Magnetic Helical Micro- and Nanorobots: Toward Their Biomedical Applications

Abstract

Magnetic helical micro- and nanorobots can perform 3D navigation in various liquids with a sub-micrometer precision under low-strength rotating magnetic fields (<10 mT). Since magnetic fields with low strengths are harmless to cells and tissues, magnetic helical micro/nanorobots are promising tools for biomedical applications, such as minimally invasive surgery, cell manipulation and analysis, and targeted therapy. This review provides general information on magnetic helical micro/nanorobots, including their fabrication, motion control, and further functionalization for biomedical applications.

Keywords

• magnetic helical micro/nanorobots
• mobile micro/nanorobots
• artificial bacterial flagella (ABFs)
• functionalization
• biomedical applications