3D-Printed ‘Microfish’ Could Be Used for Human Drug Delivery
~!~ Researchers at University of California, San Diego have used innovative nanotechnology, 3D printing and micro robotic technology to develop nano scale fish which could be used for drug delivery or detoxification// The research project could pave way for smart nano robots which can find application in variety of industries and in medicine//
~!~ The research team demonstrated that the micro fish could remove toxins from water// Each microfish measures 120 microns long and 30 microns thick// The research team developed a new 3D printing technique termed as microscale continuous optical printing (μCOP)// With use of μCOP technology, the research team was able to test different shapes of fish including manta rays and sharks//
~!~ Earlier techniques to create micro robots use mechanisms such as microjet engines, microdrillers and microrockets// These microrobots are not capable of performing more sophisticated tasks// With the precision of the newly developed 3D printing technique, the research team can print hundreds of robots in few seconds//
~!~ Professors Shaochen Chen and Joseph Wang of the NanoEngineering Department at the UC San Diego are leading the research project//
~!~ The research team installed platinum nanoparticles in the tails, which react with hydrogen peroxide to propel the microfish forward, and magnetic iron oxide nanoparticles in the heads, which allowed them to be steered with magnets//