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Updated: Jun 9, 2026
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Combined Near-infrared Fluorescent Imaging and Micro-computed Tomography for Directly Visualizing Cerebral Thromboemboli
Published on: September 25, 2016
Micro/Nanorobotic Systems for Imaging-Guided Closed-Loop Thrombus Recanalization
Jiajun He1, Zhixin Xia1, Lipeng Liao2,3
1College of Chemistry and Environmental Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518055, China.
Cyborg and Bionic Systems (Washington, D.C.)
|June 8, 2026
Summary
New micro/nanoscale technologies offer safer and faster ways to reopen blocked blood vessels caused by blood clots (thrombi). These advanced systems complement current treatments for stroke and heart attack, aiming to improve clot dissolution and reduce complications.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Nanotechnology
- Interventional Cardiology
Background:
- Current treatments for blood clots (thrombi) in stroke, heart attack, deep-vein thrombosis, and pulmonary embolism involve clot-dissolving drugs and catheter-based mechanical retrieval.
- These methods face limitations including incomplete clot removal, reduced efficacy against dense clots, and risks like hemorrhage and embolization.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare "tethered" catheter systems and "untethered" micro/nanoscale systems for reopening blocked blood vessels.
- To review advancements in nanocarriers and micro/nanorobots for targeted clot disruption and therapeutic delivery.
Main Methods:
- Comparative review of "tethered" catheter technologies and "untethered" micro/nanoscale systems (nanocarriers, micro/nanorobots).
- Analysis of externally powered actuation (magnetic, ultrasound, light) for micro/nanoscale device navigation and clot interaction.
- Summary of imaging and tracking strategies for real-time feedback control.
Main Results:
- Nanocarriers enhance clot targeting and payload retention, improving thrombolytic efficacy.
- Externally powered microrobots and microswarms demonstrate active mixing and mechanical assistance, reducing treatment time and drug dosage in preclinical models.
- Imaging and tracking strategies are crucial for precise device control and treatment monitoring.
Conclusions:
- Untethered micro/nanoscale systems show promise for overcoming limitations of current clot removal techniques.
- Addressing translational barriers like navigation, clearance, safety, and workflow integration is essential for clinical translation.
- These advanced technologies offer a path toward safer and more effective therapies for thromboembolic diseases.
