Micro/Nanorobotics: Propulsion and biosensors

Self-propelled and externally influenced micro/nanorobotic devices reported represent promising results for environmental, security and biomedical applications. Recent research focuses on novel fabrication methods to improve the mobility and sensing capabilities for micro/nanorobots. The ability to detect, capture, transport and treat specific targets such as cancer cells, nucleic acids and proteins prove these devices are useful in the emerging interdisciplinary area of nanomedicine. Surface functionalization is a crucial factor in the development of micro/nanorobotic biosensors, along with it the ability to propel in various aqueous media. In this article, we reviewed various propulsion, surface functionalization and biosensor methods reported in literature for targeted applications in nanomedicine.