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Nickel nanoparticles may contribute to lung cancer

New research from Brown University finds that nickel nanoparticles can activate a cellular pathway that contributes to cancer in human lung cells. The study shows that smaller nanoscale particles are more harmful and potentially cancer-causing than larger microscale particles.

SourceBrown University·JournalToxicological Sciences·DateAug 23, 2011

Tunable nano-suspensions for light harvesting

Researchers at Syracuse University have developed tunable nano-suspensions capable of capturing specific wavelengths of sunlight, paving the way for improved solar energy efficiency and smart glass technologies. By manipulating the composition of the suspension, scientists can achieve optimal optical properties.

SourceSyracuse University·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateAug 20, 2011

Cancer gene therapy from camels

Scientists have successfully used camel blood-derived nanobodies to target and kill cancer cells expressing specific markers. The approach involves attaching the nanobodies to nanoparticles that deliver a killer gene, preventing non-specific cell killing and improving safety.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalJournal of Controlled Release·DateJul 14, 2011

Just add water and treat brain cancer

Researchers have developed a novel gene therapy system using nanoparticles that can be freeze-dried and stored for up to three months. The technology shows promise in treating brain cancer with high efficacy and minimal risk of complications, offering a potential alternative to traditional therapies.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalBiomaterials·DateJul 5, 2011

Safety of nanoparticles in food crops is still unclear

A recent literature review analyzed nearly 100 scientific articles on the effects of nanoparticles on edible plants. The study found that nanoparticle uptake and build-up vary depending on plant type, nanoparticle size, and chemical composition, highlighting a need for further research in nanoecotoxicology.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateJun 1, 2011

Sharpening the nanofocus

Researchers at Berkeley Lab demonstrated antenna-enhanced gas sensing at the single particle level using a palladium nanoparticle on a gold nanoantenna. The technique amplifies plasmonic sensing signals, eliminating statistical characteristics and offering noninvasive, biocompatible applications.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Materials·DateMay 17, 2011

Hitting target in cancer fight now easier with new nanoparticle platform, UCLA scientists say

Researchers create engineered mesoporous silica nanoparticles that improve drug delivery to tumors, increasing particle retention by up to 10% and reducing systemic side effects. The optimized platform achieves significant increases in doxorubicin delivery, inducing tumor shrinkage and apoptosis while improving safety profiles.

Nanoparticles increase biofuel performance

A new study reveals that alumina nanoparticles enhance biodiesel combustion, increasing fuel efficiency while decreasing nitrogen oxide and carbon monoxide emissions. Researchers are now exploring other types of nanoparticles for potential engine lubrication and cooling systems.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalJournal of Renewable and Sustainable Energy·DateApr 8, 2011

Freeway air bad for mouse brain

A new study reveals that exposure to vehicle pollution can cause significant brain damage in mice, including signs of memory loss and Alzheimer's disease. The tiny particles from burning fossil fuels and weathered car parts are too small for filters to trap, raising concerns about human health.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·DateApr 7, 2011

Producing clean water in an emergency

McGill researchers develop a cheap, portable paper-based filter to produce clean drinking water in emergency situations. The filter, coated with silver nanoparticles, is able to kill nearly all bacteria and produce water that meets EPA standards.

SourceMcGill University·JournalJournal of Environmental Science and Technology·DateFeb 23, 2011

MIT engineers design new nanoparticle that could lead to vaccines for HIV, malaria, other diseases

Scientists have designed a new type of nanoparticle that can deliver synthetic versions of proteins normally produced by viruses, eliciting a strong immune response comparable to live virus vaccines. The nanoparticles consist of concentric fatty spheres that can be used to develop vaccines against cancer and infectious diseases.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Materials·DateFeb 22, 2011

New nanoparticles make blood clots visible

New nanoparticles designed to target fibrin in blood clots can be seen with a new type of CT scanner, providing early detection and potential treatment options for heart attacks. This technology has the potential to save lives by quickly identifying unstable plaque and guiding targeted treatments.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateFeb 2, 2011

Nanodisk gene therapy

Researchers have created a new type of nanoparticle called nanodisks, which can carry genetic material and enter cells quickly without losing its potency. These nanodisks offer a promising alternative to traditional gene therapy vectors, potentially improving therapeutic outcomes.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalBiomaterials·DateJan 11, 2011

Nanomaterials in our environment

A study by the University of Kentucky found that earthworms can absorb copper nanoparticles present in soil, raising concerns about potential exposure to humans and animals. The research has significant implications for understanding the interactions of nanomaterials in the environment.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalJournal of Environmental Quality·DateDec 15, 2010