Untethered micro- and nano-robots
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Untethered, miniaturized robotic devices enable us to perform minimally invasive operations in complex 3D microenvironments. These remotely actuated operations can investigate and manipulate biological systems in an on-demand, flexible way. A variety of simple micromachines have recently been developed including microstructures controlled by oscillating magnetic fields, helical swimmers demonstrating corkscrew motion, thermally or magnetically actuated microgrippers, self‐propelled micromotors, and electrostatic impact‐driven microactuators. These machines can interact with objects both through physical contact and fluid flow generated around the body. The diagnostic and therapeutic potential of robotics in these microbiological contexts can be greatly enhanced with the development of compound micromachines that have multiple mechanisms working together to perform complicated tasks, such as the transport and release of therapeutic agents.