Microelectrode and microchannel integrated micro-robotic arm for bacteria sensing and on-demand drug delivery
Journal
Sensors and Actuators B: Chemical
Journal Volume
425
Start Page
136970
ISSN
0925-4005
Date Issued
2025-02-15
Author(s)
Yi-Hong Lin
Yu-Jie Lin
Ya-Ting Hsu
Chia-Ying Tsai
Pulikkutty Subramaniyan
Chao-Min Cheng
Abstract
Traditional methods such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR) face significant limitations in identifying unknown bacterial targets and in the detection of live multi-strain bacterial coinfections. These methods often fail to offer real-time solutions and precise treatments for diverse bacterial communities present in situ. To address these challenges, we introduce a novel micro-robotic arm system equipped with an integrated sensing electrode and a microchannel. This system combines a scanning electrochemical probe and a microfluidic channel to enable simultaneous biosensing and on-demand drug delivery. The dual functionality of this device successfully addresses the limitations of traditional bacterial identification methods by providing real-time detection and treatment capabilities. Specifically, the technology monitors oxygen levels to detect aerobic bacterial contamination and initiates immediate drug delivery upon detection. The efficacy of this approach was validated using porcine eyeballs, artificial wound samples, and fabric gauzes. The results demonstrate accurate identification of aerobic bacteria and effective pinpointed treatment with a hydrogel-based therapeutic. This innovative method, merging electrochemical sensing with precise drug delivery, presents a significant advancement in managing multi-strain bacterial coinfections, offering a groundbreaking solution to a persistent clinical challenge.
Subjects
Bacterial Detection
Electrochemical Sensor
Microfluidic System
Microrobotic Arm
Real-Time Drug Delivery
Scanning Electrochemical Probe
Publisher
Elsevier BV
Type
journal article