Genetically engineered human cell-based microrobots for selective cancer cell death

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Nanotechnology
• Cancer Therapy

Background:

• Current medical microrobots lack biological selectivity, limiting their therapeutic potential.
• Distinguishing cancerous from healthy cells at the target site remains a significant challenge.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a biohybrid microrobot system with both magnetic targeting and biological selectivity.
• To engineer microrobots capable of targeted and cancer-selective therapeutic delivery.

Main Methods:

• Human embryonic kidney cells were engineered to produce tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL).
• Engineered cells were conjugated to magnetic Janus particles (silica beads with FePt nanofilms).
• External magnetic fields were used to guide microrobots to tumor spheroids.

Main Results:

• Microrobots accumulated around tumor spheroids using magnetic fields.
• Engineered microrobots continuously released TRAIL over several days.
• Selective cancer cell death was observed without damaging healthy cells.

Conclusions:

• The biohybrid microrobot system successfully combines magnetic targeting with biological selectivity.
• This approach enables targeted, prolonged, and cancer-selective therapeutic delivery.
• The study demonstrates a novel strategy for advanced cancer treatment using microrobotics and cell therapy.