A team of scientists has developed nanorobots capable of delivering clot-forming drugs directly to brain aneurysms, offering a potentially revolutionary approach to stroke prevention. This experimental technology aims to provide a safer and more precise alternative to current treatments like stents and coils. The study, co-authored by Qi Zhou from the University of Edinburgh, highlights the potential of these tiny robots, each about one-twentieth the size of a human red blood cell, in treating this critical condition.
A Safer Alternative to Traditional Treatments
The nanorobots are designed to be a safer and more precise alternative to traditional treatments, which often require long-term use of blood thinners. "These remotely controlled magnetic nanobots provide a more precise and safer method for sealing cerebral aneurysms without invasive implants," said Zhou. The technology is still in its early stages but shows promise in revolutionizing the treatment of brain aneurysms.
How the Nanorobots Function
The nanorobots, measuring just 295 nanometers in diameter, consist of a magnetic core, a clotting agent (thrombin), and a coating that melts when heated. Surgeons can guide these nanobots to the aneurysm site using a magnetic field. Once in place, heat triggers the release of thrombin, forming a clot that blocks further blood circulation from the aneurysm. This method avoids deep insertion into delicate brain vessels, reducing the risk of complications.
Successful Trials in Rabbits
The nanorobots were tested on rabbits with induced aneurysms in their carotid arteries. Results showed stable clots forming to completely block the aneurysms, with the rabbits remaining healthy during a two-week follow-up period. These clots effectively seal off weak spots in the vessels, preventing potential ruptures without obstructing blood supply to the brain. Future research will focus on testing this technology in larger animals that more closely mimic human physiology and refining magnetic control for precise guidance of nanobots to deeper brain aneurysms.
