Smart Capsule for non-invasive targeted sampling and delivery in the gut

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We have developed a prototype magnetically-actuated capsule which can take samples wirelessly on demand from within the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. This capsule has a sample chamber and is activated wirelessly using a safe low-strength magnetic field. The operation is simpler than other robotic capsule endoscopes and does not rely on complex control systems or mechanisms but instead has a simple operation using a permanent magnet outside the body to activate the capsule. Following ingestion, the capsule position is tracked and once it reaches the location of interest within the small intestine, it is briefly opened using the magnetic field to collect a sample. After the field is removed, the capsule naturally closes and seals tightly, to be excreted for collection and sample analysis.We have shown that this capsule has robust sealing and reliable sampling activation, which we have tested in both laboratory and in-vivo field conditions. In initial animal trials, we have shown the device can be wirelessly activated within the stomach of live pigs. In this one-year I2I Phase I project, we aim to build on these discoveries to address two key challenges to the successful commercialization of our device. 1) We will refine our protocol and conduct two sets of live dog trials (each with 3 dogs) to prove the capsule can be used to sample/delivery anywhere within the GI tract. 2) Developing Next Generation Capsule with Localization Capability. For many use cases, the location of the capsule must be known prior to activation. While medical imaging (ultrasound, X-Ray fluoroscopy) can observe the capsule, we have developed a prototype magnetic localization method which takes advantage of the magnets already integrated into the capsule. The patient would wear a vest of magnetic sensors which will be used to calculate the position of the capsule within the body to an accuracy of less than 2 cm.