Nanobots: real or sci-fi?
Science fiction pictures tiny robots swimming through your blood, repairing cells. Here is what has actually been built at the smallest scales, how far each has got, and what would have to happen next.
4 tracked
What has really been built
Furthest along first. None has reached people yet: the most advanced have been tested in animals.
- DNA nanorobots for cancerStep 2 · PrototypeA sheet of DNA origami rolled into a tube carries a blood-clotting enzyme.
- Magnetic microrobots for drug deliveryStep 2 · PrototypeA tiny gel capsule loaded with medicine and iron oxide nanoparticles is steered through blood vessels with magnets.
- DNA origamiStep 1 · LabDNA origami folds a long strand of DNA into chosen shapes and patterns a few nanometers in size, held in place by short DNA strands, like a pegboard on which other molecules can be placed exactly.
- Molecular machines and motorsStep 1 · LabChemists can build single molecules with parts that move relative to each other when energy is added: rings that slide along rods, and motors that spin in one direction.
“In terms of development, the molecular motor is at the same stage as the electric motor was in the 1830s.”
What would change it
The next step for each
No forecasts. This is what our rules need to see before each one moves up a step.
- DNA nanorobots
To reach step 3, real-world testing: Tested in people, in the field, or with named customers.
- Microrobots
To reach step 3, real-world testing: Tested in people, in the field, or with named customers.
- DNA origami
To reach step 2, working prototype: Works beyond the first experiment: in animal studies, as a device prototype or on a pilot production line.
- Molecular machines
To reach step 2, working prototype: Works beyond the first experiment: in animal studies, as a device prototype or on a pilot production line.