A program comprising several collaborative research efforts has been dedicated to advancing the art of utilization of magnetic nanoparticles for biomedical purposes. The research has been performed by three teams, each focusing on different aspects of the art:

This Transmission Electron Micrograph shows a magnetite/titanium oxide/gold nanoparticle typical of the magnetic nanocomposites investigated in this research program.

  • A team at the Advanced Materials Research Institute (AMRI) of the College of Sciences of the University of New Orleans has addressed the synthesis and characterization of magnetic nanoparticles and associated materials. The work of this team has been divided into several main tasks. One task is to develop methodology for the synthesis of magnetic nanocomposite particles, including magnetite/titanium oxide/gold (see figure) and magnetite/polystyrene/semiconductor nanoparticles. Another task is to provide for functionalization of magnetic nanocomposite particles to make them suitable for bioconjugation of antibodies or other active biomolecules. Still another task is to improve the utilization of magnetic nanocomposite particles as means of delivering drugs.
  • A team at the Center for Advanced Microstructures and Devices (CAMD) of Louisiana State University has addressed the design and fabrication of devices for handling and detecting biological samples labelled with magnetic nanoparticles. These devices include sensors that utilize giant magnetoresistance (GMR) for detection of biomolecules through detection of magnetic nanoparticles attached to those molecules. This work has been divided into several major tasks, including fabrication of silicon-based GMR sensors and integration of them into microfluidic platforms, functionalization of surfaces of GMR sensors with thin layers of biomolecules that afford selective binding of target molecules, and synthesis and characterization of biofunctionalized magnetic nanoparticles.
  • A team at the Louisiana State University Neuroscience Center of Excellence has addressed the utilization of magnetic nanoparticles in the treatment of mild brain injuries. This team has made use of the magnetic-nanoparticle technology developed by the AMRI and CAMD teams and has developed molecular recognition processes and identified bioreceptor-recognition elements needed for the further development of nanobiotechnological approaches to (a) reducing the short-term consequences of mild traumatic head injury, (b) preventing or slowing laser-induced retinal injury, and (c) alleviating pain in military personnel.

This work was done by Charles J. O'Connor of the University of New Orleans, and Josef Hormes and Nicolas Bazan of Louisiana State University for the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency. For more information, download the Technical Support Package (free white paper) at www.medicaldesignbriefs.com/briefs. DARPA-0008

Topics:
Coating/Surface Modification Coatings & Adhesives Defense industry Materials Medical Nanotechnology Sensors
This Brief includes a Technical Support Package (TSP).
Document cover
Magnetic Nanoparticles and Devices for Biomedical Uses

(reference DARPA-0008) is currently available for download from the TSP library.

Don't have an account?

More From SAE Media Group

    Magazine cover
    Medical Design Briefs Magazine

    This article first appeared in the March, 2010 issue of Medical Design Briefs Magazine (Vol. 34 No. 3).

    Read more articles from this issue here.

    Read more articles from the archives here.

    Overview

    The document titled "Development of Magnetic Nanomaterials and Devices for Biological Applications" presents a comprehensive overview of research funded by DARPA, focusing on the innovative use of magnetic nanoparticles in various biomedical applications. The report highlights the unique properties of these nanoparticles, which can be engineered for specific functionalities, making them valuable tools in medicine and biological research.

    Key findings include the ability to fine-tune the magnetic properties of nanoparticles by adjusting their dimensions and the architecture of their core-shell structures. This customization allows for enhanced performance in applications such as drug delivery, where nanoparticles can be designed to target specific cells or tissues, thereby improving therapeutic efficacy and reducing side effects.

    The report also discusses the integration of magnetic nanoparticles in biosensors, particularly Giant Magnetoresistance (GMR) bio-sensors. These sensors leverage the magnetic properties of nanoparticles to detect biological molecules with high sensitivity, which is crucial for early disease diagnosis and monitoring.

    Furthermore, the document outlines the collaborative efforts in training the next generation of scientists through hands-on research and mentorship programs. It emphasizes the importance of engaging students from diverse backgrounds, particularly through outreach initiatives, to foster interest in the sciences and encourage participation in cutting-edge research.

    Challenges associated with the use of magnetic nanoparticles are also addressed, including issues related to stability, aggregation, and the need for effective surface functionalization to enhance biocompatibility and targeting capabilities. The report suggests that overcoming these challenges is essential for the successful translation of magnetic nanoparticle technologies from the laboratory to clinical applications.

    In conclusion, the document underscores the potential of magnetic nanomaterials to revolutionize biomedical applications, particularly in drug delivery and diagnostic technologies. It calls for continued research and development to address existing challenges and to fully realize the benefits of these advanced materials in improving healthcare outcomes. The findings and insights presented in this report contribute significantly to the field of nanomedicine and highlight the ongoing efforts to harness the power of nanotechnology for biological applications.