Systems and methods for providing wireless communication between bio-nanoelements inside or on the body and macro / micro devices outside or inside the body

Abstract

The present invention is a system for receiving data from nanoelements (300) inside or on the body. Accordingly, the system comprises a molecular communication unit (100) including an antenna (110) attached to or on the body for transmitting data from inside to outside the body, and an antenna body (111) configured to change and reflect an electromagnetic signal when exposed to the antenna (110), the antenna body (111) including a reshapeable portion (112) made of a material that changes shape when exposed to a factor inside or on the body. The present invention is also a system for sending data to nanoelements (300).

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a system for providing data exchange between nanoelements provided inside or on the body surface and macro / microelements provided outside or inside the body, and for providing data transmission from a molecular nanocommunication network to a body area network, as well as to a method for applying said system. [Background technology]

[0002] Nanoelements present in the body, such as nanomachines, nanodrugs, and bacteria, communicate with each other through messenger molecules.

[0003] In an EPO application having application number EP 1850513, nanomachines that communicate with each other by molecules are described.

[0004] To instantaneously track events within the body, nanoelements must be able to communicate with devices located outside the body. Communication between devices outside the body and nanoelements within the body can be used for diagnostic, therapeutic, and sensing purposes. Current technology includes agent devices that contain nanosensors and transmit data received from the nanosensors to an external communication unit outside the body (e.g., a body area network (BAN)).

[0005] In the non-patent document "Applications of molecular communications to medicine: A survey" by L. Felicetti et al., Nano Communication Networks 7 (2016), pp. 27-45, a method is described that includes a nanosensor that senses messenger molecules used by the nanoelement to provide data exchange between the nanoelement in the blood vessel and a communication unit outside the body, a processor that processes data acquired from the nanosensor, and a prop inserted into the blood vessel to receive data from the processor. However, this method is not suitable for communicating with the nanoelement, and furthermore, when data is to be acquired, a prop must be inserted into the blood vessel.

[0006] As a result, all of the above problems call for improvements in the related art. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0007] [Patent Document 1] European Patent No. 1850513 [Non-patent literature]

[0008] [Non-Patent Document 1] L. Felicetti et al., "Applications of molecular communications to medicine: A survey", Nano Communication Networks 7 (2016), pp. 27-45 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0009] The present invention relates to a communication system and method to eliminate the above-mentioned drawbacks and to bring new advantages to the related art.

[0010] It is an object of the present invention to provide a system and method for providing communication between nanoelements inside or on the body and micro / macro electronic devices outside or inside the body.

[0011] Another object of the present invention is to provide a system and method that provides communication between nanoelements inside or on the body and micro / macro electronic devices outside or inside the body without requiring a power source inside or on the body.

[0012] Another object of the present invention is to provide a system and method that provides wireless communication between nanoelements inside or on the body and micro / macro electronic devices outside or inside the body.

[0013] Another object of the present invention is to provide a system and method in which a communication element placed inside the body for communication does not need to be surgically removed from the body after communication has been completed.

[0014] Another object of the present invention is to provide a system and method that reduces harm to the body caused by communication elements placed inside or on the body for communication purposes.

[0015] Another object of the present invention is to provide systems and methods for communicating with nanoelements within or on the body to provide diagnostics and therapy. [Means for solving the problem]

[0016] To achieve the above objectives and those that will be inferred from the following detailed description, the present invention is a system for receiving data from nanoelements within or on the body. Accordingly, the improvement comprises a molecular communication unit including an antenna mounted within or on the body for transmitting data from within the body or through the body to the outside, the antenna comprising an antenna body configured to deform and reflect electromagnetic signals to which it is exposed, the antenna body comprising a reshapeable portion made of a material that changes its shape when exposed to factors within or on the body. As the antenna changes shape, its resonant frequency changes, which can be sensed by a separate communication unit to transmit data from within the body or through the body to the outside. Because a passive antenna is used and the antenna exhibits changes according to factors within the body, no power source, cables, props, etc. are required.

[0017] In another preferred embodiment of the present invention, another communication unit is provided, comprising a receiver / transmitter for transmitting electromagnetic signals to an antenna and receiving the electromagnetic signals reflected by the antenna, and a processor unit configured to control the transmission of electromagnetic signals by the receiver / transmitter to the antenna and to receive the electromagnetic signals received from the receiver / transmitter, wherein the processor unit is configured to determine whether the body is exposed to a factor from an area in or on the body according to at least one characteristic property of the electromagnetic signals received from the antenna. Thus, shape changes in the antenna can be detected and data sent by the nanoelements can be obtained without the need for power sources, cables or props in the body or on the area.

[0018] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the entire antenna body is a reshapeable portion.

[0019] In another preferred embodiment of the present invention, the material that changes shape when exposed to a factor in or on the body is a biodegradable material, so that the antenna can be biodegraded in and removed from the body without the need for surgery.

