Shape-Shifting Nanoparticles Change from a Sphere to a Net

Jun-05-13 Shape-shifting nanoparticles able to change shape and lodge themselves with a tumor could present an alternative to antibodies, which are currently used to bind the nanoparticles to tumor sites.

Currently in development at UCSD, the particles are designed to be spherical, so they can flow easily through the bloodstream. Once they reach the diseased tissue, the particles are triggered by enzymes to change shape, opening up and linking to form a scaffold that stops them from moving further down the bloodstream. This allows drugs to be delivered directly to tumor sites and held in place by the nano-scaffold.

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[MEDGADGET.COM]
[USCD]

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