科技瞭望丨“手到擒来”的微观“快递员”

Core Insights - The article discusses the development of a 3D micro-nano robot by the Chinese Academy of Sciences, which is capable of precise tasks such as grabbing, transporting, and releasing particles and cells in the microscopic world, paving the way for future advancements in precision medicine [1][5] Group 1: Micro-Nano Robots Overview - Micro-nano robots are defined as "intelligent micro-machines" that operate at the micro to nano scale, capable of movement, rotation, and manipulation of tiny particles or cells, thus enabling human interaction in the microscopic realm [2] - The current limitations of micro-nano robots include reliance on single material systems and challenges in multi-stimulus coordinated control in complex environments [2][3] Group 2: Design and Functionality - The new design approach involves multi-material and multi-module processing to create micro-nano robots, with a hand-like structure that allows for better observation and flexibility in operation [3] - The 3D hand-shaped micro-nano robot consists of two smart materials: a pH-responsive module that opens and closes in response to environmental changes, and a magnetic drive module that allows for remote control of movement [3][4] Group 3: Performance and Applications - The robot has demonstrated successful capabilities in grabbing and transporting particles, including 10-micron polystyrene microspheres and human kidney cancer cells, with a maximum movement speed of 65.56 microns per second [4] - The micro-nano robot shows potential for various applications, including drug delivery within the human body, serving as an "invisible assistant" for doctors, and offering possibilities for single-cell manipulation and targeted drug delivery [5] - Beyond medical applications, micro-nano robots can be utilized in environmental remediation and micro-manufacturing, such as removing specific pollutants from water environments and assembling micro-nano components [5]