Enzyme-driven micro/nanomotors: Recent advances and biomedical applications

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Nanotechnology
• Materials Science

Background:

• Micro/nanomotors (MNMs) are engineered machines with propulsion capabilities for tasks like targeted delivery and diagnostics.
• Enzyme-driven MNMs are a distinct subclass, utilizing enzymatic reactions for self-propulsion without chemical fuels.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent advancements in enzyme-driven micro/nanomotors (MNMs).
• To discuss enzyme conjugation techniques and motion control strategies for enzyme-driven MNMs.
• To highlight the advantages and limitations of current enzyme-driven MNM technologies.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of recent research on enzyme-driven MNMs.
• Analysis of enzyme linking strategies for MNM fabrication.
• Evaluation of motion control mechanisms for enzyme-driven nanomachines.

Main Results:

• Enzyme-driven MNMs exhibit unique advantages including fuel-free operation, enhanced cellular uptake, and facile conjugation with therapeutics.
• Various enzyme linking approaches enable the creation of functionalized MNMs with improved specificity and efficacy.
• Different motion control strategies offer precise manipulation of enzyme-driven MNMs for complex applications.

Conclusions:

• Enzyme-driven MNMs represent a promising platform for advanced biomedical applications due to their inherent advantages.
• Further research into enzyme conjugation and motion control will enhance the therapeutic potential of these nanomachines.
• Future perspectives include optimizing performance and exploring novel applications for enzyme-driven MNMs.