Robotic micromotors transforming oral drug administration

Abstract

The self-propulsion of biohybrid and synthetic micromotors extends their localized retention on the intestinal wall and leads to high bioavailability. Micromotors released from oral formulations maintain their functionality upon reaching the target treatment site. Synthetic micromotors utilize body fluids as a fuel source for their powerful bubble-thrust propulsion, while biohybrid motors rely on long-lasting fuel-free self-propulsion. Drugs can be loaded onto the surfaces of micromotors or embedded along with micromotor stirrers within the pill matrix. Enhanced macromolecule delivery is accomplished by embedding microinjectors and microneedles within oral pills. Oral medication is preferred for its convenience; however, efficient drug delivery remains challenging due to issues such as poor solubility, and absorption caused by mucosal barriers, which result in low bioavailability. In this review, we discuss new strategies integrating robotic capabilities into oral formulations to enhance drug delivery. Such robotic pill systems leverage the efficient propulsion of biological and synthetic micromotors to accelerate pill disintegration and overcome mucosal barriers, increasing bioavailability with lower doses and fewer side effects. In addition, advanced bioinspired robotic capsules, including microneedles, microinjectors, and microjet systems, offer enhanced macromolecule bioavailability comparable with that achieved with subcutaneous injections. The future of precision medicine lies in encapsulating diverse micromotors (with unique capabilities) within pharmaceutical carriers, offering groundbreaking opportunities for enhanced therapeutic interventions. Oral medication is preferred for its convenience; however, efficient drug delivery remains challenging due to issues such as poor solubility, and absorption caused by mucosal barriers, which result in low bioavailability. In this review, we discuss new strategies integrating robotic capabilities into oral formulations to enhance drug delivery. Such robotic pill systems leverage the efficient propulsion of biological and synthetic micromotors to accelerate pill disintegration and overcome mucosal barriers, increasing bioavailability with lower doses and fewer side effects. In addition, advanced bioinspired robotic capsules, including microneedles, microinjectors, and microjet systems, offer enhanced macromolecule bioavailability comparable with that achieved with subcutaneous injections. The future of precision medicine lies in encapsulating diverse micromotors (with unique capabilities) within pharmaceutical carriers, offering groundbreaking opportunities for enhanced therapeutic interventions.