Wednesday, 24th September 2008 (431 views)

Gold nanoparticles are being used by scientists developing a form of cancer treatment due to several of their properties, it has been claimed.

Researchers experimenting with the non invasive radiowave thermal ablation method are incorporating nanotechnology into the approach, according to Nanowerk.

Gold is highly suitable for the process, as nanoparticles made of the precious metal are easily prepared and bind effectively to cancer-targeting agents.

Radio frequency ablation of malignant areas works by inserting a thin needle into the skin and delivering electrical energy to the cancerous zone, destroying tumours with thermal energy.

This form of treatment is used in kidney, breast, liver, bone and lung cancers and most research on the subject so far has incorporated gold nanoparticles, the site noted.

Recently, scientists from Duke University developed a method using tiny gold particles to 'see' into living tissue and watch molecules interacting.

They claimed this breakthrough could help medical professionals to study tumours.

 

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