Janus Micro/Nanorobots in Biomedical Applications

Abstract Janus particles possess two or more distinct domains that are anisotropic in composition or surface features. They integrate different or even incompatible properties within a single particle, making them possible to perform diverse functions and multiple tasks simultaneously. Advances in micro/nanorobots demonstrate that they can effectively convert diverse energy sources into movement and reach target locations with precision. Integration of Janus structure with micro/nanobots is emerging as a promising tool for biomedical applications. In this review, the fabrication and energy sources of Janus micro/nanorobots are briefly introduced. After that, the recent progress of Janus micro/nanorobots for biomedicine, with a special focus on their applications for cargo delivery, bioimaging, biosensing, surgery, and therapy are presented and discussed. The application of Janus micro/nanorobots in biomedicine still faces serious challenges from fabrication, engines, biocompatibility, and biodegradation for their widespread in clinical situations. Nevertheless, a few emerging materials and approaches offer potential solutions to these problems.