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Nano-Bots to Deliver Drugs

By Bill Freeman

Nano-bots are models of microscopic submarines which can travel through the bloodstream fighting disease and infection. Some researchers believe prototypes could be developed by the end of next year. A team from the Utah State University has been investigating the possibility of using bacteria as a biomotor to propel discs containing drugs to parts of the body.

Nano-bots are models of microscopic submarines which can travel through the bloodstream fighting disease and infection. Some researchers believe prototypes could be developed by the end of next year. A team from the Utah State University has been investigating the possibility of using bacteria as a biomotor to propel discs containing drugs to parts of the body. They believe E. coli and salmonella would make perfect motors for their nano-submarines, which could be used to treat tumors or unclog blocked arteries. Meanwhile, a German company, MicroTEC, are researching whether or not external magnetic fields could be used to power the tiny biomotors.

SOURCE/REFERENCE: Reported by www.bbc.co.uk on the 22nd November 2000