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Related Concept Videos

Amplifying Signals via Enzymatic Cascade01:22

Amplifying Signals via Enzymatic Cascade

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When a ligand binds to a cell-surface receptor, the receptor's intracellular domain changes shape, which may either activate its enzyme function or allow its binding to other molecules. The initial signal is amplified by most signal transduction pathways. This means that a single ligand molecule can activate multiple molecules of a downstream target. Proteins that relay a signal are most commonly phosphorylated at one or more sites, activating or inactivating the protein. Kinases catalyze...
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After glycolysis, the charged pyruvate molecules enter the mitochondria via active transport and undergo three enzymatic reactions. These reactions ensure that pyruvate can enter the next metabolic pathway so that energy stored in the pyruvate molecules can be harnessed by the cells.
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Many cellular signals are hydrophilic and therefore cannot pass through the plasma membrane. However, small or hydrophobic signaling molecules can cross the hydrophobic core of the plasma membrane and bind to internal, or intracellular, receptors that reside within the cell. Many mammalian steroid hormones use this mechanism of cell signaling, as does nitric oxide (NO) gas.
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Certain biochemical processes, such as embryonic development and cell growth regulation, depend on the repression of specific genes. DNA binding proteins known as eukaryotic transcription inhibitors regulate the repression of gene expression in eukaryotes. The presence of these inhibitors at the required location and time in the cell is triggered by the presence of hormones and additional signals from other cells.
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Enzymatic microbubble robots.

Songsong Tang1, Hong Han1, Xiaotian Ma1

  • 1Andrew and Peggy Cherng Department of Medical Engineering, Division of Engineering and Applied Science, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, USA.

Nature Nanotechnology
|February 2, 2026
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Summary
This summary is machine-generated.

Enzymatic microbubble robots offer steerable motion and enhanced biodegradability for biomedical applications. These intelligent microrobots improve deep tissue imaging, tumor targeting, and therapeutic payload delivery for advanced medical interventions.

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Area of Science:

  • Biomedical Engineering
  • Nanotechnology
  • Robotics

Background:

  • Current microrobotic systems lack the multifunctionality required for advanced biomedical applications.
  • There is a growing demand for intelligent, steerable, and biodegradable microrobots in medicine.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To develop novel enzymatic microbubble robots with enhanced capabilities for biomedical applications.
  • To demonstrate the potential of these robots for in vivo imaging, targeting, and therapeutic delivery.

Main Methods:

  • Engineered microrobots with natural protein shells modified with urease for autonomous propulsion.
  • Incorporated internal microbubbles as ultrasound contrast agents for imaging and navigation.
  • Integrated magnetic nanoparticles for guided motion and catalase for chemotaxis towards tumor sites.
  • Utilized focused ultrasound to trigger shell collapse and enhance therapeutic payload penetration.

Main Results:

  • Demonstrated steerable motion, biodegradability, and high in vivo imaging contrast.
  • Successfully targeted tumor sites using magnetic guidance and chemotaxis.
  • Achieved enhanced therapeutic payload penetration and significant antitumour effects in vivo.

Conclusions:

  • Enzymatic microbubble robots represent a multifunctional platform with significant potential for medical interventions.
  • This technology offers improved deep tissue imaging, precise targeting, and enhanced therapeutic efficacy.
  • The developed microrobots could transform precision therapies and revolutionize medical treatments.