Tiny microbot inserted in eyes can deliver medicine to treat AMD

Researchers are testing a new system which would deliver drugs to the eyes via tiny microbot inserted into the eyes of patients suffering from wet age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Currently, patients are subjected to frequent injections into the affected eye to treat the condition. This new device can be inserted into the eye with a needle and then maneuvered to the desired location with a electromagnetic system. The microbot can remain in the eye for months which would allow for extended and targeted drug release. In addition, it can used to put into place a biodegradable drug capsule in the eye and then removed with a magnetic needle. While researchers have only tested the device in the eyes taken from pig cadavers, trials using living animals are planned to start soon. Macular degeneration is a leading cause of vision loss in the elderly and this new device could provide hope for the thousands suffering from the condition.* Elise Ervin Staff Writer