Instead of Traditional Endoscopes: Scientists Test Snake-Like Robot to Explore the Small Intestine

In preclinical tests, the device traveled approximately 1.8 meters through the intestine in 11 minutes, providing imaging, tissue sampling, and localized fluid delivery.

The technology could eventually make it easier to diagnose inflammatory bowel disease, internal bleeding, and tumors.

The robot, named BIOSENTER, was developed with the involvement of Binbin Ying, an associate professor of biomedical engineering and internal medicine at UT Southwestern Medical Center. The findings were published in the journal Science Robotics.

The human small intestine is approximately six meters long and contains numerous bends and curves. Its inner surface is lined with mucous membrane, making it difficult to navigate the organ while simultaneously performing medical procedures. Existing double-balloon enteroscopes can examine hard-to-reach areas, but they require specialized physician training, are difficult to operate, and carry certain risks. In addition, the procedures are time-consuming, limiting the number of patients who can be examined each day.

BIOSENTER combines a flexible body, controlled movement, and specialized structures inspired by the scaly skin of snakes and the Japanese art of kirigami, which involves creating three-dimensional shapes by cutting and folding paper. Inside the device are Kevlar-reinforced inflatable chambers. When air is pumped into them, they allow the robot's body to extend and bend, mimicking the movements of a snake's muscles.

The robot's head and tail are equipped with polymer sleeves featuring tiny protrusions. When expanded, these structures help the device grip the intestinal lining and move forward without requiring the degree of intestinal stretching associated with conventional balloon-based systems. A central channel can accommodate instruments for imaging, biopsy, and the delivery of therapeutic substances.

The team is currently refining the design using artificial intelligence, aiming to optimize the structure of the sleeves and improve the robot's movement. Ultimately, the researchers hope to develop systems capable of navigating the intestine autonomously.

However, clinical trials in humans are still a long way off. Researchers must first assess the device's safety in longer sections of the intestine, evaluate its ease of use, and directly compare its performance with existing enteroscopy methods. If the technology proves its advantages, it could simplify examinations of the small intestine and expand patients' access to essential diagnostic procedures.