WASHINGTON, Dec. 17, 2024 — Infertility affects approximately 186 million people globally, with fallopian tube blockages responsible for 11%-67% of female infertility cases. In a new study published in AIP Advances, researchers at the SIAT Magnetic Soft Microrobots Lab have introduced a groundbreaking treatment using a magnetically driven robotic microscrew to clear these blockages.
“This new technology offers a potentially less invasive alternative to traditional surgical methods used to clear tubal obstructions, which often rely on conventional catheters and guidewires,” said Haifeng Xu, the lead author.
The microrobot, made from nonmagnetic photosensitive resin and coated with a thin iron layer, gains magnetic properties. When exposed to an external magnetic field, it rotates, generating movement that allows it to navigate through a simulated fallopian tube. In tests, the robot successfully cleared an obstruction made of cell clusters, mimicking typical blockages in the female reproductive system. This magnetic control enables precise movement through the narrow and delicate fallopian tube.
The microrobot’s design is another major breakthrough. It features a screw-shaped body with a helical structure, a central cylindrical tube, and a disk-shaped tail. The helix structure provides propulsion, while the tail stabilizes the robot’s motion. As the screw rotates, it creates a vortex that helps push debris toward the tail, clearing the blockage more effectively.
In tests, the microrobot was both effective and efficient, with the rotating screw helping to propel the fragmented debris away from the obstruction.
Looking ahead, the research team plans to refine the microrobot, making it smaller and more advanced. They also aim to test it in isolated organ models and incorporate real-time in vivo imaging systems to track its movement. The team envisions expanding its applications to other surgical procedures, including automatic control systems to enhance the efficiency of medical treatments.
“Our ultimate goal is to provide a more effective, minimally invasive solution for patients suffering from infertility,” said Xu.
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