Nanobots: The Future of Cancer Treatment
- Mali Arwyn
- Aug 8
- 2 min read
Nanobots are microscopic robots, typically 50 to 100 nanometers wide. They are designed to carry out specific tasks, like delivering medication to a targeted area of the body. (1) During the past few years, scientists have used them to treat cancer in innovative ways.
In 2022, a research team at the Korea Institute of Science and Technology built “nanomachines” capable of infiltrating and destroying cancer cells. Cell death was caused by mechanical movement rather than medication (i.e., stabbing instead of poisoning). Additionally, the nanomachines were designed to only enter cells in the acidic environment that surrounds cancer. (2) This highly targeted approach is potentially less damaging to healthy tissue than current chemotherapy.
In 2024, researchers at the Karolinska Institutet in Sweden used “DNA origami” to create a configuration of peptides lethal to cells, and then they built a nanostructure to smuggle it into tumors. Lead scientist, Professor Björn Högberg, summarized, “This means that we have created a type of nanorobot that can specifically target and kill cancer cells.” Like its Korean predecessor, the nanorobot’s weapon was triggered by the acidic environment surrounding cancer to prevent damage to healthy tissue. The nanorobot effectively destroyed malignant tumors in mice. Högberg says their goal now is to test it on more advanced forms of cancer and to determine if there are any side effects before testing on humans. (3)
A number of recent advances have been made by researchers in Barcelona. One team used nanobots to treat bladder cancer in mice. They were able to reduce tumor size by 90%. (4) Another group of scientists is using “snot-bots” to treat mucous-secreting tumors. (5) There are numerous conditions in which a mucosal barrier blocks therapeutic intervention. “Snot-bots,” or “MucOncoBots,” are designed to carry drugs through this layer to improve efficacy. Although they’re being studied in peritoneal pseudomyxoma (PMP), it’s projected that the technology can be applied to other conditions in which mucous hinders treatment. This includes some colorectal and lung tumors, as well as conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and cystic fibrosis. (6)
Research is ongoing around the world. A number of studies have been conducted, though the results have not yet been reported. In the U.S., nanobots were used to treat lung and pancreatic cancer. In Egypt, they were used for post-operative pain in children treated for rectal cancer. In France, they were administered as part of glioblastoma treatment. (7)
Researchers expect nanobots to play a large role in the future of cancer diagnosis and treatment. At present, there are still many barriers to widespread use, such as cost and long-term safety concerns. (8)
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