Biological robots could 'revolutionize' the fight against cancer

German scientists have created microscopic robots, controlled by magnets, that help surround tumors and release large amounts of chemotherapy drugs to treat cancer. This microscopic drug delivery 'machine' does not affect healthy tissues and is considered a major breakthrough in oncology.

Simulation image of microrobots surrounding the tumor.

For decades, scientists have used magnetic fields to navigate medical devices used in the human body, including cardiac catheters and endoscopic cameras. Meanwhile, E. coli bacteria is likened to the 'superhero' of the microbial world thanks to its ability to swim quickly and flexibly, able to pass through liquids or highly viscous tissues. They also have very good environmental sensitivity.

To take advantage of these advantages, the team at the Max Planck Institute harnessed the power of intestinal E. coli bacteria (not the pathogenic strain) and equipped them with artificial ingredients, including particles. magnetic and spherical drug carriers called liposomes . These bacteria-based microrobots are intended for injection into cancer patients. 'With a magnet, we were able to precisely direct them toward the tumor. Once a sufficient number of microrobots surround the tumor, we shine a laser into the tissue to trigger drug release. At this point, not only the immune system is awakened, but additional drugs also help to destroy the tumor ,' explains lead researcher Birgul Akolpoglu.

In tests, the scientists successfully navigated microrobots through various stages to shrink tumors in the laboratory. They claim bacteria-based medical microrobots could one day fight cancer more effectively. This is a new therapy but not too far from the current cancer treatment.

 'Such local tumor destruction will be less invasive for the patient, with less pain and side effects, while the drug can work where it is needed and not affect the whole. body' - study co-author, Dr. Yunus Alapan, evaluates the advantage of biological microrobots over current cancer therapy.