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Modeling a model nanoparticle

Researchers developed a universal computer model for metal nanoparticle adsorption, accounting for structural characteristics, metal composition, and adsorbates. The model enables predicting adsorption trends on novel nanoparticles, accelerating nanomaterials design.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalScience Advances·DateSep 18, 2019

CRISPR-responsive hydrogel system offers programmable approach to smart biomaterials

Researchers developed a CRISPR-responsive hydrogel system that can be programmed to release compounds, nanoparticles, or live cells in response to specific DNA targets. The system's sensitivity and versatility make it suitable for various biomedical applications, including tissue engineering, bio-electronics, and biosensing.

Tightening the tumor-targeting abilities of checkpoint blockade immunotherapy

Scientists have developed a novel nanoparticle formulation targeting PD-L1 with high specificity, allowing for improved infiltration of T cells into tumors and increased sensitivity to checkpoint blockade. This approach achieved an 80% mouse survival rate over 70 days, outperforming traditional antibody therapies.

An 'EpiPen' for spinal cord injuries

The approach demonstrated in mice enhances healing by reprogramming aggressive immune cells to work for the body, reducing inflammation and promoting regeneration. This technology could lead to new therapeutic strategies for patients with spinal cord injury and inflammatory diseases.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 11, 2019

On the way to nanotheranostics

A new nanotheranostic system uses silica-coated bismuth-ferrite harmonic nanoparticles to combine diagnostic imaging with targeted drug delivery, overcoming limitations of previous approaches. The system allows for medically safe release of therapeutics upon near-infrared light activation.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateJul 8, 2019

Imprinted spheres fight breast cancer

Researchers developed molecularly imprinted nanoparticles that selectively bind to HER2 receptors, inhibiting tumor cell multiplication and growth. The particles were produced using a special method and demonstrated significant efficacy in reducing tumor growth in vitro and in mice.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateJul 3, 2019

Activity of fuel cell catalysts doubled

Researchers at TUM have developed platinum nanoparticles that double the performance of current fuel cells. The particles are about one nanometer big and contain approximately 40 platinum atoms, resulting in high mass activity. This breakthrough could lead to widespread adoption of fuel cells in electric cars.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateJul 3, 2019

Researchers find cause of rare, fatal disease that turns babies' lips and skin blue

Scientists have identified a rare genetic mutation causing a fatal respiratory disorder that affects newborns. Using CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing technology, researchers developed a mouse model of the disease and discovered a critical link between FOXF1 mutations and STAT3 deficiency.

SourceCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateJun 19, 2019

Researchers from IKBFU study nanoparticles synthesized by method of electric explosion

Researchers from IKBFU have developed high-quality α-Fe magnetic nanoparticles using an alternative method of electric explosion, which exhibit a high value of magnetization saturation. The obtained nanoparticles show increased chemical stability and biocompatibility, making them suitable for applications in sensing and biomedicine.

SourceImmanuel Kant Baltic Federal University·JournalJournal of Magnetism and Magnetic Materials·DateJun 17, 2019

Gold for iron nanocubes

Researchers at the University of Helsinki and OIST have developed a novel method to create hybrid Au/Fe nanoparticles with unprecedented complexity. This breakthrough enables precise control over shape, size, and elemental composition, opening up new avenues for emerging applications.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalAdvanced Science·DateJun 17, 2019

A bubbly new way to detect the magnetic fields of nanometer-scale particles

Researchers at NIST developed a method to measure magnetic properties of nanoparticles by rapidly enlarging magnetic bubbles, revealing the orientation of individual nanoparticle poles. This technique enables fast and economical measurement of magnetic stability for various medical and environmental applications.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalPhysical Review Applied·DateJun 10, 2019

Common food additive found to affect gut microbiota

A new study found that titanium dioxide nanoparticles, used in over 900 food products, can affect the gut microbiota and potentially trigger diseases like inflammatory bowel diseases and colorectal cancer. The research suggests that better regulation of E171 consumption is needed to ensure safe use.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalFrontiers in Nutrition·DateMay 13, 2019

New class of catalysts for energy conversion

Researchers at Ruhr-Universität Bochum have discovered a new class of high entropy alloys suitable for electrocatalytic applications. These materials show potential in reducing energy losses and improving activity comparable to platinum catalysts in oxygen reduction reactions.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalACS Energy Letters·DateMay 6, 2019

An army of micro-robots can wipe out dental plaque

A team of engineers, dentists, and biologists from the University of Pennsylvania developed microscopic robotic cleaning crews that can precisely and non-invasively remove dental plaque. The robots use catalytic activity to kill bacteria and break down biofilms, offering a potential solution for biofilm-related infections.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalScience Robotics·DateApr 24, 2019

Magnetic nanoparticles can 'burn' cancer cells

New research shows that magnetic hyperthermia therapy is tunable depending on nanoparticle diameter and material composition. The study demonstrates increased tumour absorption rates as particle diameter increases, offering new avenues for targeted cancer treatment.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal B·DateApr 4, 2019

Same properties, lower cost

Researchers at Tohoku University have developed a technique to transform copper into a material that mimics properties of gold and silver. The new medium, made of copper nanoparticles, has applications in the production of electronic devices and is suitable for environmentally friendly printing technologies.

SourceTohoku University·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 1, 2019

Quantum optical cooling of nanoparticles

Physicians at the University of Vienna have developed a novel method to cool nanoparticles using quantum optics, enabling unprecedented control over particle motion in ultra-high vacuum. The approach, inspired by atomic physics, harnesses scattered light from an optical tweezer to effectively cool particles' kinetic energy.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMar 29, 2019