Nanomotors: 20 years anniversary and future roadmap

Since their discovery in 2004, there has been remarkable progress in research on nanomotors starting with the elucidation of different propulsion mechanisms to the study of their collective behavior, culminating in investigations into their applications in biomedicine and environmental remediation. This perspective reviews this evolution in nanomotors research and discusses the key challenges ahead, including the development of advanced characterization techniques, precise motion control, materials innovation, theory and modelling, and in vivo applications. These challenges not only highlight the current limitations of synthetic nanomotors but also point to exciting future opportunities to revolutionize theranostics, and the creation of ‘living’ hybrid systems. Thus, this perspective aims to inspire future generations of researchers in advancing both fundamental understanding and practical breakthroughs, thereby engineering a paradigm shift in nanomotors research.