Active nanomotors surpass passive nanomedicines: current progress and challenges

Abstract

Artificial nanomotors show advantages over traditional nanomedicines in biomedical applications due to their active locomotion by converting various energy sources into mechanical force in situ. Currently, nanomotors are attracting wide attention in diagnosis and therapy towards clinical applications. In this perspective, we summarize recent developments of nanomotors in biomedical applications, including targeted drug delivery, biological barrier penetration, and diagnostics and cancer treatment. The development of nanomotors in biomedicine still faces considerable challenges and practical difficulties towards clinical use, which are discussed in detail. Finally, we propose potential solutions that may help the development of nanomotors towards advanced diagnostics and therapy.