[0020] In another preferred embodiment of the present invention, the material capable of changing its shape when exposed to a factor on the body surface is preferably provided in an embodiment similar to a biodegradable container, sheath, or the like.

[0021] In another preferred embodiment of the present invention, a biofilm is provided that at least partially encases the reshapeable portion.

[0022] In another preferred embodiment of the present invention, the reshapeable portion comprises a material that exhibits an increased rate of biodegradation when exposed to a first substance.

[0023] In another preferred embodiment of the present invention, the system comprises a genetically modified microorganism for producing a biofilm that produces said first substance when exposed to messenger molecules, such that when the messenger molecules contact the biofilm from the nanoelement, the genetically modified microorganism produces the first substance and biodegrades the reshapeable portion.

[0024] In another preferred embodiment of the present invention, the messenger molecule is a quorum sensing molecule associated with bacterial infection, and the genetically modified microorganism is an E. coli strain that produces acidic acid as a first substance when exposed to the quorum sensing molecule. Thus, the system can be used for diagnosis and related data can be sent outside the body in case of bacterial infection.

[0025] In another preferred embodiment of the present invention, the biodegradable material is selected from biomaterials suitable for use in or on the body, preferably selected from magnesium, iron and bilayer zinc / iron.

[0026] In another preferred embodiment of the present invention, at least one substrate is provided to at least partially encase the antenna in order to slow down the rate of degradation of the reshapeable portion, thus increasing the period of time that the antenna is desired to remain in the body under operating conditions.

[0027] In another preferred embodiment of the present invention, the substrate comprises a biodegradable material.

[0028] In another preferred embodiment of the present invention, the substrate preferably comprises at least one of polyglycerol sebacate, polyoctamethylene meleate (anhydrite) citrate, polylactic acid, and poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid).

[0029] In another preferred embodiment of the present invention, in order to adjust the biodegradation rate of said substrate, the coating thickness is selected from one of the predetermined thicknesses according to the target degradation rate.

[0030] In another preferred embodiment of the present invention, two substrates are provided to encase the antenna between them during use in the body, thus allowing the entire molecular communication unit to degrade in the body, eliminating the need for its surgical removal.

[0031] In another preferred embodiment of the present invention, the reshapeable portion is configured to bend when exposed to a force exceeding a predetermined threshold.

[0032] In another preferred embodiment of the present invention, a genetically modified tissue associated with a reshapeable portion is provided that provides deformation of the reshapeable portion by distorting when exposed to messenger molecules and by applying a force to the reshapeable portion.

[0033] In another preferred embodiment of the present invention, the genetically modified tissue is muscle tissue, thus allowing the antenna to deform without the need for external energy.

[0034] In another preferred embodiment of the present invention, the further communication unit comprises a memory unit provided in association with the processor unit to enable data to be read by the processor unit, the processor unit being configured to determine whether the antenna is exposed to a factor in or on the area of ​​the body according to deviations of a characteristic property of a signal received from the antenna from at least one characteristic property present in the memory unit.

[0035] In another preferred embodiment of the invention, the characteristic property is a frequency, so that deviations of the antenna in its resonant frequency are detected to detect whether messenger molecules are acquired or not.

[0036] In another preferred embodiment of the present invention, the separate external communication unit comprises an input / output unit that causes the processor to provide an output related to exposure of the antenna to factors of an area within or on the body.

[0037] In another preferred embodiment of the present invention, the separate external communication unit comprises a device body, said device body being placed inside or on the body.

[0038] In another preferred embodiment of the present invention, the antenna body includes a first portion, a second portion connected to the first portion by a first reshapeable portion, and a third portion connected to the second portion by a second reshapeable portion.

[0039] In another preferred embodiment of the present invention, the first reshapeable portion and the second reshapeable portion are made of biodegradable materials that degrade when exposed to different factors.

[0040] In another preferred embodiment of the present invention, the first reshapeable portion and the second reshapeable portion are coated with substrates having different biodegradation rates or coated with the same biodegradable material but with different thicknesses, different portions of the antenna respond to different messenger molecules, and signals received from the antenna are examined to receive data regarding which messenger molecules are acquired, thereby increasing the data transmission bandwidth.

[0041] The present invention is further a method for receiving data from nanoelements in an area within or on the body. Accordingly, the improvement is a method comprising: a processor unit transmitting an interrogation signal to an antenna having an antenna body configured to reflect an electromagnetic signal when exposed to the electromagnetic signal by a receiver / transmitter, and a reshapeable portion made of a material that allows the antenna body to change shape when exposed to a factor in an area inside or on the body; receiving, by the processor unit, a response signal and an interrogation signal reflected by an antenna, by the receiver / transmitter; and a step in which the processor unit determines whether the antenna is exposed to a factor of an area inside or on the body according to a deviation of a characteristic characteristic of the received response signal from a predetermined reference characteristic characteristic.

