Development of new pulse sequences for improved magnetic resonance image contrast enhancement using magnetic nanoparticles

Mon, 02 Dec 2013 19:00:00 -0500

The National Cancer Institute has recognized nanotechnology as one of the promising technologies in the fight against cancer. Research in the field of cancer nanotechnology is highly interdisciplinary and offers new approaches in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer. One of the biggest challenges faced in cancer therapy is the lack of understanding on the successful delivery of chemotherapeutics in the cancer area. Nanoparticles can be synthesized to have the ability to encapsulate chemotherapeutic drugs which will minimize undesirable side effects. Along with this, reporters can be attached to nanoparticles that will enable monitoring of these within the body. This simultaneous delivery of drug along with the ability to monitor their delivery has had enormous benefits in the fight against cancer. This will allow for better monitoring of the effectiveness of drug delivery along with better treatment outcome for cancer patients resulting in improved survival.