in ODDS are discussed as well. This review will provide inspiration and direction of MNMs for the therapy of gastrointestinal diseases, pushing forward the clinical application of MNMs in oral drug delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuhao Zhang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China; Henan Key Laboratory of Targeting Therapy and Diagnosis for Critical Diseases, Zhengzhou 450001, China; Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Preparation Technologies, Ministry of Education, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Chaoran Zhu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China; Henan Key Laboratory of Targeting Therapy and Diagnosis for Critical Diseases, Zhengzhou 450001, China; Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Preparation Technologies, Ministry of Education, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Wanting Huang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China; Henan Key Laboratory of Targeting Therapy and Diagnosis for Critical Diseases, Zhengzhou 450001, China; Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Preparation Technologies, Ministry of Education, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Hua Liu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China; Henan Key Laboratory of Targeting Therapy and Diagnosis for Critical Diseases, Zhengzhou 450001, China; Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Preparation Technologies, Ministry of Education, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Mingzhu Yang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China; Henan Key Laboratory of Targeting Therapy and Diagnosis for Critical Diseases, Zhengzhou 450001, China; Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Preparation Technologies, Ministry of Education, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Xuejiao Zeng
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China; Henan Key Laboratory of Targeting Therapy and Diagnosis for Critical Diseases, Zhengzhou 450001, China; Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Preparation Technologies, Ministry of Education, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Zhenzhong Zhang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China; Henan Key Laboratory of Targeting Therapy and Diagnosis for Critical Diseases, Zhengzhou 450001, China; Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Preparation Technologies, Ministry of Education, Zhengzhou 450001, China; State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention & Treatment, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Junjie Liu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China; Henan Key Laboratory of Targeting Therapy and Diagnosis for Critical Diseases, Zhengzhou 450001, China; Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Preparation Technologies, Ministry of Education, Zhengzhou 450001, China; State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention & Treatment, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Jinjin Shi
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China; Henan Key Laboratory of Targeting Therapy and Diagnosis for Critical Diseases, Zhengzhou 450001, China; Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Preparation Technologies, Ministry of Education, Zhengzhou 450001, China; State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention & Treatment, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Yurong Hu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China; Henan Key Laboratory of Targeting Therapy and Diagnosis for Critical Diseases, Zhengzhou 450001, China; Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Preparation Technologies, Ministry of Education, Zhengzhou 450001, China; State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention & Treatment, Zhengzhou 450001, China.
| | - Xiufang Shi
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China; Henan Key Laboratory of Targeting Therapy and Diagnosis for Critical Diseases, Zhengzhou 450001, China; Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Preparation Technologies, Ministry of Education, Zhengzhou 450001, China; State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention & Treatment, Zhengzhou 450001, China.
| | - Zhi-Hao Wang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China; Henan Key Laboratory of Targeting Therapy and Diagnosis for Critical Diseases, Zhengzhou 450001, China; Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Preparation Technologies, Ministry of Education, Zhengzhou 450001, China; State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention & Treatment, Zhengzhou 450001, China.
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17
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Ma ZC, Fan J, Wang H, Chen W, Yang GZ, Han B. Microfluidic Approaches for Microactuators: From Fabrication, Actuation, to Functionalization. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2023; 19:e2300469. [PMID: 36855777 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202300469] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
Microactuators can autonomously convert external energy into specific mechanical motions. With the feature sizes varying from the micrometer to millimeter scale, microactuators offer many operation and control possibilities for miniaturized devices. In recent years, advanced microfluidic techniques have revolutionized the fabrication, actuation, and functionalization of microactuators. Microfluidics can not only facilitate fabrication with continuously changing materials but also deliver various signals to stimulate the microactuators as desired, and consequently improve microfluidic chips with multiple functions. Herein, this cross-field that systematically correlates microactuator properties and microfluidic functions is comprehensively reviewed. The fabrication strategies are classified into two types according to the flow state of the microfluids: stop-flow and continuous-flow prototyping. The working mechanism of microactuators in microfluidic chips is discussed in detail. Finally, the applications of microactuator-enriched functional chips, which include tunable imaging devices, micromanipulation tools, micromotors, and microsensors, are summarized. The existing challenges and future perspectives are also discussed. It is believed that with the rapid progress of this cutting-edge field, intelligent microsystems may realize high-throughput manipulation, characterization, and analysis of tiny objects and find broad applications in various fields, such as tissue engineering, micro/nanorobotics, and analytical devices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhuo-Chen Ma
- Department of Automation, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China
- Key Laboratory of System Control and Information Processing, Ministry of Education of China, Shanghai, 200240, China
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Intelligent Control and Management, Shanghai, 200240, China
- Institute of Medical Robotics, School of Biomedical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, No. 800 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai, 200240, China
| | - Jiahao Fan
- Department of Automation, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China
- Key Laboratory of System Control and Information Processing, Ministry of Education of China, Shanghai, 200240, China
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Intelligent Control and Management, Shanghai, 200240, China
| | - Hesheng Wang
- Department of Automation, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China
