by Playfuls Staff |
5th December 2006
U.S. scientists say they are developing a tiny implant that could help doctors monitor tumor growth and the progress [more] of chemotherapy in cancer patients.
The implant under development at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology contains nanoparticles that can be designed to test for different substances, including those associated with tumor growth. It can also track the effects of cancer drugs.
"You really want to have some sort of rapid measure of whether (chemotherapy) is working ... or whether you should go on to the next (drug)," said Professor Michael Cima, who is leading the research.
Such nanoparticles have been used before but, for the first time, the MIT researchers have encased them in a silicone delivery device, allowing the nanoparticles to remain in a patient's body for an extended period of time.
In addition to monitoring the presence of chemotherapy drugs, the device could also be used to check whether a tumor is growing or shrinking, or whether it has spread to other locations.
The researchers presented their findings during recent meetings of the European Cancer Society and the American Institute of Chemical Engineers.
© 2006 UPI
