Active Propelled Micro Robots in Drug Delivery for Urologic Diseases

TL;DR

This paper reviews how micro robots can be used to deliver drugs more effectively in treating urologic diseases by navigating the urinary tract.

Contribution

The paper provides a comprehensive analysis of propulsion mechanisms and applications of micro robots tailored for urology.

Findings

Micro robots can overcome limitations of traditional drug delivery in urology by enabling targeted delivery.

Propulsion mechanisms like urea-fueled nanomotors and magnetic swarms are optimized for the urinary environment.

Emerging applications include bioresorbable robots for tumor ablation and magnetic grippers for biopsies.

Abstract

Active propelled micro robots (MRs) represent a transformative shift in biomedical engineering, engineered to navigate physiological environments by converting chemical, acoustic, or magnetic energy into mechanical propulsion. Unlike passive delivery systems limited by diffusion and systemic clearance, MRs offer autonomous mobility, enabling precise penetration and retention in hard-to-reach tissues. This review provides comprehensive analysis of MR technologies within urology, a field uniquely suited for microrobotic intervention due to the urinary tract’s anatomical accessibility and fluid-filled nature. We explore how MRs address critical therapeutic limitations, including the high recurrence of kidney stones and the rapid washout of intravesical bladder cancer therapies. The review categorizes propulsion mechanisms optimized for the urinary environment, such as urea-fueled nanomotors and magnetic swarms. Furthermore, we detail emerging applications, including bioresorbable acoustic robots for tumor ablation and magnetic grippers for minimally invasive biopsies. Finally, we critically assess the path toward clinical translation, focusing on challenges in biocompatibility, real-time tracking (MRI, MPI, photoacoustic imaging), and the regulatory landscape for these advanced combination products.

Figures