Nanocapsules used for drug delivery

PITTSBURGH - University of Pittsburgh scientists say they have created nanoscale devices for drug or imaging agent de- livery and to enhance oxygen sensors. In a report published online in the journal Advanced Materials, a team led by chem- istry Professors Alexander Star and Stephane Petoud describe the creation of nanosized capsules that are universally com- patible with a range of substances, particularly related to medicine and energy. When applied to medicine, the tiny ves- sels can potentially carry a sizable "cargo" of anti-cancer drugs or medical imaging agents. That study included grad- uate students Brett Allen, Chad Shade and Adrienne Yingling.
In a separate paper appearing online in Nature Chemistry another team headed by Star and Petoud developed a highly sensitive, fluorescent oxygen sensor that can detect minute amounts of the gas. The researchers said such oxygen detec- tors are important safety devices in mines, aircraft, sub- marines and other confined spaces. In both studies the sci- entists said they used carbon nanomaterials to create en- hanced versions of existing technologies. "For decades, re- searchers have been searching for an optimal vessel for storing and transporting a variety of cargo to specified locations," Star said. "Our devices have the potential to be universal delivery vehicles for a range of materials. Our next steps will focus on controlling how and when the nano- capsules open by using different stimuli such as pH, light, and chemical agents."

Protein Snacks

Stem cells may treat neurodegeneration

TEL AVIV, Israel - Israeli scientists say they have shown the viability of using bone marrow stem cells to treat such neuro- degenerative diseases as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. Tel Aviv University researcher Yoram Cohen said he has proven the viability of the innovative stem cells, called mesenchymal stem cells, using in-vivo magnetic resonance imaging. Cohen said he tracked the stem cells progress within the brain, and initial studies indicate they can identify unhealthy or damaged tissues, migrate to them and potentially repair or halt cell degeneration. "By monitoring the motion of these cells, you get information about how viable they are, and how they can benefit the tissue," he said. "We have been able to prove that these stem cells travel within the brain, and only travel where they are needed. They read the chemical sig- naling of the tissue, which indicate areas of stress. And then they go and try to repair the situation." His research is detailed in the journal Stem Cells.

Quotes for the Soul