Acoustic-propelled micro/nanomotors and nanoparticles for biomedical research, diagnosis, and therapeutic applications

Abstract

Acoustic manipulation techniques have gained significant attention across various fields, particularly in medical diagnosis and biochemical research, due to their biocompatibility and non-contact operation. In this article, we review the broad range of biomedical applications of micro/nano-motors that use acoustic manipulation methods, with a specific focus on cell manipulation, targeted drug release for cancer treatment and genetic disease diagnosis. These applications are facilitated by acoustic-propelled micro/nano-motors and nanoparticles which are manipulated by acoustic tweezers. Acoustic systems enable high precision positioning and can be effectively combined with magnetic manipulation techniques. Furthermore, acoustic propulsion facilitates faster transportation speeds, making it suitable for tasks in blood flow, allowing for precise positioning and in-body manipulation of cells, microprobes, and drugs. By summarizing and understanding these acoustic manipulation methods, this review aims to provide a summary and discussion of the acoustic manipulation methods for biomedical research, diagnostic, and therapeutic applications.

Particle patterning diversity achieved by a PZT device with different experimental configurations

“…In general, two different acoustic modes are used for particle manipulation: bulk acoustic waves (BAWs) and SAWs. 45) BAWs are commonly generated on a piezoelectric ceramic element (e.g., PZT), 46) while the SAWs are generated by patterning of the interdigital transducer (IDT) electrodes on a piezoelectric single crystal or piezoelectric thin films (e.g., LiNbO 3 , AlN, and ZnO), 47,48) propagating along the surface of the piezoelectric substrate. Although the SAW-based acoustofluidic technologies have been widely used for one-dimensional (1D), 2D, and even 3D manipulation of particles/cells, 22) the device preparation requires expensive cleanroom fabrication facilities and lengthy fabrication procedures, such as the lift-off and metal evaporation processes for IDT electrodes.…”