- Key Laboratory of System Control and Information Processing, Ministry of Education of China, Shanghai, 200240, China
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Intelligent Control and Management, Shanghai, 200240, China
| | - Weidong Chen
- Department of Automation, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China
- Key Laboratory of System Control and Information Processing, Ministry of Education of China, Shanghai, 200240, China
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Intelligent Control and Management, Shanghai, 200240, China
- Institute of Medical Robotics, School of Biomedical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, No. 800 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai, 200240, China
| | - Guang-Zhong Yang
- Institute of Medical Robotics, School of Biomedical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, No. 800 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai, 200240, China
| | - Bing Han
- Institute of Medical Robotics, School of Biomedical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, No. 800 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai, 200240, China
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18
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Xiong J, Shi Y, Pan T, Lu D, He Z, Wang D, Li X, Zhu G, Li B, Xin H. Wake-Riding Effect-Inspired Opto-Hydrodynamic Diatombot for Non-Invasive Trapping and Removal of Nano-Biothreats. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2023; 10:e2301365. [PMID: 37012610 PMCID: PMC10288256 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202301365] [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: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
Contamination of nano-biothreats, such as viruses, mycoplasmas, and pathogenic bacteria, is widespread in cell cultures and greatly threatens many cell-based bio-analysis and biomanufacturing. However, non-invasive trapping and removal of such biothreats during cell culturing, particularly many precious cells, is of great challenge. Here, inspired by the wake-riding effect, a biocompatible opto-hydrodynamic diatombot (OHD) based on optical trapping navigated rotational diatom (Phaeodactylum tricornutum Bohlin) for non-invasive trapping and removal of nano-biothreats is reported. Combining the opto-hydrodynamic effect and optical trapping, this rotational OHD enables the trapping of bio-targets down to sub-100 nm. Different nano-biothreats, such as adenoviruses, pathogenic bacteria, and mycoplasmas, are first demonstrated to be effectively trapped and removed by the OHD, without affecting culturing cells including precious cells such as hippocampal neurons. The removal efficiency is greatly enhanced via reconfigurable OHD array construction. Importantly, these OHDs show remarkable antibacterial capability, and further facilitate targeted gene delivery. This OHD serves as a smart micro-robotic platform for effective trapping and active removal of nano-biothreats in bio-microenvironments, and especially for cell culturing of many precious cells, with great promises for benefiting cell-based bio-analysis and biomanufacturing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianyun Xiong
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Nanophotonic ManipulationInstitute of NanophotonicsJinan UniversityGuangzhou511443P. R. China
| | - Yang Shi
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Nanophotonic ManipulationInstitute of NanophotonicsJinan UniversityGuangzhou511443P. R. China
| | - Ting Pan
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Nanophotonic ManipulationInstitute of NanophotonicsJinan UniversityGuangzhou511443P. R. China
| | - Dengyun Lu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Nanophotonic ManipulationInstitute of NanophotonicsJinan UniversityGuangzhou511443P. R. China
| | - Ziyi He
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Nanophotonic ManipulationInstitute of NanophotonicsJinan UniversityGuangzhou511443P. R. China
| | - Danning Wang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Nanophotonic ManipulationInstitute of NanophotonicsJinan UniversityGuangzhou511443P. R. China
| | - Xing Li
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Nanophotonic ManipulationInstitute of NanophotonicsJinan UniversityGuangzhou511443P. R. China
| | - Guoshuai Zhu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Nanophotonic ManipulationInstitute of NanophotonicsJinan UniversityGuangzhou511443P. R. China
| | - Baojun Li
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Nanophotonic ManipulationInstitute of NanophotonicsJinan UniversityGuangzhou511443P. R. China
| | - Hongbao Xin
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Nanophotonic ManipulationInstitute of NanophotonicsJinan UniversityGuangzhou511443P. R. China
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19
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Ye M, Zhou Y, Zhao H, Wang X. Magnetic Microrobots with Folate Targeting for Drug Delivery. CYBORG AND BIONIC SYSTEMS 2023; 4:0019. [PMID: 37223549 PMCID: PMC10202387 DOI: 10.34133/cbsystems.0019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2022] [Accepted: 03/02/2023] [Indexed: 09/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Untethered microrobots can be used for cargo delivery (e.g., drug molecules, stem cells, and genes) targeting designated areas. However, it is not enough to just reach the lesion site, as some drugs can only play the best therapeutic effect within the cells. To this end, folic acid (FA) was introduced into microrobots in this work as a key to mediate endocytosis of drugs into cells. The microrobots here were fabricated with biodegradable gelatin methacryloyl (GelMA) and modified with magnetic metal-organic framework (MOF). The porous structure of MOF and the hydrogel network of polymerized GelMA were used for the loading of enough FA and anticancer drug doxorubicin (DOX) respectively. Utilizing the magnetic property of magnetic MOF, these microrobots can gather around the lesion site with the navigation of magnetic fields. The combination effects of FA targeting and magnetic navigation substantially improve the anticancer efficiency of these microrobots. The result shows that the cancer cells inhibition rate of microrobots with FA can be up to 93%, while that of the ones without FA was only 78%. The introduction of FA is a useful method to improve the drug transportation ability of microrobots, providing a meaningful reference for further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Ye
- Shenzhen Institute of Artificial Intelligence and Robotics for Society (AIRS), The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518129, China
| | - Yan Zhou
- Shenzhen Institute of Artificial Intelligence and Robotics for Society (AIRS), The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518129, China
| | - Hongyu Zhao
- Shenzhen Institute of Artificial Intelligence and Robotics for Society (AIRS), The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518129, China
| | - Xiaopu Wang
- Shenzhen Institute of Artificial Intelligence and Robotics for Society (AIRS), The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518129, China
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20
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Wang B, Handschuh-Wang S, Shen J, Zhou X, Guo Z, Liu W, Pumera M, Zhang L. Small-Scale Robotics with Tailored Wettability. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2023; 35:e2205732. [PMID: 36113864 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202205732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2022] [Revised: 09/01/2022] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
