Precision-controlled sequential drug release via electrochemical corrosion of liquid metal nanoparticles

An electrically controlled, programmable drug delivery system offers substantial potential in personalized biomedical devices. Current methods lack precise control over drug amounts and sequences, which is crucial for optimizing therapy. We present a solution with drug molecules modified onto gallium-based liquid metal nanoparticles (LMNPs) and using the electrochemical corrosion of LMNPs to controllably release the drugs, which allows arbitrary choice of drug types, release speed (fastest at less than 1 second), and sequence of release for customized therapy. This system applies to many types of drugs (molecules containing amine, thiol, hydroxyl, and carboxyl groups) and is integrated onto a stretchable thin film and can be implemented as epidermal or implantable devices. We tested the platform with antibiotics for wound infections and an antitumor drug for subcutaneous melanoma, confirming its excellent therapeutic efficacy and biocompatibility in both in vivo and in vitro tests.