Smart Capsule
Researchers at Purdue University have developed a smart capsule for location-specific drug release in the gastrointestinal tract. Once activated through a magnetic proximity fuse, the capsule opens and releases its powdered payload in a location specified by an implanted miniature magnetic marker or an externally worn larger magnet. The capsule (9 mm x 26 mm) has two compartments, one contains a charged capacitor and a reed switch, while the other houses the drug reservoir capped by a taut nylon thread intertwined with a nichrome wire. The nichrome wire is connected to the capacitor through the reed switch. The capacitor is charged to 2.7V before ingestion, and once within the proximity of the permanent magnet, the reed switch closes, discharging the capacitor through the nichrome wire, melting the nylon thread, detaching the cap, and emptying the drug reservoir.
Enables targeted delivery of drugs to a specific location in GI track Patient does not have to be in a hospital or clinic to use Preferred capsule size (9 mm x 26 mm)
Medical/HealthcareMedical testingPharmaceutical industrySupplement industry
Babak ZiaieZiaie Biomedical Microdevices LaboratoryPurdue Electrical and Computer Engineering
United States
None
USA
