Dynamic Nanoparticle Assembly-Based Biomedical Microrobots

Hertle, L.; Ye, H.; Ko, H.; Franco, C.; Gantenbein, V.; Sivakumaran, D.; Paul, I.; Kim, M.; Veciana, A.; Baraldi, L.; Tan, Z.; Landers, F. C.; Theiler, P.; Bruna, P.; Hu, M.; Mei, Y.; Garaio, E.; Lopez-Ortega, A.; Puigmarti-Luis, J.; Weisskopf, M.; Chen, X.-Z.; Nelson, B. J.; Pane, S.

doi:10.64898/2026.07.30.741696

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bioRxiv · 10.64898/2026.07.30.741696

Dynamic Nanoparticle Assembly-Based Biomedical Microrobots

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Abstract

Precise drug delivery within anatomically complex tissues demands systems capable of both active navigation and deep tissue access, properties that have remained difficult to reconcile in existing nanocarriers and microrobots. Here we introduce Dynabots, a dynamic microrobotic assembly constructed from multifunctional nanoparticles covalently linked by thermally cleavable molecular connectors. This nanoparticle-rich architecture enables the integration of magnetic, imaging, and therapeutic components while preserving a high content of functional material. Collective assembly imparts enhanced magnetic responsiveness and maneuverability, enabling controlled navigation through tortuous biological environments. Upon exposure to mild thermal stimuli, the assemblies undergo programmed disassembly, releasing individual nanoparticles that can diffuse through tissue for localized therapeutic action. We establish the programmable transitions, biocompatibility, and therapeutic efficacy of this process across in vitro and in vivo models, including real-time fluoroscopic guidance within anatomically realistic phantoms and live rodent and porcine systems. By integrating magnetic control, reconfigurable architecture, and stimulus-triggered disassembly, Dynabots unite navigational precision with tissue permeability, providing a versatile platform for adaptive and deep-tissue drug delivery.

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Hertle, L., Ye, H., Ko, H., Franco, C., Gantenbein, V., Sivakumaran, D., Paul, I., Kim, M., Veciana, A., Baraldi, L., Tan, Z., Landers, F. C., Theiler, P., Bruna, P., Hu, M., Mei, Y., Garaio, E., Lopez-Ortega, A., Puigmarti-Luis, J., Weisskopf, M., Chen, X.-Z., Nelson, B. J., Pane, S.. 2026-07-30. Dynamic Nanoparticle Assembly-Based Biomedical Microrobots. https://doi.org/10.64898/2026.07.30.741696

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