Overview
- A Science paper details spherical, magnetically guided capsules that remain visible under X-ray for real-time control through complex vasculature.
- Researchers combined rotating-field rolling, magnetic-gradient pulling, and in-flow guidance to steer through varied blood-flow speeds and vessel junctions.
- In pig studies, the system delivered medication to targeted sites in more than 95% of trials, with an additional demonstration in a sheep’s cerebrospinal fluid.
- A specialized catheter with an internal guidewire and polymer gripper releases the capsule, which dissolves to release its drug when magnetic heating is applied.
- Silicone vessel models used to refine navigation are now commercialized, and the team says its next goal is to initiate human clinical trials.