Biology Reference
In-Depth Information
pathophysiology and pathogenesis of a variety of human diseases by
correlating changes occurring at the molecular and cellular levels to changes
in patient physiology. This will provide an alternative and better approach to
assess the onset or progression of diseases as well as to identify targets for
therapeutic interventions. Such measurements, previously not technically
achievable, facilitate quantitative studies on the morphological, biophysical
and biochemical nano and microscale properties of biological cells and their
organization. Several recently developed nanotechnological tools and probe
techniques that have inluenced healthcare research and development
include the following: nanoparticles for imaging and drug delivery, atomic
force microscopy (AFM), molecular force spectroscopy, nanomaterials and
microluidics in management of major diseases such as cardiovascular
diseases, cancer, diabetes and other diseases. Table 20.1 outlines some uses
of molecules, molecular assemblies, materials and devices in the range of
1-100 nm, and the exploitation of the unique properties and processes at
this dimensional scale.
Table 20.1. Nanotechnology-based medical tools for diagnostics and therapeutics
Beneits
Examples
Drug delivery
Nanoparticles
liposomes,
virosomes,
polymerosomes,
nanosuspensions
Greater affectivity,
biocompatibility,
low toxicity
Abraxane™
against advanced breast cancer;
130 nm albumin-bound paclitaxel particles +
Doxil® for ovarian cancer and Kaposi's
sarcoma; polyethylene glycol (PEG)-coated
lipid nanoparticles evade the potential
impact of the immune system + .
Emend® Anti-nausea drug for chemotherapy
patients containing aprepitant; colloidal
suspension of surface stabilized NanoCrystal
particles (<1000 nm)
Therapeutics
Fullerenes,
dendrimers,
nanoshells
Low side effects,
multiple drug
therapy, targeted
drug release to
tumour cells
reducing toxic side
effects; thermal
drug release
BrachySil™ 30 mm BioSilicon particles
encapsulating radioactive 32P bonded
within silicon microcrystalline shell, remain
localized and deliver targeted dose of beta
radiation
Aurimune Recombinant human tumour
necrosis factor alpha-coated pegylated
colloidal Au nanoparticles
Gold Nanorods
Nanobomb Laser heating of hydrated carbon
nanotubes kills tumour cells
 
 
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