Particles synthesized within
nanometer-size range are only 1/1,000 the width of a single human hair.
These nanoparticles can accumulate in a tumor and be taken up by the
tumor cells due to their fairly tiny size. In addition, several
types of metal nanoparticles possess unique optical properties that can
absorb light energy and convert it to thermal energy. Therefore,
these special particles serve as light absorbing materials, which heat
up and burn the tumor upon laser light shining. In this project,
we will investigate the potential of nanomedicine for cancer therapy of
gold and copper nanoparticles. We will use chemical engineering
tools to develop nanotechnology that enables us to "cook" refractory
cancer cells in a small rodent model. In addition, we will test
their metabolism and toxicity. It is expected that this new
approach will be developed into a non-invasive therapy to cure
refractory cancer.
This project involves the use of vertebrate animals.