[0042] The present invention is further a system for transmitting data to nanoelements that communicate with messenger molecules in an area inside or on the body. Accordingly, an improvement of the system of the present invention is that an external communication unit is provided to be attached to an area inside or on the body, the external communication unit having an antenna configured to generate heat when exposed to an electromagnetic signal, and the biofilm contains genetically modified microorganisms that are associated with the antenna and that generate messenger molecules when a predetermined temperature level is reached.

[0043] In another preferred embodiment of the present invention, an external communication unit is provided, the external communication unit having a receiver / transmitter for transmitting an electromagnetic signal to an antenna and receiving the electromagnetic signal reflected by the antenna, and a processor unit configured to control the transmission of the electromagnetic signal to the antenna by the receiver / transmitter, wherein when data is sent to the nanoelement, the processor unit is configured to detect a resonant frequency of the antenna according to a response signal of the antenna reflected in response to the interrogation signal sent by the receiver / transmitter, and to transmit an electromagnetic heating signal to the antenna in a continuous and monolithic manner at the detected resonant frequency, thus providing data transmission from the micro / macro device to the nanoelement inside the body.

[0044] In another preferred embodiment of the present invention, the antenna is made of a biodegradable material whose rate of biodegradation increases with increasing temperature, and the processor unit is configured to receive a responsive heating signal in the form of a reflected version of the heating signal and to stop the heating process if it detects that the characteristic property of the responsive heating signal deviates from a predetermined reference characteristic property by a predetermined amount, thus stopping the heating process when data transmission is completed.

[0045] The present invention is further a method for transmitting data to nanoelements that communicate with messenger molecules in or on regions of the body. Accordingly, the improvement is a method comprising: a processor unit receiving as input a data transmission command; a processor unit transmitting electromagnetic waves to an antenna that reflects the reflected electromagnetic waves that strike the antenna when the electromagnetic waves strike the antenna by a receiver / transmitter; determining by a processor unit a resonant frequency of the electromagnetic wave reflected by the antenna by the receiver / transmitter; The method includes a step in which the processor unit transmits a continuous and monotonic electromagnetic signal to the antenna at the determined resonant frequency to increase the temperature of a biofilm containing genetically modified microorganisms provided in the vicinity of the antenna and generate messenger molecules when the temperature increases to a predetermined level at the determined resonant frequency.

[0046] In another preferred embodiment of the present invention, information is transmitted from a micro / macro device to molecular communication within or on the body. In this embodiment, there is a biodegradable capsule placed within or on the body. The capsule contains molecules used in molecular communication. When the capsule wall is exposed to an electromagnetic signal sent from outside the body, it decomposes due to an increase in heat, leading to the release of messenger molecules.

[0047] In another preferred embodiment of the present invention, the antenna body is made of a biodegradable material whose decomposition rate increases with increasing temperature, a processor unit receiving a response signal generated by reflecting a continuous, monolithic electromagnetic signal at a resonant frequency off an antenna by a receiver / transmitter; If the processor unit detects that the characteristic property of the response signal deviates from a predetermined reference characteristic property by a predetermined amount, it terminates the transmission of the electromagnetic signal. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0048] [Figure 1] 1 is a representative diagram of a system of the present invention for use within a body. [Figure 2a] 1 is a typical diagram of a system for use inside the body for transmitting data from inside the body to outside the body. [Figure 2b] 1 is an exemplary diagram of a partially biodegraded form of a reshapeable portion of an antenna of a communication unit for use within the body to transmit data from inside the body to outside the body. [Figure 2c] 1 is an exemplary diagram of a partially biodegraded form of a reshapeable portion of an antenna of a communication unit for use within the body to transmit data from inside the body to outside the body. [Figure 3] 1 is a typical diagram of a possible embodiment of a communication unit for use inside the body for transmitting data from inside the body to outside the body and a system including said communication unit. [Figure 4] 1 is a representative diagram of a possible embodiment of a communication unit including a biofilm and a system including said communication unit for use inside the body, transmitting data from inside the body to outside the body. [Figure 5] 1 is a typical diagram of a possible embodiment of a communication unit for use inside the body to transmit data from inside the body to outside the body, said embodiment providing for transmission of data in stages, and a system including said communication unit. [Figure 6] FIG. 1 is an exemplary diagram of a possible embodiment of a communication unit for use within the body to transmit data from within the body to outside the body, said embodiment providing for the transmission of data as modified by genetically modified tissue, and a system including said communication unit. [Figure 7] 1 is a typical diagram of a communication unit for use within a body to transmit data from outside the body to inside the body, the system including said communication unit. [Figure 8] FIG. 2 is a more detailed exemplary diagram of the system of the present invention for use within the body. [Figure 9] FIG. 1 is a typical diagram showing another communication unit connected externally to the human body, with the molecular communication unit being placed inside the body for internal use. [Figure 10] FIG. 1 is a representative diagram of the measurement of the degradation rate of a biodegradable material placed in serum and a biodegradable material placed in serum containing E. coli. [Figure 11]11 is a graph showing the S21 parameter-frequency measurement, including monitoring the biodegradation rate by electromagnetic waves, of the degradation of the material shown in FIG. 10. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0049] In this detailed description, the specification is illustrated with reference to examples only to make the invention more understandable, without forming any limiting effect.

