Towards intelligent and miniaturized drug delivery devices.

Nature
Authors
Abstract

Advances at the intersection of biotechnology, artificial intelligence, electronics and materials science are reshaping how drugs can be delivered inside the body. Intelligent and miniaturized drug delivery devices (IMDDDs) leverage these technologies to achieve precise pharmacokinetics, targeted distribution and programmable release while minimizing toxicity and improving patient adherence. Unlike conventional approaches, IMDDDs can incorporate real-time sensing and adaptive control, enabling drug administration that is more precise and more responsive to dynamic physiological conditions. In this Review, we outline key categories and design principles, highlight artificial intelligence technologies for augmenting performance, discuss potential clinical applications across cancer, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, vaccination and beyond, and examine translation challenges and opportunities. By uniting engineering innovation with medical need, IMDDDs exemplify the next generation of drug delivery technologies.

Year of Publication
2026
Journal
Nature
Volume
651
Issue
8107
Pages
897-908
Date Published
03/2026
ISSN
1476-4687
DOI
10.1038/s41586-026-10221-3
PubMed ID
41882132
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