Potential of nanotechnology in medicine

Apr 15 2007

Will nanotechnology revolutionize medicine?

Scientists are working now to create novel nanostructures that serve as new kinds of drugs for treating cancer, Parkinson's and cardiovascular disease; to engineer nanomaterials for use as artificial tissues that would replace diseased kidneys and livers, and even repair nerve damage; and to integrate nanodevices with the nervous system to create implants that restore vision and hearing, and build new prosthetic limbs.

On Monday, April 23, 2007 Dr. Samuel I. Stupp, a leading nanomedicine scientist from Northwestern University will present the findings from his latest research in applying nanotechnology to jump start cell regeneration. Dr. Stupp also will share his predictions on the long-term potential of using nanotechnology to treat specific medical conditions.

The event marks the release of NanoFrontiers: Visions for the Future of Nanotechnology by Karen F. Schmidt. This is a new publication that highlights the findings of a Washington, DC meeting organized by the National Science Foundation, National Institutes of Health, and Project on Emerging Nanotechnologies at the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars.

In addition to medical treatments, the report examines several compelling opportunities for significant, widespread benefits from the technology, including nanotechnology's ability to address the energy crisis and demand for clean water.

http://www.wilsoncenter.org/nano