UCSD Microrobots Propel Lung Cancer Survival Rates: Discover How Mice Survival Improved to 37 Days

Tejal Somvanshi Tejal Somvanshi

UCSD engineers have developed microrobots that enhance lung cancer survival rates in mice, extending lifespan significantly.

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These tiny robots swim through the lungs, delivering cancer drugs directly to metastatic tumors, a breakthrough in medical nanotechnology.

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The study, led by professors Wang and Zhang, achieved a median survival improvement to 37 days in treated mice.

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The microrobots are ingeniously crafted with drug-filled nanoparticles attached to green algae cells, enabling efficient drug delivery.

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Nanoparticles are coated with biodegradable polymer spheres loaded with doxorubicin and red blood cell membranes for immune evasion.

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This formulation ensures safe and effective treatment, with biocompatible materials used throughout.

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Previous trials demonstrated the microrobots' efficacy against lethal pneumonia, now adapted to combat lung cancer metastases.

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The active swimming motion of these microrobots enhances drug distribution and prolongs retention in deep lung tissues.

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UCSD researchers aim to advance to larger animal trials and, ultimately, clinical trials for human lung cancer treatment.

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