Biomembrane‐Functionalized Micromotors: Biocompatible Active Devices for Diverse Biomedical Applications

Abstract

There has been considerable interest in developing synthetic micromotors with biofunctional, versatile, and adaptive capabilities for biomedical applications. In this perspective, cell membrane‐functionalized micromotors emerge as an attractive platform. This new class of micromotors demonstrates enhanced propulsion and compelling performance in complex biological environments, making them suitable for various in vivo applications, including drug delivery, detoxification, immune modulation, and phototherapy. This article reviews various proof‐of‐concept studies based on different micromotor designs and cell membrane coatings in these areas. The review focuses on the motor structure and performance relationship and highlights how cell membrane functionalization overcomes the obstacles faced by traditional synthetic micromotors while imparting them with unique capabilities. Overall, the cell membrane‐functionalized micromotors are expected to advance micromotor research and facilitate its translation towards practical uses.

Document Details

Document Type
Pub Defense Publication
Publication Date
Dec 18, 2021
Source ID
10.1002/adma.202107177

Entities

People

  • Fangyu Zhang
  • Joseph Wang
  • Liangfang Zhang
  • Nelly Askarinam
  • Rodolfo Mundaca‐uribe
  • Weiwei Gao
  • Zhengxing Li

Organizations

  • Defense Threat Reduction Agency
  • National Science Foundation
  • University of California, San Diego

Tags

Readers

  • Nanocomposite Materials Science
  • Oncology
  • Systems Analysis and Design

Technology Areas

  • Biotechnology
  • Biotechnology - Cancer Biotech