Targeting biofilm infections in humans using small scale robotics.

Microrobotics can address current limitations to control biofilm infections, and advance diagnostic and therapeutic modalities, in the face of increased antimicrobial resistance. Versatility in design and control of microrobots combined with targeting and detection capabilities, physical disruption and in situ drug delivery provides ample opportunities to improve the standard of care against biofilm infections. Opportunities for clinical translation and feasibility in complex physiological environments and different anatomical niches without harmful effects, mitigating the need for invasive surgical intervention. Biocompatibility and biodegradability of materials used in microrobotics is critical toward regulatory approval and clinical implementation. Potential solutions for microrobotics to overcome technical and regulatory hurdles for practical development and commercialization. The eradication of drug-resistant microbial biofilms remains an unresolved global health challenge. Small-scale robotics are providing innovative therapeutic and diagnostic approaches with high precision and efficacy. These approaches are rapidly moving from proof-of-concept studies to translational biomedical applications using ex vivo , animal, and clinical models. Here, we discuss the fundamental and translational aspects of how microrobots target the infection sites to disrupt the structural and functional traits of biofilms and their antimicrobial resistance mechanisms. We emphasize current approaches of mechanochemical disruption and on-site drug delivery that are supported by in vivo models and preclinical testing, while also highlighting diagnostics potential. We also discuss clinical translation challenges and provide perspectives for development of microrobotics approaches to combat biofilm infections and biofouling in humans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]