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.