Basel (LabNews Media LLC) – Researchers at the University of Basel have developed a modular nanorobot that can self-assemble and perform various tasks. The system consists of a magnetically driven propulsion module and an interchangeable payload capsule, connected by a DNA-based "hook-and-loop" system.
The team led by Prof. Cornelia Palivan and Dr. Voichita Mihali successfully tested the nanorobot by loading it with enzymes that produce an anti-cancer agent in living cells. In experiments with HeLa cells, cell viability could be reduced to 16 percent within 72 hours. The modules can be magnetically recovered, separated, reloaded, and reused after use.
"Previous nanorobots were mostly designed for a single task. Our modular system, on the other hand, can be adapted to different applications," explains Cornelia Palivan. The payload capsule can be equipped with enzymes, active agents, or other bioactive substances as needed. Additional biomolecules on the capsule also enable targeted cell control.
The study was published in the journal Advanced Functional Materials (DOI: 10.1002/adfm.202600079). The researchers see the system as a promising tool for targeted drug production directly at the site of disease, as well as for industrial applications such as catalysis. In the long term, the technology could lead to a new generation of multifunctional nanertools in medicine, industry, and environmental technology.
