1. Nanotechnology and its Application in Medicine
By: Connor Sloan

2. What is Nanotechnology?
As defined by the US Government
“Nanotechnology is science, engineering, and technology conducted at the nanoscale, which is about 1 to 100 nanometers”
Nanotechnology is used in almost all commercial goods
I.E. Composite plastics, Clothing, Cosmetics,
Sunscreen, Motorcycle helmets…

3. History of Nanotechnology
1959
Famous physicist Richard Feynman gives an after conference discussion about the possible benefits of machines capable of atomic precision
1977
At MIT Dr. Drexler begins to research the possibilities of nano-scale machines
1987
First man made protein is synthesized leading to the development of micro-scale machines
1990
IBM unveils a microscopic logo created from individual atoms
This helped fuel the race in developing further tech between private corporations

4. History Continued
1991
Japan’s MITI (Ministry of International Trade and Industry) dedicates $200 million towards nanotechnology research
Six months later carbon nanotubes are discovered
Carbon nano-tubes are the fundamental building blocks for current nano-machines
1995
US military begins research into military application
1996
NASA begins research into nano-technology
1998
First time DNA was manipulated with man made nano-machines
This was the first medical application
2008
Nano machines are successfully able to “walk” along DNA paths and manipulate structure

5. Current Applications in Medicine
Nanotechnology is currently used to deliver drugs more efficiently
Vaccines are filled with nano-particles of iron and gold to ensure sterility and to help uptake into the human blood stream
Used to coat surgical equipment
Using a “shark scale” design, this coatings prevents bacteria from sticking to medical instruments keeping them sterile

7. Future Applications In Medicine
Nanotechnology has shown promise in future treatments of various forms of cancer
Using nanotechnology cancer cells can be targeted and destroyed with extreme accuracy
At least 10+ years for human trials and public use
Active nanotechnology is currently in development
This refers to complete remote control of man made particles
Machines capable of travelling through the body with cameras, sensors, and the ability to target viruses and bacteria within the body

8. References http://www.nanotechproject.org/inventories/medicine/