UC San Diego

Over the past decade, micro/nanomotors have emerged as novel and versatile nanotools demonstrating considerable promise for many environmental and biological applications. This dissertation aims to demonstrate unique advantages of micro/nanorobot platforms.

The first theme focuses on developing the use of ultrasound propelled nanostructures for diverse applications, including “on-the-move” capture and the transport of multiple cargoes and internalization and movement inside live MCF-7 cancer cells.

The second theme explores the use of acoustically triggered microcannons. This principle was tested towards mechanochemical blood clot degradation and enhancing drug permeability through the epidermis.

The third theme describes the use of biohybrid robotics systems for detoxification and decontamination of environmental pollutants, including bacteria (E. coli), nerve agent (methyl paraoxon) and heavy metal ions (Cd and Pb) from aqueous solutions.

In the not-so-distant future, Micro/nanorobots could serve as robust and versatile platform for potentially improving medical diagnosis and treatment.