Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 14, 2026

Targeting of Deep Brain Structures with Microinjections for Delivery of Drugs, Viral Vectors, or Cell Transplants
Published on: December 1, 2010
A Capsule-Type Microrobot with Pick-and-Drop Motion for Targeted Drug and Cell Delivery
Seungmin Lee1, Soyeun Kim2, Sangwon Kim3
1Department of Robotics Engineering, DGIST-ETH Microrobot Research Center, Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology (DGIST), 333 Techno Jungang-daero, Hyeonpung-Myeon, Dalseong-Gun, Daegu, 42988, Republic of Korea.
Abstract:
A capsule-type microrobot exhibits "pick-and-drop" (P&D) motion to hold a particle within a confined volume and transports it via a corkscrewing motion. The P&D motion is possible because the capsule-type microrobot has two parts: a plunger and a cap. The fabricated microrobots are wirelessly controlled by a magnetic manipulator. Drugs or cells can be encapsulated in the container of the capsule-type microrobot by the P&D motion or attached to the surface of the cap, which can be used as a supporting structure. Therefore, the capsule-type microrobot can deliver suspended or adherent cells. The drug or cells are minimally exposed or not completely exposed to the surrounding fluid and do not experience shear force when encapsulated in the container. As a proof-of-concept, secure transportation of microparticles in the confined volume of the capsule via P&D motion is demonstrated. In addition, the cap is used as a scaffold for neuronal cell culture on a rat brain slice to demonstrate its biocompatibility and feasibility for targeted cell delivery. The proposed capsule-type microrobot is suitable for diverse applications, as it protects the encapsulated materials.
More Related Videos
09:04Comprehensive Evaluation of the Effectiveness and Safety of Placenta-Targeted Drug Delivery Using Three Complementary Methods
Published on: September 10, 2018
14:10Contrast Ultrasound Targeted Treatment of Gliomas in Mice via Drug-Bearing Nanoparticle Delivery and Microvascular Ablation
Published on: December 15, 2010
Related Concept Videos
Drug Delivery Systems: Different Types
Modified-Release Drug Delivery Systems: Site-Targeted
Site-Targeted Drug Delivery Systems: Polymeric Carriers
Insulin Formulations: Types and Delivery
Short-acting insulins are divided into...
Drug Delivery: Overview
Enteral delivery involves administering drugs directly through swallowing, sublingual placement, or buccal application. Orally administered drugs predominantly navigate the...
Drug Delivery: Enteral Route