Nanotubes
Amelogenin
Microspheres
Cyanoacrylates
Polystyrenes
Antibodies, Immobilized
Drug Carriers
Gold
Polyglactin 910
Poloxalene
Metal Nanoparticles
Nanotechnology
Drug Delivery Systems
Adsorption
Rats, Hairless
Polyethylene Glycols
Ablation Techniques
Chemical Processes
Nanocapsules
Gliosarcoma
Direct observation of the reversible unwinding of a single DNA molecule caused by the intercalation of ethidium bromide. (1/123)
Ethidium bromide (EtBr) is the conventional intercalator for visualizing DNA. Previous studies suggested that EtBr lengthens and unwinds double-stranded DNA (dsDNA). However, no one has observed the unwinding of a single dsDNA molecule during intercalation. We developed a simple method to observe the twisting motions of a single dsDNA molecule under an optical microscope. A short dsDNA was attached to a glass surface of a flow chamber at one end and to a doublet bead as a rotation marker at the other end. After the addition and removal of EtBr, the bead revolved in opposite directions that corresponded to the unwinding and rewinding of a dsDNA, respectively. The amount of intercalating EtBr was estimated from the revolutions of the bead. EtBr occupied 57% of base pairs on a single dsDNA at 1 mM of EtBr, indicating that EtBr molecules could bind at contiguous sites to each other. The isotherm of intercalation showed that negative cooperativity existed between adjoining EtBr molecules. The association constant of EtBr and dsDNA (1.9 (+/-0.1) x 10(5) M(-1)) was consistent with that of previous results. Our system is useful to investigate the twisting of a single dsDNA interacting with various chemicals and biomolecules. (+info)Distinct endocytic pathways identified in tobacco pollen tubes using charged nanogold. (2/123)
In an attempt to dissect endocytosis in Nicotiana tabacum L. pollen tubes, two different probes--positively or negatively charged nanogold--were employed. The destiny of internalized plasma membrane domains, carrying negatively or positively charged residues, was followed at the ultrastructural level and revealed distinct endocytic pathways. Time-course experiments and electron microscopy showed internalization of subapical plasma-membrane domains that were mainly recycled to the secretory pathway through the Golgi apparatus and a second mainly degradative pathway involving plasma membrane retrieval at the tip. In vivo time-lapse experiments using FM4-64 combined with quantitative analysis confirmed the existence of distinct internalization regions. Ikarugamycin, an inhibitor of clathrin-dependent endocytosis, allowed us to further dissect the endocytic process: electron microscopy and time-lapse studies suggested that clathrin-dependent endocytosis occurs in the tip and subapical regions, because recycling of positively charged nanogold to the Golgi bodies and the consignment of negatively charged nanogold to vacuoles were affected. However, intact positively charged-nanogold transport to vacuoles supports the idea that an endocytic pathway that does not require clathrin is also present in pollen tubes. (+info)Visual recognition and efficient isolation of apoptotic cells with fluorescent-magnetic-biotargeting multifunctional nanospheres. (3/123)
BACKGROUND: Fluorescent-magnetic-biotargeting multifunctional nanospheres are likely to find important applications in bioanalysis, biomedicine, and clinical diagnosis. We have been developing such multifunctional nanospheres for biomedical applications. METHODS: We covalently coupled avidin onto the surfaces of fluorescent-magnetic bifunctional nanospheres to construct fluorescent-magnetic-biotargeting trifunctional nanospheres and analyzed the functionality and specificity of these trifunctional nanospheres for their ability to recognize and isolate apoptotic cells labeled with biotinylated annexin V, which recognizes phosphatidylserine exposed on the surfaces of apoptotic cells. RESULTS: The multifunctional nanospheres can be used in combination with propidium iodide staining of nuclear DNA to identify cells at different phases of the apoptotic process. Furthermore, we demonstrate that apoptotic cells induced by exposure to ultraviolet light can be isolated simply with a magnet from living cells at an efficiency of at least 80%; these cells can then be easily visualized with a fluorescence microscope. CONCLUSIONS: Our results show that fluorescent-magnetic-biotargeting trifunctional nanospheres can be a powerful tool for rapidly recognizing, magnetically enriching and sorting, and simultaneously identifying different kinds of cells. (+info)Extracellular self-assembly of virus-like particles from secreted recombinant polyoma virus major coat protein. (4/123)
