Scientists have unveiled a groundbreaking medical technology: microscopic robots capable of swimming through blood vessels, delivering drugs directly to targeted sites, and then safely dissolving inside the body. The innovation, developed by researchers at ETH Zurich and published in Science this month, could transform treatments for strokes, brain tumors, and other hard-to-reach conditions Nature Anadolu Agency SWI swissinfo.ch.
Precision Medicine in Motion
The microrobots are smaller than a grain of sand and consist of gelatin capsules packed with drugs and iron-oxide nanoparticles. These nanoparticles allow doctors to steer the robots using external magnetic fields. Once the robots reach their destination, they release their therapeutic payload before breaking down harmlessly in the bloodstream Anadolu Agency SWI swissinfo.ch.
In trials on pigs and sheep, whose blood vessels closely resemble those of humans, the robots successfully navigated complex vascular pathways. They swam against blood flow, clung to vessel walls, and reached speeds of nearly half a meter per second. Researchers used real-time X-ray imaging and clinical magnetic navigation systems to guide them precisely Anadolu Agency.
Why It Matters
Traditional drug delivery often requires high systemic doses, which can cause toxic side effects. These microrobots promise localized treatment, reducing risks while maximizing effectiveness. For example, in stroke therapy, clot-dissolving drugs could be delivered directly to the blockage, minimizing the chance of dangerous internal bleeding Phys.org Popular Science Impact Lab.
The technology also holds potential for oncology, where targeted delivery could improve treatment of brain tumors and other cancers that are difficult to reach with conventional methods.
Next Steps
While the system has not yet been tested in humans, researchers emphasize that all components are biocompatible and scalable. Clinical trials may follow, given the success in large animal models. Experts believe this innovation could usher in a new era of “submarine medicine”, where tiny robots act as precision couriers inside the human body Impact Lab.
Conclusion:
The development of dissolvable microrobots marks a milestone in precision medicine, offering hope for safer, more effective treatments of life-threatening conditions. If human trials confirm their promise, these tiny machines could redefine how doctors deliver drugs, turning science fiction into clinical reality.
