Magnetic Manipulation of a Magnetotactic Bacteria-based Biomicrorobot

Abstract

Microrobots has the potential to be remotely manipulated in complex biological fluids and organ tissues. Magnetotactic bacteria are seen as a possible avenue for targeted therapies because of their magnetic and motile abilities. In this study, an electromagnetic coil control system was built, which contains three sets of coils, a data acquisition card, a driver board, and a power supply. It generates a uniform magnetic field of 7 mT at the center of the system with up to 98% magnetic field uniformity in the central operating area. The magnetizing bacteria used are about 3-5um in length and move at a speed of about 23. 73um/s. Since the bacteria themselves have a magnetic moment, the magnetic field generated by the regulated current can apply a steering moment to the magnetizing bacteria to achieve directional guidance. The motion of the complex path of magnetotactic bacteria can be achieved by controlling the program. This provides a new pathway for targeted therapy and targeted drug delivery for diseases.