Small-scale robots (SSRs) have emerged as promising and versatile tools in various biomedical, sensing, decontamination, and manipulation applications, as they are uniquely capable of performing tasks at small length scales. With the miniaturization of robots from the macroscale to millimeter-, micrometer-, and nanometer-scales, the viscous and surface forces, namely adhesive forces and surface tension have become dominant. These forces significantly impact motion efficiency. Surface engineering of robots with both hydrophilic and hydrophobic functionalization presents a brand-new pathway to overcome motion resistance and enhance the ability to target and regulate robots for various tasks. This review focuses on the current progress and future perspectives of SSRs with hydrophilic and hydrophobic modifications (including both tethered and untethered robots). The study emphasizes the distinct advantages of SSRs, such as improved maneuverability and reduced drag forces, and outlines their potential applications. With continued innovation, rational surface engineering is expected to endow SSRs with exceptional mobility and functionality, which can broaden their applications, enhance their penetration depth, reduce surface fouling, and inhibit bacterial adhesion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ben Wang
- College of Chemistry and Environmental Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Stephan Handschuh-Wang
- College of Chemistry and Environmental Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Jie Shen
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Spine Surgery, Department of Spine Surgery, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, 518036, China
| | - Xuechang Zhou
- College of Chemistry and Environmental Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Zhiguang Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Solid Lubrication, Lanzhou Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Science, Lanzhou, 730000, China
- Hubei Collaborative Innovation Centre for Advanced Organic Chemical Materials and Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for the Green Preparation and Application of Functional Materials, Hubei University, Wuhan, 430062, China
| | - Weimin Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Solid Lubrication, Lanzhou Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Science, Lanzhou, 730000, China
| | - Martin Pumera
- Future Energy and Innovation Laboratory, Central European Institute of Technology, Brno University of Technology, Purkyňova 123, Brno, 61200, Czech Republic
- Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, VSB - Technical University of Ostrava, 17. listopadu 2172/15, Ostrava, 70800, Czech Republic
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Yonsei University, 50 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-Gu, Seoul, 03722, South Korea
| | - Li Zhang
- Department of Mechanical and Automation Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin N.T., Hong Kong, 999077, China
- Department of Surgery, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin N.T., Hong Kong, 999077, China
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21
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Sun R, Song X, Zhou K, Zuo Y, Wang R, Rifaie-Graham O, Peeler DJ, Xie R, Leng Y, Geng H, Brachi G, Ma Y, Liu Y, Barron L, Stevens MM. Assembly of Fillable Microrobotic Systems by Microfluidic Loading with Dip Sealing. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2023; 35:e2207791. [PMID: 36502366 PMCID: PMC7615483 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202207791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2022] [Revised: 12/02/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Microrobots can provide spatiotemporally well-controlled cargo delivery that can improve therapeutic efficiency compared to conventional drug delivery strategies. Robust microfabrication methods to expand the variety of materials or cargoes that can be incorporated into microrobots can greatly broaden the scope of their functions. However, current surface coating or direct blending techniques used for cargo loading result in inefficient loading and poor cargo protection during transportation, which leads to cargo waste, degradation and non-specific release. Herein, a versatile platform to fabricate fillable microrobots using microfluidic loading and dip sealing (MLDS) is presented. MLDS enables the encapsulation of different types of cargoes within hollow microrobots and protection of cargo integrity. The technique is supported by high-resolution 3D printing with an integrated microfluidic loading system, which realizes a highly precise loading process and improves cargo loading capacity. A corresponding dip sealing strategy is developed to encase and protect the loaded cargo whilst maintaining the geometric and structural integrity of the loaded microrobots. This dip sealing technique is suitable for different materials, including thermal and light-responsive materials. The MLDS platform provides new opportunities for microrobotic systems in targeted drug delivery, environmental sensing, and chemically powered micromotor applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rujie Sun
- Department of Materials, Imperial College London, London SW7 2AZ, UK
| | - Xin Song
- Department of Materials, Imperial College London, London SW7 2AZ, UK
| | - Kun Zhou
- Department of Materials, Imperial College London, London SW7 2AZ, UK
| | - Yuyang Zuo
- Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, London SW7 2AZ, UK
| | - Richard Wang
- Department of Materials, Imperial College London, London SW7 2AZ, UK
| | | | - David J. Peeler
- Department of Materials, Imperial College London, London SW7 2AZ, UK
| | - Ruoxiao Xie
- Department of Materials, Imperial College London, London SW7 2AZ, UK
| | - Yixuan Leng
- Department of Materials, Imperial College London, London SW7 2AZ, UK
| | - Hongya Geng
- Institute of Biopharmaceutical and Health Engineering, Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Giulia Brachi
- Department of Materials, Imperial College London, London SW7 2AZ, UK
| | - Yun Ma
- Department of Materials, Imperial College London, London SW7 2AZ, UK
| | - Yutong Liu
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London SW7 2AZ, UK
| | - Lorna Barron
- Department of Materials, Imperial College London, London SW7 2AZ, UK
| | - Molly M. Stevens
- Department of Materials, Imperial College London, London SW7 2AZ, UK
- Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, London SW7 2AZ, UK
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Imperial College London, London SW7 2AZ, UK
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22
