tPA-anchored nanorobots for in vivo arterial recanalization at submillimeter-scale segments

Sci Adv. 2024 Feb 2;10(5):eadk8970. doi: 10.1126/sciadv.adk8970. Epub 2024 Jan 31.

Abstract

Micro/nanorobots provide a promising approach for intravascular therapy with high precision. However, blood vessel is a highly complex system, and performing interventional therapy in those submillimeter segments remains challenging. While micro/nanorobots can enter submillimeter segments, they may still comprise nonbiodegradable parts, posing a considerable challenge for post-use removal. Here, we developed a retrievable magnetic colloidal microswarm, composed of tPA-anchored Fe3O4@mSiO2 nanorobots (tPA-nbots), to archive tPA-mediated thrombolysis under balloon catheter-assisted magnetic actuation with x-ray fluoroscopy imaging system (CMAFIS). By deploying tPA-nbot transcatheter to the vicinity of the thrombus, the tPA-nbot microswarms were magnetically actuated to the blood clot at the submillimeter vessels with high precision. After thrombolysis, the tPA-nbots can be retrieved via the CMAFIS, as demonstrated in ex vivo organ of human placenta and in vivo carotid artery of rabbit. The proposed colloidal microswarm provides a promising robotic tool with high spatial precision for enhanced thrombolysis with low side effects.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Arteries*
  • Humans
  • Rabbits
  • Tissue Plasminogen Activator* / therapeutic use

Substances

  • Tissue Plasminogen Activator