Mouse polyoma virus major coat protein (VP1) expressed from a recombinant baculovirus is efficiently transported to infected cell nuclei and assembles into protein nanospheres morphologically similar to natural capsids. The nanospheres readily combine with plasmid DNA to form a hybrid gene therapy agent known as virus-like particles (VLPs). To facilitate large-scale production of VLPs free from cellular contaminants, the use of stable Drosophila cell lines expressing either wild-type protein, or VP1 tagged with a secretion signal for targeting to the extracellular medium, was investigated. Both wild-type and tagged VP1 expressed at 2-4 mg VP1/litre of culture. As expected, the wild-type protein self-assembled into VLPs. The tagged VP1 was efficiently secreted to the extracellular medium but was also glycosylated, unlike wild-type VP1. Despite this fact, a small fraction of the recombinant secreted protein assembled into VLP-like structures that had altered disulphide bonding, but were still biologically active. These results demonstrate the considerable tolerance in the nanosphere assembly to structural (i.e. aberrant glycosylation) and environmental (i.e. extracellular medium vs. nuclear milieu) changes. Thus, with modifications to improve nanosphere assembly, the secretion method could be adapted to large-scale preparation of VLPs, providing significant advantages over current methods of production of the vector. (+info)Ganglioside GM2/GM3 complex affixed on silica nanospheres strongly inhibits cell motility through CD82/cMet-mediated pathway. (5/123)
(+info)HER-2-mediated endocytosis of magnetic nanospheres and the implications in cell targeting and particle magnetization. (6/123)
(+info)Maximum strength for intermolecular adhesion of nanospheres at an optimal size. (7/123)
(+info)Studies of the cellular uptake of hydrogel nanospheres and microspheres by phagocytes, vascular endothelial cells, and smooth muscle cells. (8/123)
(+info)Nanospheres are defined in the medical context as tiny, spherical particles that have a diameter in the nanometer range (typically between 1 to 1000 nm). They can be made up of various materials such as polymers, lipids, metals or ceramics. Nanospheres have unique properties due to their small size and large surface area, making them useful for a variety of medical applications including drug delivery, diagnostic imaging, and tissue engineering.
In the field of drug delivery, nanospheres can be used to encapsulate drugs and deliver them to specific sites in the body, improving the efficacy and safety of treatments. They can also be designed to target certain cell types or release their cargo in response to specific stimuli. Additionally, nanospheres can be used as contrast agents for medical imaging techniques such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography (CT).
Overall, nanospheres are a promising tool in the development of new medical technologies and therapies.
Nanotubes, in the context of nanotechnology and materials science, refer to hollow cylindrical structures with extremely small diameters, measured in nanometers (nm). They are typically composed of carbon atoms arranged in a hexagonal lattice structure, similar to graphene. The most common types of nanotubes are single-walled nanotubes (SWNTs) and multi-walled nanotubes (MWNTs).
In the field of medicine, nanotubes have been studied for their potential applications in drug delivery, tissue engineering, and medical devices. For example, researchers have explored the use of nanotubes as drug carriers, where drugs can be loaded into the hollow interior of the tube and released in a controlled manner at the target site. Additionally, nanotubes have been used to create conductive scaffolds for tissue engineering, which may help promote nerve regeneration or muscle growth.
However, it's important to note that while nanotubes have shown promise in preclinical studies, their potential use in medical applications is still being researched and developed. There are concerns about the potential toxicity of nanotubes, as well as challenges related to their large-scale production and functionalization for specific medical applications.
Amelogenin is a protein that plays a crucial role in the formation and mineralization of enamel, which is the hard, calcified tissue that covers the outer surface of teeth. It is expressed during tooth development and is secreted by ameloblasts, the cells responsible for producing enamel.
