Flexible implantable device intelligently controls drug release by preventing scar tissue formation

Researchers demonstrate a soft robotic implant developed at the University of Galway and MIT. Image credit: Martina Regan/AAAS Eurekalert website

According to a report in Science Robotics magazine on the 30th, a research team from the University of Galway in Ireland and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in the United States introduced in detail a breakthrough in medical device technology: they created an intelligent implantable device that can be used in medical devices. It senses when the drug begins to be rejected while taking the drug, and can use artificial intelligence (AI) to change its shape to adjust the dose of the drug released, while also reducing the impact of scar tissue. This technology can provide patients with intelligent, long-lasting, customized Customized treatment.

The first-generation device originally developed by the research team did not take into account the different responses of different patients, which ultimately led to scar tissue wrapping it up, hindering the application of the device. This time, they used AI technology to enable the device to respond to the implantation environment and potentially reduce the formation of scar tissue and maintain a longer service life.

Flexible robotic implants can make regular movements in the body, such as inflating and deflating, and this timed, repeated or varied motion can help prevent scar tissue from forming.

A key technology in the implantable device is a conductive porous membrane that senses when a pore is clogged with scar tissue. It detects blockage occurring when cells and the substances they produce block electrical signals through the cell membrane.

The researchers measured the electrical impedance on the membrane and the formation of scar tissue and found a correlation. They also developed and deployed a machine learning algorithm that predicts the number and force of actuation required to achieve consistent drug delivery, regardless of the degree of fibrosis. Using computer simulations, the researchers also explored the device's potential to release drugs over time. Studies have shown that changing the number and force with which the drive moves or changes shape allows the device to release more drugs, helping to bypass scar tissue that has formed.

Scars can damage the structure and function of normal tissue, affecting health and appearance. Scars can be seen as a manifestation of fibrosis, and fibroblast proliferation will not disappear on its own. The biggest feature of this implant is that it can not only reduce the degree of fibrosis, but also reduce the risk of fibrosis no matter what stage of development it has reached. , both can sense scar tissue over time and intelligently control drug release. With this capability, the device will also have huge potential for a wider range of personalized, precision drug delivery.