Magnetically controlled reversible shape-morphing microrobots with real-time X-ray imaging for stomach cancer applications

Stomach cancer is a global health concern as millions of cases are reported each year. In the present study, we developed a pH-responsive microrobot with good biocompatibility, magnetic-field controlled movements, and the ability to be visualized via X-ray imaging. The microrobot consisted of composite resin and a pH-responsive layer. This microrobot was found to fold itself in high pH environments and unfold itself in low pH environments. In addition, the neodymium (NdFeB) magnetic nanoparticles present inside the composite resin provided the microrobot with an ability to be controlled by a magnetic field through an electromagnetic actuation system, and the monomeric triiodobenzoate-based particles were found to act as contrast agents for real-time X-ray imaging. The doxorubicin coating on the microrobot's surface resulted in a high cancer-cell killing effect. Finally, we demonstrated the proposed microrobot under an ex vivo environment using a pig's stomach. Thus, this approach can be a potential alternative to targeted drug carriers, especially for stomach cancer applications.