The innovative sticker was developed by a team including bioengineers from Harvard-MIT, led by Robert Lange and Professor Jeffrey Kapp, along with researchers from Boston Hospital. Inspired by the gecko’s foot, which has millions of tiny, flexible nanopillars that provide strong adhesion, the technology mimics nature's design. This approach is similar to a "superglue" developed by Northwestern University in 2007, also inspired by geckos and mussels. The new adhesive uses nano-scale cylinders and chemical adhesives, forming a biodegradable elastomer that can carry drugs and be tailored for different tissues.

Compared to traditional sutures, this adhesive offers several advantages. It eliminates the need for stitches, reduces surgical time, and is easier to apply, especially in hard-to-reach areas during laparoscopic procedures. In gastric bypass surgery, the patch can deliver antibiotics and healing agents directly to the site. Additionally, it can function as a simple drug patch, even on highly dynamic tissues such as the heart.

When treating heart damage, doctors often inject growth factors to stimulate tissue repair, but this process involves invasive procedures. The new elastic patch, however, can release these factors safely without piercing the heart, significantly lowering the risk for patients. The material can be customized to match the mechanical properties and degradation rates of various body tissues.

Researchers are now working closely with medical professionals to identify the most beneficial applications for the sticker and to develop specialized versions for specific treatments. This advancement could revolutionize wound care, organ repair, and targeted drug delivery in the future. ——Shanghai Medical Device Industry Association

3-Part Hematology Analyzer

Bioantibody Biotechnology Co., Ltd. , https://www.bioantibodymedical.com