A research team led by Professor Igor Aronson made a major discovery. Specifically, they developed self-propelled nanoparticles with controlled movements. Consequently, this advancement overcomes the previous issue of erratic behavior.
The team transformed the nanoparticles into propeller shapes. Notably, this redesign provided precise control and greater functionality. As a result, the particles can now move with remarkable accuracy.
Their findings, published in Small, indicate exciting possibilities. For instance, these nanoparticles could revolutionize drug delivery and lab-on-a-chip systems. Furthermore, this advancement could significantly reshape both medical and technological applications.
Innovation in Particle Shape
Nanoparticles have traditionally been limited to rod and donut shapes. This limitation arose from fabrication challenges.
The team used a nanoscribe machine to 3D print propeller-shaped nanoparticles. This novel design operates effectively at the nanoscale. As a result, they gained better control over particle movements.
This breakthrough addresses the challenge of random, directionless behavior. It paves the way for Nano-Propellers’ precision drug delivery, enhancing future medical applications.
Chirality for Enhanced Movement
The propeller shape of these nanoparticles uses chirality, resembling a screw or spiral staircase. This design allows for controlled movement, triggered by chemical reactions or magnetic fields.
Chirality determines the direction of movement, adding a new dimension of control. This feature enables nanoparticles to navigate complex environments effectively. It enhances their potential for precise tasks, like targeted drug delivery or intricate lab-on-a-chip operations.
Optimizing Stability
Researchers experimented with different numbers, angles, and thicknesses of fins. They found the optimal design: propellers with four or more fins, tilted at 20 degrees, and 3.3 microns thick.
This design provides superior stability. As a result, the propellers can capture and transport cargo with precision.
Such precise control is vital for applications like Nano-Propellers’ targeted drug delivery. The ability to handle particles accurately creates new opportunities in medical and technological advancements.
Directed Movement and Cargo Capture
The team used a magnetic field to guide the propellers. This approach allowed for precise steering and control.
The propellers could capture and transport polymer cargo particles with remarkable accuracy. This method significantly surpasses the accidental cargo pickup seen with conventional shapes.
Controlling Interactions and Rotational Directions
Researchers manipulated the rotational direction of the micropropellers. By doing so, they fine-tuned how the particles interacted with each other.
The ability to switch rotational directions adds a powerful tool. It allows the propellers to either attract or repel one another, enhancing control.
This level of precision provides greater flexibility in particle management. It paves the way for more sophisticated applications, including improved coordination in targeted drug delivery.
Future Implications
Professor Aronson envisions using tailored mechanical, magnetic, and chemical responses. This strategy aims to achieve unprecedented control over nanoparticles.
This breakthrough could transform microscale devices and microrobotics. It opens new possibilities in scientific and medical fields, offering more precision and adaptability.
The study’s co-authors include Ashlee McGovern, Mu-Jie Huang, and Raymond Kapral from the University of Toronto, alongside Jiyuan Wang from Heilongjiang University of Science and Technology. Their contributions spanned both experimental work and simulation efforts, strengthening the research’s impact.
Source: Multifunctional Chiral Chemically-Powered Micropropellers for Cargo Transport and Manipulationhttps://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/smll.202304773