UTILILIZATION OF MAGNETIC NANOSPHERES FOR DETOXIFICATION OF BLOOD-BORNE BIOHAZARDS

摘要

A novel, integrated system based on magnetic nanoparticles for selective and rapid removal of biological, chemical, and radiological biohazards from humans is being developed. The nanospheres are biodegradable, non-toxic, and biostabilized allowing for direct injection to the blood stream and free circulation without rapid bioclearance. The surface functionality of the particles is tailored with molecules that offer stealth properties to opsonization and phagocytosis and with receptors that offer selective capture and sequestration of the blood-borne toxins. The magnetic component of the particles allows for toxin-bound particles to be removed from the blood, after sufficient circulation in the blood stream, thus actively removing the toxin. Successes in the development of this technology for improved treatment options for human internal decontamination are presented.