Microelectrode and microchannel integrated micro-robotic arm for bacteria sensing and on-demand drug delivery

Abstract

Traditional methods such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR) face significant limitations in identifying unknown bacterial targets and in the detection of live multi-strain bacterial coinfections. These methods often fail to offer real-time solutions and precise treatments for diverse bacterial communities present in situ. To address these challenges, we introduce a novel micro-robotic arm system equipped with an integrated sensing electrode and a microchannel. This system combines a scanning electrochemical probe and a microfluidic channel to enable simultaneous biosensing and on-demand drug delivery. The dual functionality of this device successfully addresses the limitations of traditional bacterial identification methods by providing real-time detection and treatment capabilities. Specifically, the technology monitors oxygen levels to detect aerobic bacterial contamination and initiates immediate drug delivery upon detection. The efficacy of this approach was validated using porcine eyeballs, artificial wound samples, and fabric gauzes. The results demonstrate accurate identification of aerobic bacteria and effective pinpointed treatment with a hydrogel-based therapeutic. This innovative method, merging electrochemical sensing with precise drug delivery, presents a significant advancement in managing multi-strain bacterial coinfections, offering a groundbreaking solution to a persistent clinical challenge.