Amelogenin makes up approximately 90% of the organic matrix of developing enamel and guides the growth and organization of hydroxyapatite crystals, which are the primary mineral component of enamel. The protein is subsequently degraded and removed as the enamel matures and becomes fully mineralized.
Mutations in the gene that encodes amelogenin (AMELX on the X chromosome) can lead to various inherited enamel defects, such as amelogenesis imperfecta, which is characterized by thin, soft, or poorly formed enamel. Additionally, because of its high expression in developing teeth and unique size and structure, amelogenin has been widely used as a marker in forensic dentistry for human identification and sex determination.
Microspheres are tiny, spherical particles that range in size from 1 to 1000 micrometers in diameter. They are made of biocompatible and biodegradable materials such as polymers, glass, or ceramics. In medical terms, microspheres have various applications, including drug delivery systems, medical imaging, and tissue engineering.
In drug delivery, microspheres can be used to encapsulate drugs and release them slowly over time, improving the efficacy of the treatment while reducing side effects. They can also be used for targeted drug delivery, where the microspheres are designed to accumulate in specific tissues or organs.
In medical imaging, microspheres can be labeled with radioactive isotopes or magnetic materials and used as contrast agents to enhance the visibility of tissues or organs during imaging procedures such as X-ray, CT, MRI, or PET scans.
In tissue engineering, microspheres can serve as a scaffold for cell growth and differentiation, promoting the regeneration of damaged tissues or organs. Overall, microspheres have great potential in various medical applications due to their unique properties and versatility.
Polyglycolic acid (PGA) is a synthetic polymer of glycolic acid, which is commonly used in surgical sutures. It is a biodegradable material that degrades in the body through hydrolysis into glycolic acid, which can be metabolized and eliminated from the body. PGA sutures are often used for approximating tissue during surgical procedures due to their strength, handling properties, and predictable rate of absorption. The degradation time of PGA sutures is typically around 60-90 days, depending on factors such as the size and location of the suture.
Cyanoacrylates are a type of fast-acting adhesive that polymerize in the presence of moisture. They are commonly used in medical settings as tissue adhesives or surgical glues to close wounds and promote healing. The most well-known cyanoacrylate is probably "super glue," which is not intended for medical use.
In a medical context, cyanoacrylates are often used as an alternative to sutures or staples to close minor cuts and wounds. They can also be used in certain surgical procedures to help stop bleeding and hold tissue together while it heals. The adhesive forms a strong bond that helps to keep the wound closed and reduce the risk of infection.
It's important to note that cyanoacrylates should only be used under the direction of a healthcare professional, as improper use can lead to skin irritation or other complications. Additionally, cyanoacrylates are not suitable for all types of wounds, so it's important to follow your doctor's instructions carefully when using these products.
I'm sorry for any confusion, but "Polystyrenes" is not a medical term. Polystyrene is a type of synthetic aromatic hydrocarbon polymer that is used in a variety of commercial and industrial products, such as packaging materials, insulation, and disposable cutlery. It's important to note that some polystyrene products may contain potentially harmful chemicals, such as styrene, which can leach out into food or drink, posing potential health risks. However, the medical community primarily deals with the health effects of exposure to these chemicals rather than defining the material itself.
"Immobilized antibodies" refer to antibodies that have been fixed or attached to a solid support or surface. This is often done for use in various diagnostic and research applications, such as immunoassays, biosensors, and affinity chromatography. The immobilization of antibodies allows them to capture and detect specific target molecules (antigens) from complex samples, while remaining stationary and easily recoverable for reuse.
There are several methods for immobilizing antibodies, including physical adsorption, covalent attachment, and non-covalent entrapment. The choice of method depends on the specific application and the desired properties of the immobilized antibodies, such as stability, orientation, and accessibility.
It is important to note that the immobilization process may affect the binding affinity and specificity of the antibodies, and therefore careful optimization and validation are necessary to ensure the performance of the assay or application.
In the context of medical and health sciences, particle size generally refers to the diameter or dimension of particles, which can be in the form of solid particles, droplets, or aerosols. These particles may include airborne pollutants, pharmaceutical drugs, or medical devices such as nanoparticles used in drug delivery systems.
