BIOresorbable and ENdogenous-powered ACTive microrobots

Objective

BIOENACT aims at advancing the technology readiness of the active microrobots introduced in the ERC-funded project CELLOIDS, paving the way to their future clinical translation. Such microrobots have a cell-like body consisting of an aqueous liquid droplet enclosed by a nanometric phospholipid membrane and containing active particles (that self-propel by consuming a fuel), which represent the “motors” driving the microrobots’ movement in complex porous environments. Whereas active particles are usually powered by hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) at high (toxic) concentrations, we have discovered that copper-based active particles can self-propel in relatively low H2O2 concentrations and, albeit slowly, in water with no added H2O2 (and preliminary evidence suggests that preconditioning the copper layer can enhance the particles’ self-propulsion). We also explored polydopamine as a biodegradable support material for active particles, while the microrobots’ phospholipids membrane is inherently bioresorbable. BIOENACT will exploit these fundamental results and make active particles-based microrobots suitable for in vivo applications by addressing three innovation objectives: (i) to enhance the self-propulsion of copper-based active particles and make microrobots powered by endogenous chemical substrates; (ii) to make active microrobots bioresorbable, also exploring the therapeutic potential of the degradation products; (iii) to develop a translational innovation strategy for active microrobots based on the analysis of the patent and regulatory environment. If successful, BIOENACT will provide a first demonstration of bioresorbable endogenous-powered active microrobots for medical applications, clearing their path to the clinics from major roadblocks. This will represent the first innovation step towards active microrobots-enabled therapies (especially anticancer), potentially leading to improved therapeutic outcomes and better life quality for millions of patients worldwide.