SubsidieMeestersVibrational Micro-robots in Viscoelastic Biological Tissues
The project aims to develop vibrational micro-robots (VIBEBOTS) for efficient propulsion and sensing in viscoelastic biological tissues, enhancing targeted drug delivery and minimally-invasive procedures.
Projectdetails
Introduction
Wireless micro-robots hold great potential for minimally-invasive medicine, since they may allow for targeted drug delivery, in vivo sensing, stimulation, and even new surgical procedures. However, the biggest hurdle for biomedical applications is the penetration of real biological media, for instance, mucus, vitreous, blood clots, and tumour tissues.
Challenges in Propulsion
Most current micro-/nano-robots can propel in water; however, the same propulsion mechanisms do not readily transfer to viscoelastic biological media. One major bottleneck is that it is not possible to exert enough force for propulsion in a system that could one day also accommodate a human.
Project Goals
The overall goal of this proposal is to develop vibrational microdevices that can actively propel and wirelessly sense in viscoelastic biological tissues. The excited mechanical vibration is coupled with the frequency-dependent fluidic rheology to:
- Increase the energy release rate
- Reduce the penetration force needed for tissue rupture
- Facilitate an easier penetration of the tissues
Research Focus
We will investigate the fundamental mechanisms of propulsion at low Reynolds number in viscoelastic materials. The microrheology of the biological fluids will be measured and modelled, allowing us to:
- Optimize the shape and gait of the micro-robot
- Exploit the complex rheological properties of biological tissues
- Generate propulsion
Technological Advancements
The proposed work will also advance three-dimensional fabrication technologies for asymmetric micro-/nanostructures as key elements to interact with tissues to facilitate efficient locomotion.
Sensing Development
We will also develop novel sensing methods for in vivo sensing and localization of the microdevices.
Conclusion
Our research will lead to a new class of micro-robots - the VIBEBOTS - that will be able to actively penetrate real tissues and open up outstanding opportunities for useful biomedical applications.
Financiële details & Tijdlijn
Financiële details
| Subsidiebedrag | € 1.499.728 |
| Totale projectbegroting | € 1.499.728 |
Tijdlijn
| Startdatum | 1-1-2023 |
| Einddatum | 31-12-2027 |
| Subsidiejaar | 2023 |
Partners & Locaties
Projectpartners
- DEUTSCHES KREBSFORSCHUNGSZENTRUM HEIDELBERGpenvoerder
- UNIVERSITY OF STUTTGART
- TECHNISCHE UNIVERSITAET DRESDEN
Land(en)
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