Particle size is an important factor to consider in various medical applications because it can affect the behavior and interactions of particles with biological systems. For example, smaller particle sizes can lead to greater absorption and distribution throughout the body, while larger particle sizes may be filtered out by the body's natural defense mechanisms. Therefore, understanding particle size and its implications is crucial for optimizing the safety and efficacy of medical treatments and interventions.
A drug carrier, also known as a drug delivery system or vector, is a vehicle that transports a pharmaceutical compound to a specific site in the body. The main purpose of using drug carriers is to improve the efficacy and safety of drugs by enhancing their solubility, stability, bioavailability, and targeted delivery, while minimizing unwanted side effects.
Drug carriers can be made up of various materials, including natural or synthetic polymers, lipids, inorganic nanoparticles, or even cells and viruses. They can encapsulate, adsorb, or conjugate drugs through different mechanisms, such as physical entrapment, electrostatic interaction, or covalent bonding.
Some common types of drug carriers include:
1. Liposomes: spherical vesicles composed of one or more lipid bilayers that can encapsulate hydrophilic and hydrophobic drugs.
2. Polymeric nanoparticles: tiny particles made of biodegradable polymers that can protect drugs from degradation and enhance their accumulation in target tissues.
3. Dendrimers: highly branched macromolecules with a well-defined structure and size that can carry multiple drug molecules and facilitate their release.
4. Micelles: self-assembled structures formed by amphiphilic block copolymers that can solubilize hydrophobic drugs in water.
5. Inorganic nanoparticles: such as gold, silver, or iron oxide nanoparticles, that can be functionalized with drugs and targeting ligands for diagnostic and therapeutic applications.
6. Cell-based carriers: living cells, such as red blood cells, stem cells, or immune cells, that can be loaded with drugs and used to deliver them to specific sites in the body.
7. Viral vectors: modified viruses that can infect cells and introduce genetic material encoding therapeutic proteins or RNA interference molecules.
The choice of drug carrier depends on various factors, such as the physicochemical properties of the drug, the route of administration, the target site, and the desired pharmacokinetics and biodistribution. Therefore, selecting an appropriate drug carrier is crucial for achieving optimal therapeutic outcomes and minimizing side effects.
I believe there may be some confusion in your question. Gold is typically a chemical element with the symbol Au and atomic number 79. It is a dense, soft, malleable, and ductile metal. It is one of the least reactive chemical elements and is solid under standard conditions.
However, if you are referring to "Gold" in the context of medical terminology, it may refer to:
1. Gold salts: These are a group of compounds that contain gold and are used in medicine for their anti-inflammatory properties. They have been used in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, although they have largely been replaced by newer drugs with fewer side effects.
2. Gold implants: In some cases, a small amount of gold may be surgically implanted into the eye to treat conditions such as age-related macular degeneration or diabetic retinopathy. The gold helps to hold the retina in place and can improve vision in some patients.
3. Gold thread embedment: This is an alternative therapy used in traditional Chinese medicine, where gold threads are embedded into the skin or acupuncture points for therapeutic purposes. However, there is limited scientific evidence to support its effectiveness.
I hope this information helps! If you have any further questions, please let me know.
"Quillaja" is the common name for Quillaja saponaria, a species of tree that is native to Chile. The bark and extracts from the tree have been used in traditional medicine for various purposes.
In a medical context, "Quillaja" often refers to Quillaia extract or Quillaja saponins, which are derived from the bark of the tree. These extracts contain saponins, which are natural compounds with foaming properties. They have been used in medicine as an expectorant to help loosen mucus in the airways and make coughs more productive.
Quillaia extract is also used in some vaccines as an adjuvant, a substance that enhances the body's immune response to an antigen. The saponins in Quillaja stimulate the immune system and help the body mount a stronger response to the vaccine.
It's important to note that while Quillaia extract has been used in medicine for many years, more research is needed to fully understand its safety and effectiveness. As with any medication or supplement, it should only be used under the guidance of a healthcare provider.
