UC San Diego engineers created a pill with micro robots releasing nanoparticles for inflammation-fighting in mice's colons, showing potential for drug-free IBD treatment without toxic side effects.

Engineers at UC San Diego have developed a pill containing microscopic robots that release inflammation-fighting nanoparticles into the colon, providing a potential drug-free treatment for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) in mice. The experimental treatment significantly reduced IBD symptoms and promoted healing of damaged colon tissue without causing toxic side effects. The pill's micro robots are packed inside a liquid capsule that dissolves in the neutral environment of the colon, ensuring selective release at the target site.