Tiny magnetic ‘robot’ could help dissolve kidney stones faster with less pain
SMRTR summary
Scientists at the University of Waterloo have developed a 12-millimeter magnetic robot that could revolutionize kidney stone treatment. The filament contains urease, an enzyme that dissolves stones, and can be magnetically steered through the urinary tract. When near a kidney stone, it releases urease, raising pH levels to dissolve stones more effectively. Lab tests showed it dissolved 30% of stone mass over five days, potentially providing faster relief than oral medications and reducing the need for surgery in many cases.
SMRTR provides this summary for quick context. The original article belongs to Interesting Engineering.
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