There is much debate over the issue of nanotechnology, with recent reports swinging to the positive side of the spectrum. Scientists at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock Nanotechnology Center say nanotechnology may provide an avenue for physicians to track cancer cells in the body, and enable targeted treatment.

A recent report in the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette says the scientists, led by Alexandru Biris, assistant professor and the chief scientist at the university’s Nanotechnology Center, have developed a technique for attacking cancer cells by injecting them with nanoparticles a few thousand times smaller than the diameter of a human hair, then heating the particles with low-frequency radiation. The heat kills the cancer cell completely. The nanotechnology scientists are working in cooperation with physicians from the University of Arkansas Medical Sciences department.

The Gazette article quotes Dr. Piotr Grodzinski, director of the National Cancer Institute’s Alliance for Nanotechnology in Cancer as saying the concept of using nanoparticles to treat cancer isn’t new, but that the type of nanoparticle developed by the Little Rock team is groundbreaking. The Little Rock team usues a highly magnetic cobalt particle surrounded by layers of graphitic carbon.

Scientists at the UALR Nanotechnology Center have had promising results from initial research, killing about 98 percent of cervical cancer cells used in the study. Before they can move into clinical trials with human beings – at least two years away – they must investigate a number of issues, including how the technique will affect surrounding tissues and how to reduce the toxicity of the metals used in the nanoparticles, among others.

It is the mission of the Nanotechnology Center at UALR to “advance the science of Nanotechnology through research and outreach and accelerate technological innovations into practical applications for society.” The Center received $5.9 million in funding from the Arkansas State Goverment in 2006, which helped the program garner an additional $1.9 million in federal grant funding.

Read the full article online at the UALR Nanotechnology Center web site.

Nanotechnology has raised safety concerns in the past as a concern for mesothelioma. Last May, this site featured information from an article published in the scientific journal Nature Nanotechnology, which likened the effect of carbon nanotubes to asbestos fibers when introduced into the body.

The UALR Nanotechnology Center acknowledges that as with exposure to asbestos, nanotubes can be potentially dangerous if the tiny fibers are inhaled, noting that manufacturers, lab researchers, suppliers and other professionals who handle nanotubes are at risk and should use protective clothing. The Center also recommends appropriate ventilation in areas where carbon nanotube fibers may become airborne. Scientists are still examining the possible connection between carbon nanotubes and mesothelioma.

The scientific journal Nature Nanotechnology published a report May 20 detailing the results of an early study that likens the effect of carbon nanotubes to asbestos when introduced into the body. Researchers injected mice with nanotube fibers and observed the same type of imbedding, irritation, inflamation and the creation of lesions called granulomas, which can lead to mesothelioma.

Nanotubes are tiny, cylindrical carbon molecules that, according to Wikipedia, exhibit extraordinary strength and unique electrical properties, and are efficient conductors of heat. They are already being used in sporting equipment like bicycle frames and tennis rackets due to their strength, and are thought to be the future of technology. They are used in some electronic components now, and are being researched to build tiny electronics and optics.

Researchers do not believe that materials containing carbon nanotubes are dangerous in and of themselves, in materials and products where they are safely encased, but are concerned about tiny nanotube fibers being released when those products are broken or incinerated. Also, they are concerned about workplace safety for nano factory workers.

The Washington Post reported that “preliminary evidence of cancer risk is strong enough to justify urgent follow-up tests and government guidance for nano factory workers.”

The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health is conducting nanotoxicology research, and, according to a story in the San Francisco Chronicle, already recommends people working with carbon nanotubes follow NIOSH guidelines for working with engineered nanomaterials. This includes using respirators and special filters to clean the air.

It is estimated that nanotubes will be a $2 billion industry within the next few years, and nanoparticle technology and production even more than that.

The Washington Post points out that there is already significant federal spending in place to support this industry, with the National Nanotechnology Initiative providing about $1.5 billion a year for research. Only 5 percent of that fund is focused on health and safety.

While the carbon nanotube research is preliminary, its findings are significant enough to warrant real concern.

John M. Balbus, health program chief at the Environmental Defense Fund, made a prophetic statement to the Washington Post about the future of nanotechnology as it relates to public health. The paper quotes him as saying, “I think we are really coming to a critical juncture relating to transparency and stewardship. We will see whether various companies are going to be proactive and up front with people, and communicate openly in a way that inspires confidence and not repeat mistakes that other industries made in the past.”