In a groundbreaking development that could revolutionize drug delivery, researchers have created a bio-inspired adhesive capable of clinging to the stomach lining and releasing medication internally—without invasive procedures. The innovation, inspired by the remarkable sticking power of hitchhiking suckerfish, offers a promising alternative to injections and oral medications that often break down before reaching their target.
A Fishy Inspiration Leads to Medical Innovation
The adhesive, detailed in a study published in Nature, mimics the suction ability of remora fish, which attach themselves to sharks and other marine creatures using a disc covered in soft, fibrous structures. By replicating this mechanism, scientists at MIT and collaborating institutions engineered a biocompatible adhesive that can stick to wet, soft tissues inside the body—a challenge that has long stumped researchers.
"Traditional adhesives either don’t work well in moist environments or can damage delicate tissues," explained Dr. Sarah Chen, lead author of the study. "Our design overcomes both hurdles, offering a gentle yet secure way to adhere to internal organs like the stomach or intestines."
How It Works
The adhesive consists of a flexible, hydrogel-based disc embedded with tiny, mushroom-shaped microstructures that create strong suction on contact with tissue. Once attached, it can slowly release drugs over several hours or even days, ensuring precise delivery where it’s needed most.
In animal trials, the patch successfully adhered to the stomach lining and delivered ulcer medication with far greater efficiency than oral pills, which often dissolve prematurely in digestive acids. The adhesive harmlessly detached after completing its task, passing safely through the digestive system.
Potential Applications Beyond Drug Delivery
Beyond pharmaceuticals, the technology could aid in wound sealing, surgical procedures, and even diagnostic monitoring. "Imagine a small patch that can collect tissue samples or monitor gut health without endoscopy," said Dr. James Park, a biomedical engineer at MIT not involved in the study.
MIT’s official news release highlights how the team optimized the adhesive for different medical scenarios, including potential use in minimally invasive surgeries.
What’s Next?
Human trials are expected within the next two years. If successful, the adhesive could transform treatments for gastrointestinal diseases, chronic pain, and even cancer therapy—reducing side effects by targeting drugs more effectively.
For now, the research stands as a testament to nature’s ingenuity, proving once again that some of the best solutions come from observing the world around us.
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