Smart MXene-based microrobots for targeted drug delivery and synergistic therapies

Abstract

MXenes and their composites exhibit remarkable electrical conductivity, mechanical flexibility, and biocompatibility, making them ideal candidates for microrobot fabrication. Their tunable surface chemistry allows for easy functionalization, which enhances their interaction with biological environments, thereby facilitating targeted therapies. Such smart microrobots can be engineered to navigate through complex biological systems with precision via the integration of responsive elements, such as stimuli-sensitive polymers or magnetic components. MXene-based microrobots are able to actively seek out specific tissues or cells. This capability is crucial for applications in cancer treatment, where localized drug delivery minimizes side effects and enhances therapeutic efficacy. The primary advantage of MXene-based microrobots lies in their ability to deliver therapeutic agents directly to diseased cells. Utilizing ligand–receptor interactions, these microrobots can bind to target cells and release their payload in a controlled manner. This targeted delivery system not only improves the effectiveness of the drug but also reduces the required dosage, thus mitigating potential side effects. Moreover, smart MXene-based microrobots can facilitate synergistic therapies by co-delivering multiple therapeutic agents. For instance, combining chemotherapy drugs with immunotherapeutic agents could enhance treatment outcomes in cancer therapy. The ability to simultaneously deliver different types of drugs allows for more comprehensive treatment strategies that can tackle tumor heterogeneity. Significant advancements are anticipated in synergistic therapies, particularly in chemo-photothermal, chemodynamic, and photothermal/photodynamic therapies. These strategies leverage multiple therapeutic modalities to enhance cancer treatment outcomes. Despite their outstanding potential, several challenges remain in the development of MXene-based microrobots namely matters pertaining to scalability, stability in biological environments, and associated regulatory hurdles which ought to be addressed. Future research should focus on optimizing the design and functionality of these microrobots, including enhancing their navigation capabilities and ensuring their safety and effectiveness in vivo. By presenting the innovative capabilities of MXene-based microrobots, this perspective aims to inspire additional explorations in the field of advanced targeted drug delivery systems and synergistic therapies, ultimately contributing to the future of personalized medicine and oncology.