[0050] Referring to FIG. 1, the present invention is a preferred method of the present invention, a molecular communication unit (100), which functions as a gateway for communication between a nanoelement (300) inside the body and another communication unit outside the body, and a system including such a molecular communication unit.

[0051] The nanoelements 300 referred to herein refer to elements that communicate with messenger molecules 310 in the body. The nanoelements 300 may be cells, such as bacteria, or artificial elements, such as nanodrugs or nanomachines. The network formed by the nanoelements 300 communicating with each other is known in the art as a Molecular Nano Communication Network (MNCN).

[0052] Messenger molecules 310 refer to molecules that are produced or received by nanoelements 300. For example, nanoelements 300 may produce messenger molecules 310 to send signals to other nanoelements 300 or other cells. In another example, messenger molecules 310 may be produced when bacteria lead to an infection.

[0053] The system of the present invention basically comprises a molecular communication unit 100 that detects messenger molecules 310 for use inside or outside the body and generates a signal accordingly, a separate communication unit 200 that receives this signal and realizes the portion of communication from an area inside or on the body to the outside, and another communication unit 200 that transmits the signal to the molecular communication unit 100, and the messenger molecules 310 are generated by the molecular communication unit 100, realizing the portion of communication from outside the body to an area inside or on the body. The novel structure of the molecular communication unit 100, the details of which are presented below, provides data transmission from outside the body to inside the body and from inside to outside the body without requiring any power source, such as a battery, within the body.

[0054] 2a shows the structure of a molecular communication unit (100) for transmitting data from nanoelements (300) in an area inside or on the body surface to another communication unit (200) outside the body. In this possible embodiment, the molecular communication unit (100) comprises an antenna having an antenna body (111), which reflects electromagnetic signals according to the electromagnetic signals received by the antenna body. As is known in the art, the antenna body (111) operates similarly to the antenna of a passive RFID tag. In other words, the antenna body (111) is arranged to communicate with back reflections. The antenna body (111) generates a response signal according to the type of electromagnetic signal it is exposed to and its own configuration.

[0055] The antenna body (111) includes a reshapeable portion made of a material that changes shape when at least one portion of the antenna body (111) is exposed to at least one factor within the body. In this possible embodiment of the invention, the entire antenna body (111) includes the reshapeable portion. When the reshapeable portion is exposed to a factor within the body, the shape of the reshapeable portion changes, which changes the electromagnetic signal generated by the antenna, and the antenna indirectly transmits information related to this change, providing a data flow from an area within or on the body to the outside of the body.

[0056] Another communication unit 200 of the system includes a receiver / transmitter 220 for transmitting electromagnetic signals to an antenna and receiving responses reflected by the antenna. The receiver / transmitter 220 operates in a wideband and includes an adjustable antenna (not shown) and other components known in the art for digitizing the electromagnetic waves for distribution and reception. The other communication unit 200 includes a processor unit 210 for controlling the receiver / transmitter 220 and processing the electromagnetic signals received by the receiver / transmitter 220. The other communication unit 200 also includes a memory unit 230 from which the processor unit 210 can read and write data. The other communication unit 200 may further include an input / output unit 240 for providing input data to the processor unit 210 and for transmitting data outward by the processor unit 210. The input / output unit (240) may be a port for a peripheral unit such as a keyboard, a mouse, a screen, etc., and a wireless communication module, etc. In a possible embodiment, the further communication unit (200) is configured to be connected to a body area network (BAN) or other external device (400). In a possible embodiment, the further communication unit (200) comprises a main body, which is provided in the form of a wearable device. The main body may be in the form of a wristband, a watch, etc., and may be placed inside the body.

[0057] During the transmission of data from inside or on the body to outside the body, the separate communication unit (200) functions as follows.

[0058] The processor unit (210) provides for the transmission of an interrogation signal to the antenna (111) via the receiver / transmitter (220). The antenna (111) generates a response signal by reflecting the interrogation signal. The processor unit (210) receives the response signal via the receiver / transmitter (220). The processor unit (210) evaluates a characteristic property of the response signal. The characteristic property may be amplitude, frequency, etc. The processor unit (210) determines that data (e.g., a "1" bit) comes from the antenna if the processor unit (210) detects that the characteristic property of the response signal deviates from a predetermined reference characteristic property, and the processor unit (210) provides for the completion of the process of acquiring data from an area within or on the body.

[0059] More specifically, the processor unit (210) can access a table or graphic (shown as an example in FIG. 11) stored in the memory unit (230) containing the characteristic characteristics of the response signal that is to be or is expected to be transmitted by the antenna with respect to the depth of the antenna or with respect to the time since the antenna was placed under normal conditions. If the characteristic characteristics of the response signal are detected to deviate from said table or graphic, it is detected that the reshapeable portion of the antenna has been deformed or deformed more than expected, and messenger molecules (310) have reached the antenna and data is generated in this regard. Thus, in the body, the communication molecules generated by the nanoelements (300) are sensed and transmitted outside the body, which can be used for purposes such as communication, sensing, diagnosis, etc.

