For many years, scientists have been working on the creation of miniature robots that can work inside the human body. And until recently, such robots were considered only as mechanisms for diagnostics, targeted treatment, or harassment of drug delivery. But, according to Science Robotics, a group of researchers from China managed to create a controlled microbot that can move living cells inside the body.
The main problem that faced the scientists was that it is extremely difficult to create such a robot carrier that could both hold cells and support their vital activity and growth. A group of scientists led by Dong Sun of Hong Kong City University manufactured their robot using 3D laser lithography. At the same time, the photosensitive polymer used in the design solidifies in specified places under the action of a focused laser beam, which makes it possible to control the shape of the future robot.
A magnetic field is used to control the bot. The polymeric frame of the bot is created with a 100-nanometer layer of nickel, which makes it "sensitive" to the action of a magnetic field. In addition, the robot is coated with a 20 nanometer thick titanium layer for improved biocompatibility with cells and the body, and test samples of the bots range in size from 70 to 90 micrometers.
At the first stage of the research, the experts used fibroblasts and mesenchymal cells of a living zebrafish embryo, moving them. After successful tests on the embryo, the scientists embarked on the next phase: experiments in the living organism of a laboratory rat.
The surface of the microbot was covered with cancer cells with fluorescent properties. During transportation, all cells remained viable. During the experiment, it turned out that the cells freely detached from the bot after delivery to the desired organ. And then the cells themselves began to divide and receive nutrition.
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Vladimir Kuznetsov