/sci/ - Science & Math

> "Microbivore" is the name given to a speculative future micromachine containing numerous nanomachine systems, which function together as an artificial phagocyte (white blood cell.) A fleet of microbivores could be injected into a person and act as a supplement or even a complete replacement for their immune system. The microbivore concept was invented by Robert A. Freitas Jr., who has outlined their design in great detail. At present (2010) we lack the "atom-by-atom" molecular manufacturing technology required to construct such a device. Some futurists expect the dream of molecular nanotechnology (first concieved by Dr. Eric Drexler) to become a reality sometime next decade, (2020-2030) enabling a massive leap forward in our construction capabilities.

> Numerous pathologies exist that are caused by the presence of foreign organisms in the bloodstream. Infection by foreign blood-borne organisms is especially dangerous in individuals with compromised immune systems (such as those suffering from AIDS.) Current methods to control such organisms are largely ineffectual, or merely temporarily arrest their growth rather than wiping them out entirely. Most physicians would welcome the addition of syntheitc nanorobots capable of selectively annihilating such organisms.

>"Microbivore" is the name given to a speculative future micromachine containing numerous nanomachine systems, which function together as an artificial phagocyte (white blood cell.) A fleet of microbivores could be injected into a person and act as a supplement or even a complete replacement for their immune system. The microbivore concept was invented by Robert A. Freitas Jr., who has outlined their design in great detail. At present (2010) we lack the "atom-by-atom" molecular manufacturing technology required to construct such a device. Some futurists expect the dream of molecular nanotechnology (first concieved by Dr. Eric Drexler) to become a reality sometime next decade, (2020-2030) enabling a massive leap forward in our construction capabilities.

> Numerous pathologies exist that are caused by the presence of foreign organisms in the bloodstream. Infection by foreign blood-borne organisms is especially dangerous in individuals with compromised immune systems (such as those suffering from AIDS.) Current methods to control such organisms are largely ineffectual, or merely temporarily arrest their growth rather than wiping them out entirely. Most physicians would welcome the addition of syntheitc nanorobots capable of selectively annihilating such organisms.