A pangolin-inspired, small medical robot could revolutionise invasive medical procedures. 

International experts are optimistic that a new generation of soft robots, which mimic the flexibility and unobstructed motion of pangolins, could navigate hard-to-reach areas of the body, such as the stomach and small intestine.

Previous attempts at creating minimally invasive robots have been limited by their use of magnetic or solid metal components. 

However, pangolins' ability to move flexibly despite their rigid scales inspired Metin Sitti and his team to design a milli-robot measuring just 1 cm by 2 cm by 0.2 mm. 

Emulating the overlapping scale structure of pangolins, the robot exhibits shape-morphing and rolling capabilities. 

Furthermore, the robot can heat itself to a precise temperature and conduct medical procedures, as demonstrated in lab experiments.

The pangolin-inspired robot's potential applications include hyperthermia for cancer treatment and addressing bleeding in challenging anatomical locations. 

In addition, the robot can demagnetise and release cargo, offering future possibilities for drug delivery.

Although further testing is required, this innovative technology holds promise as a valuable clinical tool for targeted therapeutic delivery and heat therapy applications. 

The development of these tiny medical robots marks a significant step toward achieving less invasive and more precise medical interventions.

More details are accessible here.