Scientists develop tiny robots that can swim through your blood to fight strokes - SWI swissinfo.ch

Researchers at the federal technology institute ETH Zurich have created a microrobot designed to combat diseases inside the body. These tiny robots, measuring less than two millimeters in width, can be controlled through blood vessels to deliver essential medication. Tested successfully on pigs and sheep, the robots consist of a spherical gel capsule containing drugs and are equipped with iron oxide nanoparticles enabling magnetic control. When guided to the target area, the capsule is heated using a high-frequency magnetic field, causing the gel to dissolve and release the medication precisely where needed. This advancement aims to minimize side effects associated with traditional drug delivery methods by directing high doses only to specific locations, addressing a significant challenge in current medical treatment strategies for conditions like strokes and tumors. Although human trials are yet to be conducted, this innovative approach shines a light on the potential of microrobotics in future therapeutic applications.