[0060] In this possible embodiment of the invention, the reshapeable portion (112) is made of a biodegradable material. When the reshapeable portion (112) is exposed to a predetermined messenger molecule (310), the rate of biodegradation increases, and therefore the rate of change in the reflected electromagnetic signal during normal biodegradation differs. The body factor can be a messenger molecule (310) produced by a bacterial infection, a thermal change caused by the messenger molecule (310), or a chemical change caused by the messenger molecule (310).

[0061] In Figure 2b an exemplary view of the partially biodegraded form of the reshapeable portion of the antenna body (111) is shown, and in Figure 2c an exemplary view of the greater biodegradation is shown. The electromagnetic signals reflected by the antenna in Figures 2a, 2b and 2c are distinguishably different from one another due to the change in the antenna's form and therefore its resonant frequency.

[0062] 3 shows another possible embodiment of a communication unit for transmitting data from inside the body to outside the body. The communication unit comprises an antenna having an antenna body (111) that reflects electromagnetic signals according to the electromagnetic signals it receives. The antenna body (111) includes a reshapeable portion made of a biodegradable material. The reshapeable portion (112) is made of a biodegradable material or a material that increases the rate of biodegradation when the reshapeable portion is exposed to a first substance (122) or a substance that has an effect similar to that of the first substance (122).

[0063] The biodegradable material may be magnesium, iron, bilayer zinc / iron, etc.

[0064] The molecular communication unit (100) includes a biofilm (120) provided to at least partially encase a reshapeable portion of the antenna body (111). The biofilm (120) is formed by genetically modified microorganisms (121) that produce a first substance (122) when exposed to messenger molecules (310). When the biofilm (120) is exposed to the messenger molecules (310), the biofilm (120) produces the first substance (122), and the reshapeable portion of the antenna is subjected to biodegradation and changes morphology. The response generated by the antenna (110) due to reflection of electromagnetic signals reaching the antenna is altered by biodegradation, thereby generating a discernible signal associated with the presence of the messenger substance.

[0065] By way of example and not limitation, the messenger molecule (310) mentioned in this embodiment is a quorum sensing molecule associated with bacterial infection. The genetically modified microorganism (121) is an E. coli strain that produces / secretes an acidic acid as a first substance (122) when exposed to the quorum sensing molecule. The reshapeable portion may be a conductor, including, but not limited to, magnesium. The acidic acid secreted from the biofilm (120) provided around the reshapeable portion increases the biodegradation rate of the reshapeable portion.

[0066] Referring to FIG. 4, the molecular communication unit (100) may also include a substrate (130) encasing the antenna to at least partially slow the rate of biodegradation. This increases the lifespan of the antenna within the body, allowing data to be acquired over a longer period of time. In a possible embodiment, the antenna is disposed between two substrates (130). At the same time, the substrates (130) facilitate placement of the antenna within the body. The substrates (130) may include at least one of polyglycerol sebacate, polyoctamethylene maleic anhydride citrate, polylactic acid, and polylactic-co-glycolic acid copolymer.

[0067] Referring to FIG. 5, in a possible embodiment of the present invention, the antenna body (111) includes a first portion (113), a second portion connected to the first portion (113) by a first reshapeable portion (117), and a third portion connected to the second portion (114) by a second reshapeable portion (118). The first reshapeable portion (117) and the second reshapeable portion (118) are encapsulated by a substrate (130) made of different materials or having different thicknesses, allowing biodegradation to be achieved in stages. The first reshapeable portion (117) and the second reshapeable portion (118) can undergo biodegradation under different conditions and at different times, allowing the same antenna to be used for a longer period of time and to transmit more data. In another possible embodiment of the present invention, the first reshapeable portion (117) and the second reshapeable portion (118) can be configured to respond to different factors within the body. This allows providing a data flow related to several factors via the antenna.

[0068] Referring to Figure 6, the molecular communication unit (100) comprises an antenna having an antenna body (111) and a reshapeable portion provided on the antenna body (111). The reshapeable portion is made of a material that changes its physical shape when a force is applied. More specifically, the reshapeable portion is made of a material that changes its physical shape when a force is applied and that restores its physical shape when the applied force is removed. The molecular communication unit (100) comprises a genetically modified tissue (140) provided near the antenna body (111) to change the shape of the antenna body (111) when distorted. The genetically modified tissue (140) may be, for example, tissue obtained by modifying genes in muscle tissue of a sample extracted from an insect. When the genetically modified tissue (140) comes into contact with the messenger molecule (310), the genetically modified tissue (140) distorts, deforming the reshapeable portion of the antenna body (111), changing the resonant frequency of the antenna body (111), and providing data transmission from inside the body to outside the body.

