Light‑Activated Nanobots for Breast Cancer
Scientists from the Institute of Nano Science and Technology (INST), an autonomous body of the Department of Science and Technology (DST), have created a fuel‑free nanobot that moves under Near‑infrared (NIR) light and delivers combined photothermal and photodynamic treatment to breast tumours.
Key Developments
- Design of UCNP‑based nanobots that convert 980 nm NIR laser energy into heat.
- Functionalisation with a photosensitiser to generate ROS on NIR exposure.
- Surface coating with folic acid for selective binding to breast‑cancer cells.
- Demonstration of phototaxis that drives the bots toward the laser spot.
- Successful tumour reduction in cell cultures and in mice bearing breast tumours.
Important Facts
The nanobots work without any chemical fuel. When a 980 nm NIR laser shines on them, polydopamine on the surface creates a temperature gradient, causing thermally driven motion toward the light source. The same light triggers photothermal therapy and photodynamic therapy simultaneously, leading to higher tumour inhibition than either method alone. The research is published in ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces (DOI: 10.1021/acsami.5c20372).
Exam Relevance
This development illustrates the role of nanobots in precision medicine, a priority under India’s National Health Policy 2025. Understanding such technologies helps answer GS4 questions on emerging health‑care innovations, biotechnology, and the interface of science with public health. It also links to GS3 topics on research funding, as the project is supported by DST and BARC.
Way Forward
Further work should focus on:
- Scaling up production while maintaining uniform size and functionality.
- Testing long‑term safety and clearance pathways in larger animal models.
- Integrating real‑time imaging to monitor nanobot navigation during therapy.
- Exploring similar platforms for other cancers that over‑express folate receptors.
Policy makers can facilitate clinical translation by strengthening regulatory frameworks for nanomedicines and encouraging public‑private partnerships.