Nanomotors Improve Stroke Treatment

Nanomotors Improve Stroke Treatment
Jul-30-14
Researchers have developed a magnetic nanoparticle that could improve treatment for acute strokes by stirring and shaking blood clots.

The nanoparticles (known as 'nanomotors') are intended to supplement the current stroke treatment drug t-PA, which works by thinning blood clots. According to Yiping Zhao, professor of physics at UGA, the nanomotors assist the t-PA by acting like "stirring bars to drive t-PA to the site of the clot," where they then function like a mixer to further break up the blood clots already thinned by t-PA.

According to early studies, the nanomotors can enhance the t-PA treatment by twofold, which allows less of the t-PA drug to be administered. And since t-PA has the side effect of a hemorrhage risk, using less of the drug helps to alleviate that danger.

Thumbnail image: blood clot

More Info about this Invention:

[IEEE.ORG]
[NEWS.UGA.EDU]
Next Invention »
Share on      

Add your Comment:

[LOGIN FIRST] if you're already a member.

fields are required.



Note: Your name will appear at the bottom of your comment.