[0069] In a possible embodiment of the present invention, the genetically modified tissue (140) is myocardial tissue. The antenna (110) is manufactured together with the genetically modified myocardial tissue so that its shape can be deformed by the human body, after which the antenna (110) is placed in the human body. The dimensions of the antenna change rhythmically with the muscle rhythm, causing the amplitude of the reflected signal to have two states: high and low. This can be modeled as multiplying the received signal by a square wave with the frequency of the myocardial tissue. When the genetically modified myocardial tissue is exposed to messenger molecules, it changes its rhythm, which in turn changes the frequency of the multiplied signal. Therefore, the processor unit (210) extracts data from the antenna by frequency modulation.

[0070] In other words, the genetically engineered myocardium acts as a switching mixer, modulating the signal reflected from an antenna placed inside the human body. The strain frequency of the muscle is equal to the switching frequency. Similar to the phenomenon in which the rhythm of human myocardium is altered by adrenaline, the rhythm of genetically engineered myocardium can be altered by messenger molecules used in molecular communication. Thus, as in the frequency-shifted switching method, the frequency of the signal reflected as a result of multiplication with the myocardial frequency (f1 = f0 + fheart or f2 = f0 + fexcited_heart) and the frequency of the signal reflected as a result of multiplication with the genetically engineered myocardium in the absence and presence of messenger molecules (f2 = f0 + fheart') correspond to spatial and mark frequencies.

[0071] In this possible embodiment of the invention, this material is gold. In alternative embodiments, different materials having this property may be used.

[0072] The mentioned forces that provide a change in physical form and a recovery of the physical form refer to forces generated by genetically modified tissues, which are capable of changing the physical form of the antenna body 111 in such a way as to change the resonant frequency of said antenna body 111. This force and the material that is flexible to this force will vary according to the type of tissue and the shape and thickness of the antenna body 111.

[0073] FIG. 7 shows a diagram of a molecular communication unit (100) that transmits data from another communication unit (200) outside the body to a nanoelement (300) inside or on a region of the body. The other communication unit (200) includes an antenna made of a biodegradable material configured to transmit data from inside the body to outside the body, and a biofilm (120) that encases the antenna. When the biofilm in the genetically modified microorganism (121) reaches a predetermined temperature, the biofilm (121) secretes a messenger molecule (310). The genetically modified microorganism (121) may be Escherichia coli containing a heat-activated initiator. For example, when the E. coli reaches 45 degrees, the E. coli may secrete a protein that functions as the messenger molecule (310). Various microorganisms known in the art can be used as the genetically modified microorganism (121) used in the biofilm (120). Microorganisms can be used in various fields depending on the secreted messenger molecule (310). Messenger molecules (310) can be delivered to the nanoelements (300) to achieve communication and at the same time, this property can be used for therapy.

[0074] Another communication unit (200) of the system provides for the transmission of an interrogation signal to the antenna (120) by the receiver / transmitter (220) via the processor unit (210) for heating the biofilm (120) in the molecular communication unit (100). The processor unit (210) determines the current resonant frequency of the antenna according to the response signal received from the interrogation signal. When it is desired to later transmit data to the nanoelement (300), the processor unit (210) transmits an electromagnetic signal for heating purposes to the antenna (120) at the detected resonant frequency via the receiver / transmitter (220). The antenna reflects the received heating signal and provides heating of its surroundings by the microwave effect. When the surroundings of the antenna are heated and reach a temperature at which the biofilm (120) of the genetically modified microorganism (121) secretes messenger molecules (310), the communication portion from the area on the body surface or outside the body to the inside of the body is completed.

[0075] As the temperature of the medium increases, so does the rate of biodegradation of the reshapeable portion of the antenna body 111. The processor unit 210 monitors the rate of degradation and determines if a target temperature has been reached to stop the heating process.

[0076] When the molecular communication unit 100 is placed inside the body, another communication unit 200 is brought close to the molecular communication unit 100, and data exchange is easily provided. Referring to Figure 9, in a possible embodiment, the another communication unit 200 is provided in a form that can be attached to the body. This allows data exchange to be realized continuously, and makes it easy to monitor the patient.

[0077] Figure 10 shows a comparison of the decomposition rate of magnesium samples placed in serum and serum containing E. coli. The samples were prepared on glass using the DC Mg break-off method. Magnesium was observed to be completely degraded in serum and completely degraded in serum containing E. coli in approximately 8 hours, indicating that bacterial activity from E. coli enhances the decomposition rate.

[0078] Degradation is related to bacterial activity, which, thanks to the genetically modified microorganism (121), can be controlled by specific molecules, and thus degradation can be linked to the presence of said molecules. The change in resonant frequency as the antenna (100) (resonator) placed inside the body degrades and monitoring this change with a wearable antenna present outside the body connects molecular communication to electromagnetic communication. In Figure 11, the measured frequency response of an antenna placed in serum is shown with another communication unit (200) before and during degradation (after the reshapeable portion (112) has degraded).