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Mayorga-Martinez CC, Castoralova M, Zelenka J, Ruml T, Pumera M. Swarming Magnetic Microrobots for Pathogen Isolation from Milk. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2023; 19:e2205047. [PMID: 36475385 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202205047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2022] [Revised: 11/01/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Bovine mastitis produced by Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) causes major problems in milk production due to the staphylococcal enterotoxins produced by this bacterium. These enterotoxins are stable and cannot be eradicated easily by common hygienic procedures once they are formed in dairy products. Here, magnetic microrobots (MagRobots) are developed based on paramagnetic hybrid microstructures loaded with IgG from rabbit serum that can bind and isolate S. aureus from milk in a concentration of 3.42 104 CFU g-1 (allowable minimum level established by the United States Food and Drug Administration, FDA). Protein A, which is present on the cell wall of S. aureus, selectively binds IgG from rabbit serum and loads the bacteria onto the surface of the MagRobots. The selective isolation of S. aureus is confirmed using a mixed suspension of S. aureus and Escherichia coli (E. coli). Moreover, this fuel-free system based on magnetic robots does not affect the natural milk microbiota or add any toxic compound resulting from fuel catalysis. This system can be used to isolate and transport efficiently S. aureus and discriminate it from nontarget bacteria for subsequent identification. Finally, this system can be scaled up for industrial use in food production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmen C Mayorga-Martinez
- Center for Advanced Functional Nanorobots, Department of Inorganic Chemistry, University of Chemistry and Technology Prague, Technicka 5, 166 28, Czech Republic
| | - Marketa Castoralova
- Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, University of Chemistry and Technology Prague, Technicka 5, 166 28, Czech Republic
| | - Jaroslav Zelenka
- Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, University of Chemistry and Technology Prague, Technicka 5, 166 28, Czech Republic
| | - Tomas Ruml
- Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, University of Chemistry and Technology Prague, Technicka 5, 166 28, Czech Republic
| | - Martin Pumera
- Center for Advanced Functional Nanorobots, Department of Inorganic Chemistry, University of Chemistry and Technology Prague, Technicka 5, 166 28, Czech Republic
- Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, VSB - Technical University of Ostrava, 17. listopadu 2172/15, Ostrava, 70800, Czech Republic
- Department of Medical Research, China Medical University Hospital, China Medical University, No. 91 Hsueh-Shih Road, Taichung, 40402, Taiwan
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Yonsei University, 50 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, 03722, Korea
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23
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Liu D, Zhang T, Guo Y, Liao Y, Wu Z, Jiang H, Lu Y. Biohybrid Magnetic Microrobots for Tumor Assassination and Active Tissue Regeneration. ACS APPLIED BIO MATERIALS 2022; 5:5933-5942. [PMID: 36384280 DOI: 10.1021/acsabm.2c00880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Magnetic microrobots have attracted increasing research interest for diverse biomedical applications, such as targeted therapy and tissue regeneration. However, multifunctional microrobots with complex morphology at the microscale are urgently needed to be fabricated, actively controlled, and functionalized. In this study, the chrysanthemum pollen-derived biohybrid magnetic microrobots (CDBMRs) with spiny protrusion, hollow cavity, and porous surface structure were proposed for tumor assassination and active tissue regeneration. By exquisitely designing the sequential treatment process, CDBMRs were fabricated and the innate morphology of pollen templates was well preserved. Under magnetic field, CDBMR exhibited various individual and collective behaviors. CDBMRs were utilized for synergetic tumor treatment by the combination of magnetically controlled physical assassination and active drug delivery. Meanwhile, CDBMRs showed excellent ability for active cell delivery and tissue regeneration, which was further proved by enhanced osteogenesis ability. By making full use of the natural morphology of pollen grains, the biohybrid microrobots presented a promising strategy for effective tumor therapeutics and tissue regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dong Liu
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Biocatalysis, Ministry of Education, Department of Chemical Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing100084, China
| | - Ting Zhang
- College of New Energy and Materials, China University of Petroleum, Beijing102249, China
| | - Yijia Guo
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Biocatalysis, Ministry of Education, Department of Chemical Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing100084, China
| | - Yuting Liao
- Department of Food Science, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi530004, China
| | - Zijian Wu
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Biocatalysis, Ministry of Education, Department of Chemical Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing100084, China
| | - Hao Jiang
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing100081, China
| | - Yuan Lu
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Biocatalysis, Ministry of Education, Department of Chemical Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing100084, China
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24
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Wang H, Song X, Xiong J, Cheang UK. Fabrication of Bilayer Magnetically Actuated L-Shaped Microrobot Based on Chitosan via Photolithography. Polymers (Basel) 2022; 14:polym14245509. [PMID: 36559876 PMCID: PMC9784805 DOI: 10.3390/polym14245509] [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: 11/04/2022] [Revised: 12/11/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Magnetically actuated microrobots showed increasing potential in various fields, especially in the biomedical area, such as invasive surgery, targeted cargo delivery, and treatment. However, it remains a challenge to incorporate biocompatible natural polymers that are favorable for practical biomedical applications. In this work, bilayer magnetic microrobots with an achiral planar design were fabricated using a biocompatible natural polymer and Fe3O4 nanoparticles through the photolithography by applying the layer-by-layer method. The microrobots consisted of a magnetic bottom layer and a photo-crosslinked chitosan top layer. The SEM results showed that the microrobot processed the L-shaped planar structure with the average width, length, and thickness of 99.18 ± 5.11 μm, 189.56 ± 11.37 μm, and 23.56 ± 4.08 μm, respectively. Moreover, microrobots actuated using a three-dimensional (3D) Helmholtz coil system was characterized and reached up to an average maximum velocity of 325.30 μm/s and a step-out frequency of 14 Hz. Furthermore, the microrobots exhibited excellent cell biocompatibility towards L929 cells in the CCK-8 assay. Therefore, the development of bi-layered chitosan-based microrobots offers a general solution for using magnetic microrobots in biomedical applications by providing an easy-to-fabricate, highly mobile microrobotic platform with the incorporation of biocompatible natural polymers for enhanced biocompatibility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haoying Wang
- Department of Mechanical and Energy Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China
- Correspondence: (H.W.); (U.K.C.)
| | - Xiaoxia Song
- Department of Mechanical and Energy Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Junfeng Xiong
- Department of Mechanical and Energy Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - U Kei Cheang
- Department of Mechanical and Energy Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Biomimetic Robotics and Intelligent Systems, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Human-Augmentation and Rehabilitation Robotics in Universities, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China
- Correspondence: (H.W.); (U.K.C.)
