Self-propelled microrobots using bio-based organisms

Self-Propelled Microrobots Using Bio-Based Organisms

This technology is a hybrid microrobot system that combines the chemotaxis of therapeutic cells (bacteria/immune cells) with the magnetic propulsion of magnetic nanoparticles. It prevents internal accumulation by inducing a dissociation temperature (Td) through external heat sources (near-infrared/alternating magnetic fields) to separate the cells from the nanoparticles.

Existing microrobots face limitations in precise targeting during magnetic propulsion, and the magnetic nanoparticles injected into the body can remain, causing cytotoxicity and side effects. Furthermore, bacteria-based robots often suffer from low lesion-reaching rates due to blood flow resistance.

This technology uses ligand-receptor binding (such as biotin-avidin) to attach magnetic nanoparticles to therapeutic cells. After transporting them to the lesion via an external magnetic field, the system applies localized heat to break the bond, allowing the separated magnetic nanoparticles to be retrieved using an external magnetic field, thereby resolving the retention issue. Applicable to industrial robots and automated systems, it enables selective drug release through cell sorting for therapy, improving treatment efficiency and minimizing side effects.

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Key Features:

• Microrobot comprising ligand-introduced therapeutic cells and receptor-introduced magnetic nanoparticles
• Magnetic nanoparticles are attached to the surface of therapeutic cells via ligand-receptor binding
• Therapeutic cells include attenuated genetically modified bacteria or immune cells
• Structure that dissociates at temperatures above body temperature due to heat generated by magnetic nanoparticles when an external magnetic field is applied

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This invention was developed with support from the Ministry of Science and ICT for brain mapping-based robot rehabilitation.