Microrobot's Performance in Cell-Lining Surfaces and Ex-Vivo Tissue

Medical microrobots (MRs) have emerged as promising tools for various biomedical applications, spanning therapeutics, diagnostics, and surgical interventions. Of particular interest is their potential in the female reproductive tract, where the intricate nature of the organs presents unique challenges and opportunities. However, our understanding of how these microrobots perform in this complex environment remains limited. This study, aims to assess the motion capabilities of various MRs designs, including spiral embryo carriers, soft-capsule alginate beads, and therapeutic Janus particles, across diverse environmental conditions. Specifically, we focused on evaluating their performance on a cell monolayer that simulates the lining of the reproductive tract. Our findings reveal that the motion of these microrobots above cell-coated channels does not compromise cell viability. Furthermore, we demonstrate the successful propulsion of Janus micromotors coated with cumulus cells as a camouflage to improve their performance in ex vivo bovine oviduct tissue. This study enhances our understanding of MRs dynamics in the female reproductive tract and lays the basis for their future integration into targeted therapeutic and diagnostic strategies in gynecological medicine.