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25
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Wang J, Dong Y, Ma P, Wang Y, Zhang F, Cai B, Chen P, Liu BF. Intelligent Micro-/Nanorobots for Cancer Theragnostic. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2022; 34:e2201051. [PMID: 35385160 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202201051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Revised: 03/15/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Cancer is one of the most intractable diseases owing to its high mortality rate and lack of effective diagnostic and treatment tools. Advancements in micro-/nanorobot (MNR)-assisted sensing, imaging, and therapeutics offer unprecedented opportunities to develop MNR-based cancer theragnostic platforms. Unlike ordinary nanoparticles, which exhibit Brownian motion in biofluids, MNRs overcome viscous resistance in an ultralow Reynolds number (Re << 1) environment by effective self-propulsion. This unique locomotion property has motivated the advanced design and functionalization of MNRs as a basis for next-generation cancer-therapy platforms, which offer the potential for precise distribution and improved permeation of therapeutic agents. Enhanced barrier penetration, imaging-guided operation, and biosensing are additionally studied to enable the promising cancer-related applications of MNRs. Herein, the recent advances in MNR-based cancer therapy are comprehensively addresses, including actuation engines, diagnostics, medical imaging, and targeted drug delivery; promising research opportunities that can have a profound impact on cancer therapy over the next decade is highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Wang
- The Key Laboratory for Biomedical Photonics of MOE at Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics - Hubei Bioinformatics and Molecular Imaging Key Laboratory, Systems Biology Theme, Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430074, P. R. China
| | - Yue Dong
- The Key Laboratory for Biomedical Photonics of MOE at Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics - Hubei Bioinformatics and Molecular Imaging Key Laboratory, Systems Biology Theme, Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430074, P. R. China
| | - Peng Ma
- The Key Laboratory for Biomedical Photonics of MOE at Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics - Hubei Bioinformatics and Molecular Imaging Key Laboratory, Systems Biology Theme, Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430074, P. R. China
| | - Yu Wang
- The Key Laboratory for Biomedical Photonics of MOE at Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics - Hubei Bioinformatics and Molecular Imaging Key Laboratory, Systems Biology Theme, Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430074, P. R. China
| | - Fangyu Zhang
- Department of Nano Engineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Bocheng Cai
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA
| | - Peng Chen
- The Key Laboratory for Biomedical Photonics of MOE at Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics - Hubei Bioinformatics and Molecular Imaging Key Laboratory, Systems Biology Theme, Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430074, P. R. China
| | - Bi-Feng Liu
- The Key Laboratory for Biomedical Photonics of MOE at Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics - Hubei Bioinformatics and Molecular Imaging Key Laboratory, Systems Biology Theme, Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430074, P. R. China
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26
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Tang Y, Li M, Wang T, Dong X, Hu W, Sitti M. Wireless Miniature Magnetic Phase-Change Soft Actuators. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2022; 34:e2204185. [PMID: 35975467 PMCID: PMC7613683 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202204185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2022] [Revised: 08/09/2022] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Wireless miniature soft actuators are promising for various potential high-impact applications in medical, robotic grippers, and artificial muscles. However, these miniature soft actuators are currently constrained by a small output force and low work capacity. To address such challenges, a miniature magnetic phase-change soft composite actuator is reported. This soft actuator exhibits an expanding deformation and enables up to a 70 N output force and 175.2 J g-1 work capacity under remote magnetic radio frequency heating, which are 106 -107 times that of traditional magnetic soft actuators. To demonstrate its capabilities, a wireless soft robotic device is first designed that can withstand 0.24 m s-1 fluid flows in an artery phantom. By integrating it with a thermally-responsive shape-memory polymer and bistable metamaterial sleeve, a wireless reversible bistable stent is designed toward future potential angioplasty applications. Moreover, it can additionally locomote inside and jump out of granular media. At last, the phase-change actuator can realize programmable bending deformations when a specifically designed magnetization profile is encoded, enhancing its shape-programming capability. Such a miniature soft actuator provides an approach to enhance the mechanical output and versatility of magnetic soft robots and devices, extending their medical and other potential applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yichao Tang
- School of Mechanical Engineering Tongji University Shanghai 201804, China; Physical Intelligence Department Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems 70569, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Mingtong Li
- Physical Intelligence Department Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems 70569, Stuttgart, Germany; Institute of Functional Nano & Soft Materials (FUNSOM) Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Carbon-Based Functional Materials & Devices Soochow University Suzhou, Jiangsu 215123, China
| | - Tianlu Wang
- Physical Intelligence Department Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems 70569, Stuttgart, Germany; Institute for Biomedical Engineering ETH Zurich Zurich 8092, Switzerland
| | - Xiaoguang Dong
- Physical Intelligence Department Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems 70569, Stuttgart, Germany; of Mechanical Engineering Vanderbilt University Nashville, TN 37215, USA; Vanderbilt Institute for Surgery and Engineering Vanderbilt University Nashville, TN 37215, USA
| | - Wenqi Hu
- 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; Institute for Biomedical Engineering ETH Zurich Zurich 8092, Switzerland; School of Medicine and College of Engineering Koç University Istanbul 34450, Turkey
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27
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Dai B, Zhou Y, Xiao X, Chen Y, Guo J, Gao C, Xie Y, Chen J. Fluid Field Modulation in Mass Transfer for Efficient Photocatalysis. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2022; 9:e2203057. [PMID: 35957518 PMCID: PMC9534979 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202203057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2022] [Revised: 07/15/2022] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
Mass transfer is an essential factor determining photocatalytic performance, which can be modulated by fluid field via manipulating the kinetic characteristics of photocatalysts and photocatalytic intermediates. Past decades have witnessed the efforts and achievements made in manipulating mass transfer based on photocatalyst structure and composition design, and thus, a critical survey that scrutinizes the recent progress in this topic is urgently necessitated. This review examines the basic principles of how mass transfer behavior impacts photocatalytic activity accompanying with the discussion on theoretical simulation calculation including fluid flow speed and pattern. Meanwhile, newly emerged viable photocatalytic micro/nanomotors with self-thermophoresis, self-diffusiophoresis, and bubble-propulsion mechanisms as well as magnet-actuated photocatalytic artificial cilia for facilitating mass transfer will be covered. Furthermore, their applications in photocatalytic hydrogen evolution, carbon dioxide reduction, organic pollution degradation, bacteria disinfection and so forth are scrutinized. Finally, a brief summary and future outlook are presented, providing a viable guideline to those working in photocatalysis, mass transfer, and other related fields.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baoying Dai
- State Key Laboratory of Organic Electronics and Information Displays & Institute of Advanced Materials (IAM)Jiangsu Key Laboratory for BiosensorsJiangsu National Synergetic Innovation Center for Advanced Materials (SICAM)Nanjing University of Posts and TelecommunicationsNanjing210023China
| | - Yihao Zhou
- Department of BioengineeringUniversity of California, Los AngelesLos AngelesCA90095USA
| | - Xiao Xiao
- Department of BioengineeringUniversity of California, Los AngelesLos AngelesCA90095USA
| | - Yukai Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Materials‐Oriented Chemical EngineeringCollege of Materials Science and EngineeringNanjing Tech UniversityNanjing210009China
