Apr 23, 2024
5:00pm - 7:00pm
Flex Hall C, Level 2, Summit
Fan Wang1,2
Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems1,ETH Zürich2
In the evolving landscape of targeted drug delivery systems, the integration of advanced materials and nanotechnology is paving the way for next-generation medical treatments. This study explores the innovative conjunction of Zeolitic Imidazolate Framework-8 (ZIF-8) and iron-platinum (FePt) nanoparticles in the form of ZIF-8@FePt nanorobots, proposing a groundbreaking approach for precision drug delivery activated by radiofrequency (RF) stimulation.<br/>ZIF-8, a renowned metal-organic framework (MOF), exhibits exceptional characteristics conducive to drug delivery, primarily due to its stable, porous structure capable of high drug loading and controlled release. Concurrently, FePt nanoparticles stand out with superior magnetic properties, including high magnetic anisotropy and responsiveness to external magnetic fields, marking their significance in biomedical applications.<br/>This research underscores the synthesis of ZIF-8@FePt nanorobots, leveraging the symbiotic benefits of ZIF-8's drug encapsulation efficiency and FePt's magnetic navigability. The nanorobots are engineered for responsiveness to RF stimulation, a feature that sets them apart in controlled drug delivery scenarios. Upon RF exposure, the induced heat disrupts the MOF structure, triggering the release of the encapsulated therapeutic agents precisely at targeted sites. This mechanism not only promises enhanced drug delivery efficacy but also minimizes systemic side effects, presenting a favorable profile for cancer therapy, among other chronic conditions.<br/>Furthermore, the study delves into the real-time monitoring aspect, facilitated by the inherent magnetic properties of FePt, allowing for tracking the nanorobots' journey within the biological system. The concept of swarm intelligence is also introduced, highlighting the potential for coordinated, intelligent behavior of nanorobots, significantly optimizing the therapeutic outcome.<br/>However, the application of RF in such advanced drug delivery systems is not without challenges. The research emphasizes the need for meticulous optimization of RF parameters to prevent potential thermal damage and ensure patient safety. Additionally, extensive in-vivo studies are necessitated to ascertain the biocompatibility, efficacy, and safety of these ZIF-8@FePt nanorobots.<br/>In conclusion, the ZIF-8@FePt nanorobots under RF stimulation herald a new era in drug delivery, merging materials science, nanotechnology, and medicine. While preliminary results are promising, comprehensive clinical trials are imperative for their transition from a theoretical model to a medical mainstay. This exploration marks a significant stride toward personalized, precision medicine, potentially revolutionizing healthcare paradigms.