[0079] This means that as the shape of the reshapeable portion changes when exposed to factors within the body, the electromagnetic signal reflected by the antenna 110 changes, and information related to this change is then transmitted from within or on the body to the outside.

[0080] The scope of the present invention is set forth in the appended claims and cannot be limited to the exemplary disclosure set forth above under the detailed description, because those skilled in the art can obviously make similar embodiments in light of the foregoing disclosure without departing from the core principles of the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0081] 100 Molecular Communication Units 110 Antenna 111 Antenna body 112 Reshapeable parts 113 First Part 114 Second Part 115 Third Part 117 First Reconfigurable Portion 118 Second Reconfigurable Portion 120 Biofilm 121 Genetically modified microorganisms 122 First Substance 130 PCB 140 Genetically Modified Tissues 200 separate communication units 210 processor unit 220 receiver / transmitter 230 Memory Unit 240 Input / Output Unit 300 nanoelements 310 Messenger Molecules 400 External Devices

Claims

1. A system for receiving data from nanoelements (300) inside or on the body surface, comprising: a molecular communication unit (100) having an antenna (110) attached to the body or on the body surface for transmitting data from a molecular nanocommunication network to a body area network, the antenna having an antenna body (111) configured to deform and reflect electromagnetic signals to which it is exposed, the antenna body (111) having a reshapeable portion (112) made of a material that changes its shape when exposed to a factor inside or on the body surface, the material that changes its shape when exposed to a factor inside or on the body surface being a biodegradable material.

2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the reshapeable portion (112) is configured to bend when exposed to a force exceeding a predetermined threshold.

3. 3. The system of claim 2, wherein a genetically modified tissue (140) associated with the reshapeable portion (112) is provided that provides deformation of the reshapeable portion (112) by distorting when exposed to messenger molecules (310) and by applying a force to the reshapeable portion (112).

4. 1. A system for receiving data from nanoelements (300) inside or on a body, comprising: a molecular communication unit (100) comprising an antenna (110) mounted inside or on a body for transmitting data from a molecular nanocommunication network to a body area network, said antenna comprising an antenna body (111) configured to transform and reflect electromagnetic signals to which it is exposed, said antenna body (111) comprising a reshapeable portion (112) made of a material that changes its shape when exposed to a factor inside or on the body; the reshapeable portion (112) is configured to bend when exposed to a force exceeding a predetermined threshold; A system is provided, comprising a genetically modified tissue (140) associated with the reshapeable portion (112) that distorts when exposed to messenger molecules (310) and that provides deformation of the reshapeable portion (112) by applying a force to the reshapeable portion (112).

5. 5. The system of claim 1, wherein a biodegradable capsule is provided for placement inside or on a body surface to provide information transmission from outside the body to inside or on the body surface, the capsule containing messenger molecules (310) used in molecular communication, and when the capsule wall is exposed to the electromagnetic signal sent from outside the body, the messenger molecules (310) are released by an increase in heat.

6. 1. A system for receiving data from nanoelements (300) inside or on a body, comprising: a molecular communication unit (100) comprising an antenna (110) mounted inside or on a body for transmitting data from a molecular nanocommunication network to a body area network, said antenna comprising an antenna body (111) configured to transform and reflect electromagnetic signals to which it is exposed, said antenna body (111) comprising a reshapeable portion (112) made of a material that changes its shape when exposed to a factor inside or on the body; A biodegradable capsule is provided that is placed inside or on the surface of the body to provide information transmission from outside the body to inside or on the surface of the body, the capsule containing messenger molecules (310) used in molecular communication, and when the capsule wall is exposed to the electromagnetic signal sent from outside the body, the messenger molecules (310) are released by an increase in heat.

7. 7. The system of claim 1, wherein another communication unit (200) is provided having a receiver / transmitter (220) for transmitting electromagnetic signals to the antenna (110) and receiving the electromagnetic signals reflected by the antenna (110), and a processor unit (210) configured to control the transmission of electromagnetic signals to the antenna (110) by the receiver / transmitter (220) and to receive the electromagnetic signals received from the receiver / transmitter (220), wherein the processor unit (210) is configured to determine whether the body is exposed to an internal factor according to at least one characteristic property of the electromagnetic signals received from the antenna (110).

8. The system of claim 1 , 4 or 6, wherein the entire antenna body (111) is the reshapeable portion (112).

9. The system of claim 1 , wherein a biofilm (120) is provided to at least partially encase the reshapeable portion (112).

10. The system of claim 9, wherein the reshapeable portion (112) comprises a material that exhibits an increased rate of biodegradation when exposed to a first substance (122).

11. 11. The system of claim 10, wherein the system comprises a genetically modified microorganism (121) for producing the biofilm (120), which produces the first substance (122) when exposed to a messenger molecule (310).

12. The system of claim 11, wherein the first substance (122) is an acidic acid.

13. 13. The system of claim 12, wherein the messenger molecule (310) is a quorum sensing molecule associated with a bacterial infection, and the genetically modified microorganism (121) is an Escherichia coli strain that produces an acidic acid as the first substance (122) when exposed to the quorum sensing molecule.

