University develops cancer 'nanobomb'

NEWARK, Del., Oct 13, 2005 (UPI via COMTEX) -- University of Delaware researchers say they've developed a unique "nanobomb" that can literally blow up cancer tumors.

Balaji Panchapakesan, an assistant professor of electrical and computer engineering and the lead investigator, said the research is in its very early stages and years from engaging in clinical trials.

"Make no mistake, we are focused on eradicating cancer," Panchapakesan said, explaining the nanobombs are the result of work with carbon nanotubes -- atoms of carbon arranged in tubular form.

Originally, he said, the research team was considering using carbon nanotubes as drug delivery vehicles. But as various experiments progressed, the researchers made a startling discovery.

"When you put the atoms in different shapes and forms, they take on different properties at the nanoscale," Panchapakesan said. "We were experimenting with the molecules and considering optical and thermal properties, and found we could trigger microscopic explosions of nanotubes in wide variety of conditions.

"The nanobomb is very selective, very localized and minimally invasive," Panchapakesan added. "It might cause what I would call nanopain, like a pin prick."

Panchapakesan recently reported on the discoveries in the journals NanoBiotechnology and Oncology Issues.

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