Acrylic-Resin-Based Tubular Micromotors Bearing Magnetic Nanoparticles and Enzymes Driven by Visible Light Irradiation: Implications for Accelerating Reactions and Cargo Transport

We present the synthesis of acrylic-resin-based tubular micromotors incorporating layers of magnetite nanoparticles (MNPs) and catalase (Cat) on the inner pore surface (Cat tube micromotors) and investigate their distinctive self-propulsion capabilities modulated by visible light irradiation. In an aqueous H2O2 solution, the Cat tubes demonstrate autonomous movement by expelling O2 bubbles from their opening ends. The propulsion velocity reaches its maximum at the optimal pH and temperature for the Cat enzyme activity. Remarkably, the swimming velocity undergoes rapid acceleration upon exposure to visible light and promptly decelerates upon the cessation of illumination. This phenomenon is ascribed to the photothermal effect induced by the MNPs, elevating the temperature of the adjacent Cat layer and thereby enhancing enzyme activity. The micromotors exhibit recurrent acceleration and deceleration in response to on/off light irradiation, showcasing a high degree of sensitivity and responsiveness.