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Label-free microcargo delivery and controllable release in complex fluidic environments based on autonomous magnetic
Zhixin Wu1,2, Liushuai Zheng3, Lei Fan4,5
1State key Laboratory of Extreme Environment Optoelectronic Dynamic Measurement Technology and Instrument, North University of China, Taiyuan, 030051, China.
Microsystems & Nanoengineering
|July 24, 2026
Summary
This study introduces a novel magnetic microswarm system for label-free cargo delivery. The system uses frequency-switching magnetic fields for autonomous capture and release, demonstrating robust performance in dynamic environments.
Area of Science:
- Microrobotics
- Biomedical Engineering
- Materials Science
Background:
- Magnetic microswarms offer controllable targeted delivery but require label-free cargo handling and environmental robustness.
- Current methods often rely on magnetic labeling, posing risks and limiting applications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a label-free microcargo delivery strategy using magnetic microswarms.
- To enhance microswarm anti-interference capabilities for stable transport in disturbed environments.
- To achieve controllable cargo release via a frequency-switching mechanism.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a magnetic tweezers system to actuate magnetic microswarms.
- Implemented high-frequency magnetic fields for autonomous cargo capture.
- Employed low-frequency magnetic fields for controlled cargo release.
- Leveraged visual feedback for navigation and cargo manipulation.
Main Results:
- Successfully demonstrated label-free capture and stable transport of microscale cargos (microspheres, cell spheroids up to 400 µm).
- Achieved autonomous navigation and cargo transport in complex structures and dynamic flow conditions, resisting fluid impacts.
- Realized controllable, frequency-switched release of nonmagnetic cargos.
- Observed sequential release of multiple cargos, with smaller items discharged first.
Conclusions:
- The developed frequency-switching strategy enables label-free, controlled cargo delivery and release with enhanced anti-interference capabilities.
- This approach overcomes limitations of magnetic labeling, supporting practical translation of magnetic microrobots.
- The system shows potential for sequential release of multiple cargos, expanding application possibilities.