| | - Jiahao Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Organic Electronics and Information Displays & Institute of Advanced Materials (IAM)Jiangsu Key Laboratory for BiosensorsJiangsu National Synergetic Innovation Center for Advanced Materials (SICAM)Nanjing University of Posts and TelecommunicationsNanjing210023China
| | - Chenchen Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Organic Electronics and Information Displays & Institute of Advanced Materials (IAM)Jiangsu Key Laboratory for BiosensorsJiangsu National Synergetic Innovation Center for Advanced Materials (SICAM)Nanjing University of Posts and TelecommunicationsNanjing210023China
| | - Yannan Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Organic Electronics and Information Displays & Institute of Advanced Materials (IAM)Jiangsu Key Laboratory for BiosensorsJiangsu National Synergetic Innovation Center for Advanced Materials (SICAM)Nanjing University of Posts and TelecommunicationsNanjing210023China
| | - Jun Chen
- Department of BioengineeringUniversity of California, Los AngelesLos AngelesCA90095USA
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28
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Wang L, Chen L, Zheng X, Yu Z, Lv W, Sheng M, Wang L, Nie P, Li H, Guan D, Cui H. Multimodal Bubble Microrobot Near an Air-Water Interface. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2022; 18:e2203872. [PMID: 36045100 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202203872] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2022] [Revised: 08/09/2022] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
The development of multifunctional and robust swimming microrobots working at the free air-liquid interface has encountered challenge as new manipulation strategies are needed to overcome the complicated interfacial restrictions. Here, flexible but reliable mechanisms are shown that achieve a remote-control bubble microrobot with multiple working modes and high maneuverability by the assistance of a soft air-liquid interface. This bubble microrobot is developed from a hollow Janus microsphere (JM) regulated by a magnetic field, which can implement switchable working modes like pusher, gripper, anchor, and sweeper. The collapse of the microbubble and the accompanying directional jet flow play a key role for functioning in these working modes, which is analogous to a "bubble tentacle." Using a simple gamepad, the orientation and the navigation of the bubble microrobot can be easily manipulated. In particular, a speed modulation method is found for the bubble microrobot, which uses vertical magnetic field to control the orientation of the JM and the direction of the bubble-induced jet flow without changing the fuel concentration. The findings demonstrate a substantial advance of the bubble microrobot specifically working at the air-liquid interface and depict some nonintuitive mechanisms that can help develop more complicated microswimmers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leilei Wang
- School of Environmental and Municipal Engineering, Xi'an University of Architecture and Technology, Xi'an, 710055, China
- State Key Laboratory of Nonlinear Mechanics, Beijing Key Laboratory of Engineered Construction and Mechanobiology, Institute of Mechanics, Chinese Academy of Science, Beijing, 100190, China
| | - Li Chen
- 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 Science, Beijing, 100190, China
| | - Zexiong Yu
- School of Environmental and Municipal Engineering, Xi'an University of Architecture and Technology, Xi'an, 710055, China
| | - Wenchao Lv
- School of Building Services Science and Engineering, Xi'an University of Architecture and Technology, Xi'an, 710055, China
| | - Minjia Sheng
- School of Building Services Science and Engineering, Xi'an University of Architecture and Technology, Xi'an, 710055, China
| | - Lina Wang
- School of Building Services Science and Engineering, Xi'an University of Architecture and Technology, Xi'an, 710055, China
| | - Pengcheng Nie
- State Key Laboratory of Nonlinear Mechanics, Beijing Key Laboratory of Engineered Construction and Mechanobiology, Institute of Mechanics, Chinese Academy of Science, Beijing, 100190, China
- School of Engineering Science, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Hangyu Li
- State Key Laboratory of Nonlinear Mechanics, Beijing Key Laboratory of Engineered Construction and Mechanobiology, Institute of Mechanics, Chinese Academy of Science, Beijing, 100190, China
- School of Engineering Science, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Dongshi Guan
- State Key Laboratory of Nonlinear Mechanics, Beijing Key Laboratory of Engineered Construction and Mechanobiology, Institute of Mechanics, Chinese Academy of Science, Beijing, 100190, China
- School of Engineering Science, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Haihang Cui
- School of Building Services Science and Engineering, Xi'an University of Architecture and Technology, Xi'an, 710055, China
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29
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Pane S, Zhang M, Iacovacci V, Zhang L, Menciassi A. Contrast-enhanced ultrasound tracking of helical propellers with acoustic phase analysis and comparison with color Doppler. APL Bioeng 2022; 6:036102. [PMID: 35935094 PMCID: PMC9348897 DOI: 10.1063/5.0097145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2022] [Accepted: 07/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Medical microrobots (MRs) hold the potential to radically transform several interventional procedures. However, to guarantee therapy success when operating in hard-to-reach body districts, a precise and robust imaging strategy is required for monitoring and controlling MRs in real-time. Ultrasound (US) may represent a powerful technology, but MRs' visibility with US needs to be improved, especially when targeting echogenic tissues. In this context, motions of MRs have been exploited to enhance their contrast, e.g., by Doppler imaging. To exploit a more selective contrast-enhancement mechanism, in this study, we analyze in detail the characteristic motions of one of the most widely adopted MR concepts, i.e., the helical propeller, with a particular focus on its interactions with the backscattered US waves. We combine a kinematic analysis of the propeller 3D motion with an US acoustic phase analysis (APA) performed on the raw radio frequency US data in order to improve imaging and tracking in bio-mimicking environments. We validated our US-APA approach in diverse scenarios, aimed at simulating realistic in vivo conditions, and compared the results to those obtained with standard US Doppler. Overall, our technique provided a precise and stable feedback to visualize and track helical propellers in echogenic tissues (chicken breast), tissue-mimicking phantoms with bifurcated lumina, and in the presence of different motion disturbances (e.g., physiological flows and tissue motions), where standard Doppler showed poor performance. Furthermore, the proposed US-APA technique allowed for real-time estimation of MR velocity, where standard Doppler failed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - M Zhang
- Department of Mechanical and Automation Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | | | - L Zhang
- Department of Mechanical and Automation Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
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30
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Biocompatible micromotors for biosensing. Anal Bioanal Chem 2022; 414:7035-7049. [PMID: 36044082 PMCID: PMC9428376 DOI: 10.1007/s00216-022-04287-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2022] [Revised: 07/15/2022] [Accepted: 08/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
Micro/nanomotors are nanoscale devices that have been explored in various fields, such as drug delivery, environmental remediation, or biosensing and diagnosis. The use of micro/nanomotors has grown considerably over the past few years, partially because of the advantages that they offer in the development of new conceptual avenues in biosensing. This is due to their propulsion and intermixing in solution compared with their respective static forms, which enables motion-based detection methods and/or decreases bioassay time. This review focuses on the impacts of micro/nanomotors on biosensing research in the last 2 years. An overview of designs for bioreceptor attachment to micro/nanomotors is given. Recent developments have focused on chemically propelled micromotors using external fuels, commonly hydrogen peroxide. However, the associated fuel toxicity and inconvenience of use in relevant biological samples such as blood have prompted researchers to explore new micro/nanomotor biosensing approaches based on biocompatible propulsion sources such as magnetic or ultrasound fields. The main advances in biocompatible propulsion sources for micro/nanomotors as novel biosensing platforms are discussed and grouped by their propulsion-driven forces. The relevant analytical applications are discussed and representatively illustrated. Moreover, envisioning future biosensing applications, the principal advantages of micro/nanomotor synthesis using biocompatible and biodegradable materials are given. The review concludes with a realistic drawing on the present and future perspectives.
