Researchers at Robeauté, a Paris-based startup, are on the cusp of a potential breakthrough in neurosurgery, having developed a pioneering microrobot capable of navigating the human brain. This advancement could change the landscape of diagnosing and treating neurological conditions. The company recently raised €27.2 million (£23 million) to expedite its research and bring the technology to human trials next year.
The innovation is touted by investors as revolutionary, with the potential to transform brain treatment practices much like the advent of the endoscope did for gastrointestinal medicine. Currently, neurosurgical procedures hinge on traditional methods that involve the use of rigid instruments that traverse the brain in straight lines, which can be detrimental and invasive.
The microrobots, each the size of a grain of rice, are designed to be introduced into the brain through a minuscule burr hole measuring just 3mm in diameter. Unlike conventional tools, these robots are capable of navigating the brain’s extracellular matrix, moving along curved paths to access areas that are typically difficult to reach.
Speaking to The Independent, Joana Cartocci, the company’s co-founder and chief operating officer, stated, “This means the microbots will be less damaging and invasive than existing tools like neurosurgical needles or electrodes.” The microrobots are equipped with a miniature engine that allows them to glide through brain tissue, following a route established by a neurosurgeon which can be monitored in real time.
Robeauté's approach has already seen success in preclinical trials, where the microrobots have served as effective biopsy tools for tumour extraction. In addition to their biopsy capabilities, these robots are also engineered to deliver therapeutic molecules, implant electrodes, and gather critical data samples. The versatility of the robots allows them to carry additional extensions tailored to specific tasks such as diagnosing, treating, and monitoring disease.
Ms Cartocci elaborated on the significance of their work, stating, “Though biopsy will not directly treat the patient, the information collected remains critical to define the best course of treatment. Then, we’ll go back to deliver the therapy that will be more effective in addressing the disease to treat patients.”
The startup's strategic vision includes collaboration with regulatory authorities to facilitate the introduction of the microrobots into neurosurgical operating rooms. Bertrand Duplat, co-founder and CEO of Robeauté, remarked on the untapped potential of this technology: “There is unexplored potential for microrobots in medicine. We’re creating microrobots that will bring unparalleled access to the brain with personalised, precision medicine that can transform treatments and patient outcomes.”
Should the upcoming human trials yield positive results, Robeauté aims to secure regulatory approval for the drug delivery capabilities of their microrobot by the year 2030, potentially marking a new era in the field of neurosurgery and patient care.
Source: Noah Wire Services