Self‐Immolative Polymers to Initiate Locomotion in Motors

Abstract

Nanomotors that use polymers to gain locomotion is an upcoming concept. Here, we made use of self‐immolative polymers (SIP), i. e., polymers that disintegrate in a domino‐like fashion, to initiate motion in 500 nm silica particles. We selected a BSA‐triggered SIP and assessed its degradation both in solution and when deposited onto the silica particles. A 1.5‐fold increase of monomer was found in the solution compared to the controls, suggesting the SIP disintegration. The locomotion of the SIP‐coated motors was shown to have an average velocity of up to ∼3 μm s−1 when incubated with BSA. These proof of concept findings illustrate an alternative polymer‐powered motor design, which benefits from modern polymer chemistry concepts.

Application of Magnetic Micro/Nanomotors in Biomedicine

“…These motors have enhanced Brownian motion, and the effective diffusion coefficient is as high as 0.5 μm 2 s –1 . There are also studies on polymer decomposition or polymers acting as a carrier to promote the progress of MNMs. − …”

Recent Advances in Stimuli-Responsive Self-Immolative Polymers for Drug Delivery and Molecular Imaging

“…Furthermore, since the degradation of SIPs occurs progressively from one end to another, researchers have successfully constructed nanomotors based on this principle. 185 This novel concept material might be employed in future technologies such as nanorobotics. Regarding these potential applications, several issues await us to solve in the future, such as the comprehensive investigation and fine control of the reactions between the degradation products and intracellular biomolecules.…”

“…Degradation products like quinone methide have demonstrated the ability to capture glutathione, proteins, and even nucleic acids, which could find applications for in situ antigen capture and delivery, immunotherapy, and so forth. Furthermore, since the degradation of SIPs occurs progressively from one end to another, researchers have successfully constructed nanomotors based on this principle . This novel concept material might be employed in future technologies such as nanorobotics.…”