Nano-Particles
Nanoparticles are ultrafine particles, sized between 1 and 100 nanometers, which behave as a whole unit in its delivery and properties. The particles have been proven to be invaluable in the biomedical field. Researchers have used nanoparticles to destroy certain cancer cells, kill various viruses, and detect cancer tumors at its early stages.
Researchers are experimenting with the use of bismuth nanoparticles to concentrate radiation used in radiation therapy to treat cancer. Initial results indicate that the bismuth nanoparticles would increase the radiation dose to the tumor by 90 percent. A new imaging agent was also developed by combining bismuth nanoparticles with other targeting molecules, providing a high-fidelity computed tomography (CT) images of tumors.
Other early detection methods for different diseases are also being researched and developed using nanoparticles. There are nanoparticles being developed where it forms clumps when they attach to proteins or other molecules indicating the disease. The nanoparticles would turn a particular color when it is clumped around a protein and if the protein is not present the solution would turn another color. This would allow early detection of the disease. Other developments include nanoparticles contained in an ointment that is applied to the skin to stop the protein growth resulting in skin cancer tumors.
The research and development involving nanoparticles is revolutionizing the field of medicine. The possibilities are endless, and it will change the way we detect and treat diseases in the future. The benefits of nanoparticles to modern medicine are endless, from drug delivery, to therapeutics techniques, to diagnostic techniques. Nanoparticles are bringing us a step closer to finding cures to many terminal diseases.
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