MOF-based magnetically manipulated microwheel-robots for triglyceride degradation

Micro/nanorobots (MNRs) have demonstrated immense potential in the biomedical field, particularly magnetic-controlled MNRs, due to their non-invasive operation, high controllability, and excellent penetration abilities. Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) are ideal for micro-robot design due to their high payload capacity and responsiveness. But creating customizable MOF-based micro-robots presents challenges. This study presents a novel method combining micro/nanofabrication and biphasic interfacial crystallization to construct customizable MOF-based magnetically manipulated microwheel-robots (MMWRs). By incorporating magnetic nanoparticles in situ, these MMWRs exhibit excellent magnetic responsiveness, performing various motions—such as standing, lying, rotating, tumbling, and rolling—under adjustable magnetic fields, enabling precise control and complex task execution. Furthermore, lipase-loaded MMWRs efficiently degrade tributyrin, with motion-induced diffusion and a pH-responsive feedback mechanism enhancing lipase release and degradation efficiency. Positron emission tomography with computed tomography imaging confirmed the potential of MMWRs in a simulated pipeline scenario. The customizable MOF-based micro-robots pave the way for advancements in environmental degradation and disease treatment.