Microalgae-driven microrobots: revolutionizing drug delivery and targeted therapy in biopharmaceuticals
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Microalgae are a group of photosynthetic autotrophic microorganisms that are classified as Generally Recognized as safe (GRAS). They are rich in high-value bioactive compounds with broad applications in food, healthcare and pharmaceuticals. Recent research demonstrated that microalgae have significant potential as innovative biomaterials for biomedical applications. The unique phototactic movement of microalgae enables them controlled drug delivery to targeted tissues in patients. Furthermore, microalgae produce oxygen via photosynthesis when exposed to light, overcoming tumor hypoxia limitations and improving biomedical imaging in vivo. Additionally, the intrinsic biophysical properties and modifiability of microalgae can be harnessed for the development of biohybrid robots and bioprinting, expanding their clinical applications. This review highlights current engineering innovations in microalgae for medical applications, such as drug delivery, tumor hypoxia targeting, wound healing, and immunotherapy. The remarkable biocompatibility, diverse biological functionalities, and cost-effectiveness of microalgae provide a promising platform for future application of targeted drug delivery and precision medicine.
Source: Advanced Biotechnology
Authors: Xianmin Wang, Songlin Ma, Renwu Liu, Tiexin Zhang, Xinyu Mao, Yuxue Chen, Pengcheng Wan, Zhanyou Chi, Fantao Kong
Language: English
Topic: Micro and Nano Robotics
Subfield: Condensed Matter Physics
Field: Physics and Astronomy
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
Estimated APC paid:
Awards: G8396938879, G851529914, G8621616266
OpenAlex ID: W4411918541