There are several different types of Nanobots that vary in use and capabilities, across a spectrum of microsurgery, imitating blood cells, hunting and destroying malignant cells, feeding medication, detecting and monitoring the disease. Below are some of the Nanobots currently used in health services around the world.
Nanobots bring with them numerous ethical concerns, particularly in the area of data retrieval and the control of drugs released into the human body. However, the pros lie in the future potential to treat certain diseases like cancer and heart disease and to perform microsurgery, a breakthrough in medical science.
Below are some of the current applications of the technology...
The PillCam is an ingestible camera that’s been around since 2001 and was the first FDA approved Nanobot. To date, it’s been used in over 2 million procedures.
The Vibrant Capsule vibrates to promote muscle contraction and assists with digestion. It can treat constipation without laxatives.
The Dose Tracking Pill has sensors that relay data to a patch that is worn by the patient. It has an app where information, such as drug dosage and times, can then be shared with doctors.
Atmo Gas Capsule has a permeable surface that allows gasses to enter the capsule. Data can then be collected relating to oxygen, hydrogen and CO2 levels. This is invaluable to doctors and scientists in their research of the human gut.
MIT's’ Smart Sensor Capsule is an unfolding Nanobot that lodges itself in the stomach and stays there for a month. It features an automatic drug release mechanism for patients who are on a strict medication regime.