A biomimetic helical robot actuated by rotating magnetic field for targeted navigation and in situ prodrug activation to treat intestinal diseases

Summary The high incidence of chronic intestinal diseases and the significant influence of intestinal disorders on overall health prompt us to optimize and innovate therapeutic strategies, especially those involving ingestible dosage forms. However, the clinical translation of these strategies is challenged by a lack of precise spatiotemporal controllability, readily inducing off-target effects. Herein, we develop a biomimetic helical robot (BHR) that enables targeted cargo transport and localized prodrug activation within the gastrointestinal (GI) tract by systemically integrating magnetic and optical responsiveness. Under magnetic guidance, a bioinspired structure facilitates the travel of BHR through the morphologically and biochemically complicated GI tract. Further, BHR, with its two different compartments individually loaded with a prodrug and the corresponding drug activator, achieves near-infrared (NIR)-triggered drug release and in situ prodrug activation, consequently generating anti-inflammatory and biosafe effects at molecular, cellular, and whole-animal levels. Collectively, BHR as a promising ingestible medical system transforms intestinal pharmacotherapy to be more convenient, effective, and intelligent.