Team of researchers at UC
Some of the developing tumors were too small to detect by conventional methods. But with these amazing microscopic vehicles, we could specifically target and locate the developing tumors.
Scientists constructed their nanoworms from spherical iron oxide nanoparticles that link together, like segments of an earthworm, to produce tiny gummy worm-like structures about 30 nanometers long, which is about 3 million times smaller than an earthworm. The iron-oxide has a property to show up brightly in diagnostic devices, enables us to identify tumors very easily.
Also they coated the nanoworms with a peptide called F3, which allows it to specifically target the tumors that have been developed. Michael Sailor, a professor of chemistry and biochemistry at UC San Diego who headed the research team states that “Most nanoparticles are recognized by the body's protective mechanisms, which capture and remove them from the bloodstream within a few minutes.” This polymer coating and their typical elongated shape enables them to avoid the body’s immune defense system.
Researchers are now working on developing ways to attach drugs to the nanoworms, acting as a drug carrier, to directly transfer the drugs to the tumor.
For more information:
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2008/05/080506200531.htm
By Yoshihito Minoda (41778272)