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31
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Heckel S, Bilsing C, Wittmann M, Gemming T, Büttner L, Czarske J, Simmchen J. Beyond Janus Geometry: Characterization of Flow Fields around Nonspherical Photocatalytic Microswimmers. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2022; 9:e2105009. [PMID: 35839469 PMCID: PMC9403636 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202105009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2021] [Revised: 05/04/2022] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
Catalytic microswimmers that move by a phoretic mechanism in response to a self-induced chemical gradient are often obtained by the design of spherical janus microparticles, which suffer from multi-step fabrication and low yields. Approaches that circumvent laborious multi-step fabrication include the exploitation of the possibility of nonuniform catalytic activity along the surface of irregular particle shapes, local excitation or intrinsic asymmetry. Unfortunately, the effects on the generation of motion remain poorly understood. In this work, single crystalline BiVO4 microswimmers are presented that rely on a strict inherent asymmetry of charge-carrier distribution under illumination. The origin of the asymmetrical flow pattern is elucidated because of the high spatial resolution of measured flow fields around pinned BiVO4 colloids. As a result the flow from oxidative to reductive particle sides is confirmed. Distribution of oxidation and reduction reactions suggests a dominant self-electrophoretic motion mechanism with a source quadrupole as the origin of the induced flows. It is shown that the symmetry of the flow fields is broken by self-shadowing of the particles and synthetic surface defects that impact the photocatalytic activity of the microswimmers. The results demonstrate the complexity of symmetry breaking in nonspherical microswimmers and emphasize the role of self-shadowing for photocatalytic microswimmers. The findings are leading the way toward understanding of propulsion mechanisms of phoretic colloids of various shapes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Heckel
- TU DresdenChair of Physical ChemistryZellescher Weg 1901069DresdenGermany
| | - Clemens Bilsing
- TU DresdenLaboratory for Measurement and Sensor System TechniqueHelmholtzstraße 1801069DresdenGermany
| | - Martin Wittmann
- TU DresdenChair of Physical ChemistryZellescher Weg 1901069DresdenGermany
| | - Thomas Gemming
- Leibniz Institute for Solid State and Materials Research DresdenHelmholtzstraße 2001069DresdenGermany
| | - Lars Büttner
- TU DresdenLaboratory for Measurement and Sensor System TechniqueHelmholtzstraße 1801069DresdenGermany
- Competence Center Biomedical Computational Laser Systms (BIOLAS)Helmholtzstraße 1801069DresdenGermany
| | - Jürgen Czarske
- TU DresdenLaboratory for Measurement and Sensor System TechniqueHelmholtzstraße 1801069DresdenGermany
- Competence Center Biomedical Computational Laser Systms (BIOLAS)Helmholtzstraße 1801069DresdenGermany
| | - Juliane Simmchen
- TU DresdenChair of Physical ChemistryZellescher Weg 1901069DresdenGermany
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Magnetically Propelled Chained Nanocomposites for On-Demand Biologically Relevant Media Exploration. J Colloid Interface Sci 2022; 629:287-296. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jcis.2022.08.154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2022] [Revised: 08/10/2022] [Accepted: 08/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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Wang ZH, Chu M, Yin N, Huang W, Liu W, Zhang Z, Liu J, Shi J. Biological chemotaxis-guided self-thermophoretic nanoplatform augments colorectal cancer therapy through autonomous mucus penetration. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2022; 8:eabn3917. [PMID: 35767627 PMCID: PMC9242589 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.abn3917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2021] [Accepted: 05/10/2022] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Oral drug delivery systems have great potential to treat colorectal cancer (CRC). However, the drug delivery efficiency is restricted by limited CRC-related intestine positioning and dense mucus barrier. Here, we present a biological chemotaxis-guided self-thermophoretic nanoplatform that facilitates precise intestinal positioning and autonomous mucus penetration. The nanoplatform introduces asymmetric platinum-sprayed mesoporous silica to achieve autonomous movement in intestinal mucus. Furthermore, inspired by the intense interaction between pathogenic microbes and CRC, the nanoplatform is camouflaged by Staphylococcus aureus membrane to precisely anchor in CRC-related intestine. Owing to 4.3-fold higher biological chemotactic anchoring of CRC-related intestine and 14.6-fold higher autonomous mucus penetration performance, the nanoplatform vastly improves the oral bioavailability of cisplatin, leading to a tumor inhibition rate of 99.1% on orthotopic CRC-bearing mice. Together, the exquisitely designed nanoplatform to overcome multiple physiological barriers provides a new horizon for the development of oral drug delivery systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhi-Hao Wang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
- Henan Key Laboratory of Targeting Therapy and Diagnosis for Critical Diseases, Zhengzhou 450001, China
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Preparation Technologies, Ministry of Education, Zhengzhou 450001, China
- State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention and Treatment, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Mengyu Chu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
- Henan Key Laboratory of Targeting Therapy and Diagnosis for Critical Diseases, Zhengzhou 450001, China
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Preparation Technologies, Ministry of Education, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Na Yin
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
- Henan Key Laboratory of Targeting Therapy and Diagnosis for Critical Diseases, Zhengzhou 450001, China
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Preparation Technologies, Ministry of Education, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Wanting Huang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
- Henan Key Laboratory of Targeting Therapy and Diagnosis for Critical Diseases, Zhengzhou 450001, China
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Preparation Technologies, Ministry of Education, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Wei Liu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
- Henan Key Laboratory of Targeting Therapy and Diagnosis for Critical Diseases, Zhengzhou 450001, China
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Preparation Technologies, Ministry of Education, Zhengzhou 450001, China
- State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention and Treatment, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Zhenzhong Zhang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
- Henan Key Laboratory of Targeting Therapy and Diagnosis for Critical Diseases, Zhengzhou 450001, China
