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MIT Injects Nanotubes To Help Fight Cancer
CWmike writes to tell us that researchers at MIT have found a way to wrap nanotube sensors in DNA to detect the results of chemotherapy. The sensors are able to detect whether the drugs are attacking their targets or healthy cells. "Cancer researchers have long been trying to figure out a way to better deliver drugs to cancer cells without blasting surrounding cells as well. The Stanford researchers devised a way to use single-walled carbon nanotubes as targeted medicinal delivery vehicles. By better targeting the chemotherapy, less of the drug needs to be injected into the patient for cancer treatment. And that would reduce the side effects of chemotherapy treatment, such as nausea, hair loss, weight loss and fatigue."
That was my first thought when I read this. From the article, though:
The sensors, which can detect chemotherapy drugs as well as toxins and free radicals, are carbon nanotubes that scientists have wrapped in DNA so they can be safely injected into living tissue, according to a release from the university.
I guess the wrapping process eliminates the danger? At least the nanotubes don't end up free-floating.
Only of certain radii and lengths similar to asbestos. I visited SouthWest nanotechnologies and they said they have the ability to control both of those in their process, I'm sure many other processes have that ability as well. See verification of that here.