AN INTRODUCTION TO NANOCOMPUTING - Bio-Inspired and Nanoscale Integrated Computing - page 23

A focal point of such research is treating motor neuron diseases, such as
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (Lou Gehrig's Disease) and other types of atrophy
[38]. Motor neuron diseases typically result in the degradation of neurons that
control voluntary muscle, which are critical in performing tasks such as speaking
and swallowing. Researchers have discovered a mutation in a molecular motor gene
that leads to the buildup of improperly folded proteins in the cell. Many hypothesize
that nanorobots and molecular motors may prove useful in preventing such
degradation by restoring normal function to the cell and preventing the buildup
of protein [37]. Scientists are currently attempting to construct nanoscale devices for
this application, but they face many challenges. By studying molecular motors, they
hope to discover ways for powering and mobilizing future nanodevices.
1.6.3. Nanorobots
Based on the existence of vaults, it is clear that nature has created its own
nanoparticles. But what about man-made nanomachines? As nanocomputing
advances, the field of nanorobotics is sure to progress as well. Approximately
10 years ago, the first theoretical design of a nanorobot for medicinal purposes
was presented to the scientific community. The device utilized 18 billion precisely
arranged atoms to form a diamonoid vessel with active pumping capabilities [41].
This has the potential to deliver over 200 times more oxygen to tissues than red
blood cells. Theoretical designs also exist for synthetic white blood cells that are
able to digest blood-borne pathogens. These nanorobots would have the ability to
operate faster and more reliably than naturally occurring white blood cells.
Other designs include nanorobots with platelet functions that will allow
hemostasis in as little as a single second. This complex machine would be
invaluable in treating patients with severe hemorrhaging, especially in traumatic
injuries. Perhaps most intriguing is the idea of a chromallocyte, a hypothetical
mobile repair nanorobot capable of performing chromosome replacement therapy
(CRT) [41]. This process involves the replacement of the entire chromatin content
of a living cell with a prefabricated set of error-free chromosomes. This may allow
for the treatment of entire organs such as the liver or heart and will without a
doubt revolutionize the way we treat disease.
These nanomachines will be the core of nanocomputing and nanotechnol-
ogy's biomedical applications; they represent a fundamental change in the way
engineers and doctors will communicate. Indeed, it is essential for researchers on
both sides of this fascinating technology to exchange ideas and strategies if they
are to fully utilize the potential of nanotechnology. Nanorobotics is discussed in
detail in Chapter 15.
1.6.4. Pharmaceuticals
Pharmaceuticals are a multibillion dollar a year industry, evolving daily with the
discovery and patenting of new drugs. Developers are constantly seeking stronger
and more effective medicines that will also reduce side effects. Nanotechnology and