A Comprehensive Review of Current and Future Perspectives of Microand Nano Robot Technology and Its Applications in the Medical Field

Micro- and nanorobots are rapidly emerging as innovative tools in biomedicine, capable of performing highly localized tasks such as targeted drug delivery, minimally invasive diagnostics, and microscale surgical procedures. A notable shift over the past decade has been the evolution from rigid, hard-structured devices to soft, flexible micro- and nanorobots. This transition enables better adaptability within complex biological environments and enhances biocompatibility, paving the way for more effective and safer in vivo applications. Recent research has emphasized the fabrication of soft micro- and nanorobotic components, including actuators, sensors, hinges, joints, and drug reservoirs. Inspired by the locomotion mechanisms of flexible microorganisms, these components have been designed to mimic natural motion. The integration of organic and stimuli-responsive materials, such as polymers and supramolecular ensembles, has further enabled these systems to undergo complex behaviors, including dynamic shape transformations and advanced propulsion strategies. Additionally, biological entities, such as contractile mammalian cells and microorganisms, have been harnessed as microengines, driving motion by inducing deformation in synthetic materials. These biohybrid designs represent a significant advancement in the functionality and versatility of micro- and nanoswimmers. Recent advancements have introduced the concept of Collectives of Nanorobots (CNRs), expanding the functional scope of these systems for medical applications. These collectives have demonstrated potential in a range of critical tasks, including (a) mapping anatomical structures, (b) regulating cardiovascular function, (c) managing glucose and insulin levels, (d) executing precise drug delivery, (e) diagnosing cellular abnormalities, and (f) selectively targeting and eliminating tumor cells. This review highlights the diverse architectures, patented technologies, and actuation mechanisms that underpin the operation of soft micro- and nanorobots. By examining their motion dynamics and clinical utility, this work underscores the transformative potential of these devices in next-generation medical interventions.