Got a clog? Here comes a microscopic cleaning crew!
This is Sandra Tsing Loh with the Loh Down on Science.
Surgical implants for urinary problems can build up gunk over time. That buildup causes painful blockages and dangerous infections.
The current fix? Replace the implant. OUCH! Not only is it uncomfortable, but drives healthcare costs sky-high.
Enter Pedro Amado and team at Northwestern University. They designed tiny brushes built right into the walls of the implants.
When triggered by ultrasound, these brushes sweep away buildup in seconds. The best part? It’s safe for human cells!
This means fewer surgeries, fewer infections, and better care for patients.
Tiny brushes, mighty results! Ah… I can ride a bike again!
Reference: Amado, P., Dillinger, C., Bahou, C., Hashemi Gheinani, A., Obrist, D., Burkhard, F., Ahmed, D., & Clavica, F. (2025). Ultrasound-activated cilia for biofilm control in indwelling medical devices. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 122(18). https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.2418938122