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Fighting cancer with nanotechnology

Nanotechnology holds many promises for our daily lives, especially in the fields of medicine and healthcare.

Though, in its nascent stage of research, the new ‘Nanoblaster’ technology provides a unique and effective way of treating cancer.

The process involves the introduction of nano-particles of size varying from 15 to 50 nanometre into the body. They are injected into the blood stream and guided towards cancer cells. The particles undergo intracellular aligning with the affected cells. This leads to the destruction of cancerous cells. Nano-particles which get into the cells are coated with “carboxydextran” or “dextran” which has a high molecular weight. They act as the ‘disguising component’ attached by polymerisation and facilitates the entry of the particles into the “security system” of the infected cells. The particles are made of ferrite materials and have a “Curie Point” (the temperature at which the particle loses its magnetic properties) varying from 105 to 365 degree celsius.

Immediately, after their entry into the cells, “blasting” (applying thermoshock for a very short time) is completed. If there is a time lapse between the entry and blasting, the cancer cells might get used to the “thermoshock” and fight off the particles.

Even though theoretically, the technique should be effective in killing cancer, the risk factors involved are to be ascertained. Among the foreseen hazards of the treatment are the possibilities of haemorrhage and intra-molecular bleeding of the cells. “Once the diseased cells are removed with “blasting,” a way has to be found to remove the resultant debris, especially in the case of brain tumour. Though a simple process, all these factors have to be taken into account,” said Dr. Rajah Vijay Kumar, Director and Chief Scientific Officer of the Bangalore-based Centre for Advanced Research & Development.  

(www.deccanherald.com)

 
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