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Preparation Technologies, Ministry of Education, Zhengzhou 450001, China
- State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention and Treatment, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Junjie Liu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
- Henan Key Laboratory of Targeting Therapy and Diagnosis for Critical Diseases, Zhengzhou 450001, China
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Preparation Technologies, Ministry of Education, Zhengzhou 450001, China
- State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention and Treatment, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Jinjin Shi
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
- Henan Key Laboratory of Targeting Therapy and Diagnosis for Critical Diseases, Zhengzhou 450001, China
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Preparation Technologies, Ministry of Education, Zhengzhou 450001, China
- State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention and Treatment, Zhengzhou 450001, China
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Wrede P, Degtyaruk O, Kalva SK, Deán-Ben XL, Bozuyuk U, Aghakhani A, Akolpoglu B, Sitti M, Razansky D. Real-time 3D optoacoustic tracking of cell-sized magnetic microrobots circulating in the mouse brain vasculature. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2022; 8:eabm9132. [PMID: 35544570 PMCID: PMC9094653 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.abm9132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2021] [Accepted: 03/25/2022] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
Mobile microrobots hold remarkable potential to revolutionize health care by enabling unprecedented active medical interventions and theranostics, such as active cargo delivery and microsurgical manipulations in hard-to-reach body sites. High-resolution imaging and control of cell-sized microrobots in the in vivo vascular system remains an unsolved challenge toward their clinical use. To overcome this limitation, we propose noninvasive real-time detection and tracking of circulating microrobots using optoacoustic imaging. We devised cell-sized nickel-based spherical Janus magnetic microrobots whose near-infrared optoacoustic signature is enhanced via gold conjugation. The 5-, 10-, and 20-μm-diameter microrobots are detected volumetrically both in bloodless ex vivo tissues and under real-life conditions with a strongly light-absorbing blood background. We further demonstrate real-time three-dimensional tracking and magnetic manipulation of the microrobots circulating in murine cerebral vasculature, thus paving the way toward effective and safe operation of cell-sized microrobots in challenging and clinically relevant intravascular environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul Wrede
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology and Institute for Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Medicine, University of Zurich, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland
- Institute for Biomedical Engineering, Department of Information Technology and Electrical Engineering, ETH Zurich, 8093 Zurich, Switzerland
- Physical Intelligence Department, Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems, 70569 Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Oleksiy Degtyaruk
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology and Institute for Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Medicine, University of Zurich, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland
- Institute for Biomedical Engineering, Department of Information Technology and Electrical Engineering, ETH Zurich, 8093 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Sandeep Kumar Kalva
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology and Institute for Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Medicine, University of Zurich, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland
- Institute for Biomedical Engineering, Department of Information Technology and Electrical Engineering, ETH Zurich, 8093 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Xosé Luis Deán-Ben
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology and Institute for Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Medicine, University of Zurich, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland
- Institute for Biomedical Engineering, Department of Information Technology and Electrical Engineering, ETH Zurich, 8093 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Ugur Bozuyuk
- Physical Intelligence Department, Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems, 70569 Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Amirreza Aghakhani
- Physical Intelligence Department, Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems, 70569 Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Birgul Akolpoglu
- Physical Intelligence Department, Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems, 70569 Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Metin Sitti
- Institute for Biomedical Engineering, Department of Information Technology and Electrical Engineering, ETH Zurich, 8093 Zurich, Switzerland
- Physical Intelligence Department, Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems, 70569 Stuttgart, Germany
- School of Medicine and College of Engineering, Koç University, Istanbul 34450, Turkey
| | - Daniel Razansky
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology and Institute for Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Medicine, University of Zurich, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland
- Institute for Biomedical Engineering, Department of Information Technology and Electrical Engineering, ETH Zurich, 8093 Zurich, Switzerland
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Abstract
Microrobots have been developed and extensively employed for performing the variety tasks with various applications. However, the intricate fabrication and actuation processes employed for microrobots further restrict their multitudinous applicability as well as the controllability in high accuracy. As an alternative, in this work an aquatic microrobot was developed using a distinctive concept of the building block technique where the microrobot was built based on the block to block design. An in-house electromagnetic system as well as the control algorithm were developed to achieve the precise real-time dynamics of the microrobot for extensive applications. In addition, pivotal control parameters of the microrobot including the actuating waveforms together with the operational parameters were verified and discussed in conjunction with the magnetic intensity simulation. A mixing task was performed with high efficiency based on the trajectory planning and rotation control of the microrobot to demonstrate its capability in flow manipulation which can be advantageous for microreactor applications down the load. Aside from it, a dissolution test was further conducted to provide an on-demand flow agitation function of the microrobot for the next level of lab chip applications. The presented work with detail dynamic analysis is envisaged to provide a new look of microrobot control and functions from the engineering perspective with profoundly potential applications.
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