14. 10. The system of claim 1, wherein the biodegradable material is selected from magnesium, iron, and bilayer zinc / iron.

15. 10. The system of claim 1, wherein at least one substrate (130) is provided to at least partially encase the antenna (110) to slow down the rate of degradation of the reshapeable portion (112).

16. The system of claim 15 , wherein the substrate (130) comprises a biodegradable material.

17. 17. The system of claim 16, wherein the substrate (130) comprises at least one of polyglycerin sebacate, polyoctamethylene maleic (anhydride) citrate, polylactic acid, and polylactic-co-glycolic acid.

18. The system of claim 16, wherein two of the substrates (130) are provided such that the antenna (110) is received therebetween.

19. 5. The system of claim 3 or 4, wherein the genetically modified tissue (140) is muscle tissue.

20. The system of claim 7 , wherein the characteristic property is frequency.

21. 8. The system of claim 7, wherein the other communication unit (200) comprises a memory unit (230) provided in association with the processor unit (210) to enable data to be read by the processor unit (210), and the processor unit (210) is configured to determine whether the antenna (110) is exposed to an intrabody factor according to deviation of the characteristic property of the signal received from the antenna (110) from at least one characteristic property present in the memory unit (230).

22. 8. The system of claim 7, wherein the other communication unit (200) comprises an input / output unit that causes the processor unit (210) to realize an output related to exposure of the antenna (110) to a factor within the body.

23. The system of claim 7 , wherein the other communication unit (200) comprises a body, the body being located inside or on the body.

24. 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the antenna body (111) includes a first portion (113), a second portion connected to the first portion (113) by a first reshapeable portion (117), and a third portion connected to the second portion (114) by a second reshapeable portion (118).

25. 25. The system of claim 24, wherein the first reshapeable portion (117) and the second reshapeable portion (118) are made of biodegradable materials that degrade when exposed to different factors.

26. 25. The system of claim 24, wherein the first reshapeable portion (117) and the second reshapeable portion (118) are coated with substrates (130) having different biodegradation rates.

27. 27. The system of claim 26, wherein the coating thickness is selected from one of a number of predetermined thicknesses according to a target degradation rate to adjust the biodegradation rate of the substrate.

28. 1. A method for receiving data from a nanoelement (300) within a body, comprising: a processor unit (210) transmitting an interrogation signal to an antenna (110) having an antenna body (111) configured to reflect an electromagnetic signal when exposed to the electromagnetic signal by a receiver / transmitter (220), and a reshapeable portion (112) made of a material that allows the antenna body (111) to change shape when exposed to a factor within the body; receiving, by the processor unit (210), a response signal generated by reflecting the interrogation signal off the antenna (110); the processor unit (210) determining whether the antenna (110) is exposed to an in-body factor according to deviations of characteristic properties of the received response signal from predetermined reference characteristic properties; Including, The method, wherein said material that changes its shape when exposed to a factor within the body is a biodegradable material.

29. 1. A method for receiving data from a nanoelement (300) within a body, comprising: a processor unit (210) transmitting an interrogation signal to an antenna (110) having an antenna body (111) configured to reflect an electromagnetic signal when exposed to the electromagnetic signal by a receiver / transmitter (220), and a reshapeable portion (112) made of a material that allows the antenna body (111) to change shape when exposed to a factor within the body; receiving, by the processor unit (210), a response signal generated by reflecting the interrogation signal off the antenna (110); the processor unit (210) determining whether the antenna (110) is exposed to an in-body factor according to deviations of characteristic properties of the received response signal from predetermined reference characteristic properties; Including, the reshapeable portion (112) is configured to bend when exposed to a force exceeding a predetermined threshold; The method includes providing a genetically modified tissue (140) associated with the reshapeable portion (112) that distorts when exposed to a messenger molecule (310) and provides deformation of the reshapeable portion (112) by applying a force to the reshapeable portion (112).

30. 1. A method for receiving data from a nanoelement (300) within a body, comprising: a processor unit (210) transmitting an interrogation signal to an antenna (110) having an antenna body (111) configured to reflect an electromagnetic signal when exposed to the electromagnetic signal by a receiver / transmitter (220), and a reshapeable portion (112) made of a material that allows the antenna body (111) to change shape when exposed to a factor within the body; receiving, by the processor unit (210), a response signal generated by reflecting the interrogation signal off the antenna (110); the processor unit (210) determining whether the antenna (110) is exposed to an in-body factor according to deviations of characteristic properties of the received response signal from predetermined reference characteristic properties; Including, A method is provided in which a biodegradable capsule is provided for placement inside the body to provide information transmission from outside the body to the body, the capsule containing messenger molecules (310) used in molecular communication, and when the capsule wall is exposed to the electromagnetic signal sent from outside the body, the messenger molecules (310) are released by an increase in heat.

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