One of today’s hottest areas of scientific research
is nanomedicine. Scientists currently are working to create novel
nanostructures that can serve as new kinds of drugs for treating
cancer, Parkinson’s, and cardiovascular disease. They also
are seeking ways to engineer nanomaterials for use as artificial
tissues that could replace diseased kidneys and livers, and even repair
nerve damage.
In addition, although the research is still exploratory,
scientists are beginning to build nanostructures that mimic complex
biomolecules. Some of these engineered structures appear to have
regenerative powers that could potentially lead to therapies for
conditions such as Alzheimer’s, nerve injury and brain damage
from stroke.
Dr. Andrew Maynard, chief science advisor for the Wilson
Center’s Project on Emerging Nanotechnologies, and Dr. Mauro
Ferrari, chairman, Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of
Texas Health Science Center at Houston, have been invited to discuss
nanotechnology and nanomedicine before a meeting of the
President’s Council on Bioethics. At a special session on
nanotechnology to be held on Friday, June 29th, beginning at 8:30 a.m.,
they will present the exciting possibilities that these technologies
present, as well as potenial risks and ethical implications.
For a full meeting agenda, see: http://www.bioethics.gov/transcripts/june07/juneagenda.html
Meeting press contact is: Diane M. Gianelli, Director of
Communications, The President’s Council on Bioethics, (202)
296-4669.
To learn more about nanotechnology, particularly its medical
applications, log onto the report NanoFrontiers: Visions for the Future
of Nanotechnology at www.nanotechproject.org/119
- Who: Dr. Andrew D. Maynard,
Chief Science Advisor, Project on Emerging Nanotechnologies &
Dr. Mauro Ferrari, Chairman, Department of Biomedical Engineering,
University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston
- What: President’s
Council on Bioethics meeting, session on
nanotechnology
- When:
Friday, June 29, 2007, 8:30 a.m. - 11:45
a.m
- Where: Hay-Adams Hotel, 16th
& H Streets, NW, Washington, DC
The Project on Emerging Nanotechnologies was launched in 2005
by the Woodrow Wilson Center and The Pew Charitable Trusts. It is
dedicated to helping businesses, governments, and the public anticipate
and manage the possible health and environmental implications of
nanotechnology.