Polyglactin 910 is a type of synthetic absorbable suture made from copolymers of lactide and glycolide. It is designed to gradually break down and be absorbed by the body over time, typically within 56 to 70 days after being used in surgical wounds. This property makes it an ideal choice for soft tissue approximation and laceration repairs.
Polyglactin 910 sutures are often used in various surgical procedures, including orthopedic, ophthalmic, cardiovascular, and general surgery. They come in different sizes and forms, such as plain, reverse cutting, and braided, to suit various surgical needs.
The gradual absorption of Polyglactin 910 sutures helps minimize scarring and reduces the need for suture removal procedures. However, it is essential to note that inflammation may occur during the degradation process, which could potentially lead to adverse reactions in some individuals. Proper wound care and follow-up with healthcare professionals are crucial to ensure optimal healing and manage any potential complications.
Poloxalene is not a medical term, but a chemical compound. It's an ether used as a non-ionic surfactant and emulsifying agent in the pharmaceutical industry. Poloxalene is also known for its ability to reduce the severity of bloat (gas distention) in animals, particularly in ruminants like cows, when included in their feed. However, it's not typically used as a human medication.
Medical definitions generally refer to terms and concepts within the medical field. The term "metal nanoparticles" is more commonly used in materials science, chemistry, and physics. However, I can provide a general scientific definition that could be relevant to medical applications:
Metal nanoparticles are tiny particles with at least one dimension ranging from 1 to 100 nanometers (nm), composed of metals or metal compounds. They have unique optical, electronic, and chemical properties due to their small size and high surface-to-volume ratio, making them useful in various fields, including medical research. In medicine, metal nanoparticles can be used in drug delivery systems, diagnostics, and therapeutic applications such as photothermal therapy and radiation therapy. Examples of metals used for nanoparticle synthesis include gold, silver, and iron.
Nanotechnology is not a medical term per se, but it is a field of study with potential applications in medicine. According to the National Nanotechnology Initiative, nanotechnology is defined as "the understanding and control of matter at the nanoscale, at dimensions between approximately 1 and 100 nanometers, where unique phenomena enable novel applications."
In the context of medicine, nanotechnology has the potential to revolutionize the way we diagnose, treat, and prevent diseases. Nanomedicine involves the use of nanoscale materials, devices, or systems for medical applications. These can include drug delivery systems that target specific cells or tissues, diagnostic tools that detect biomarkers at the molecular level, and tissue engineering strategies that promote regeneration and repair.
While nanotechnology holds great promise for medicine, it is still a relatively new field with many challenges to overcome, including issues related to safety, regulation, and scalability.
Drug delivery systems (DDS) refer to techniques or technologies that are designed to improve the administration of a pharmaceutical compound in terms of its efficiency, safety, and efficacy. A DDS can modify the drug release profile, target the drug to specific cells or tissues, protect the drug from degradation, and reduce side effects.
The goal of a DDS is to optimize the bioavailability of a drug, which is the amount of the drug that reaches the systemic circulation and is available at the site of action. This can be achieved through various approaches, such as encapsulating the drug in a nanoparticle or attaching it to a biomolecule that targets specific cells or tissues.
Some examples of DDS include:
1. Controlled release systems: These systems are designed to release the drug at a controlled rate over an extended period, reducing the frequency of dosing and improving patient compliance.
2. Targeted delivery systems: These systems use biomolecules such as antibodies or ligands to target the drug to specific cells or tissues, increasing its efficacy and reducing side effects.
3. Nanoparticle-based delivery systems: These systems use nanoparticles made of polymers, lipids, or inorganic materials to encapsulate the drug and protect it from degradation, improve its solubility, and target it to specific cells or tissues.
4. Biodegradable implants: These are small devices that can be implanted under the skin or into body cavities to deliver drugs over an extended period. They can be made of biodegradable materials that gradually break down and release the drug.
5. Inhalation delivery systems: These systems use inhalers or nebulizers to deliver drugs directly to the lungs, bypassing the digestive system and improving bioavailability.
Overall, DDS play a critical role in modern pharmaceutical research and development, enabling the creation of new drugs with improved efficacy, safety, and patient compliance.
Adsorption is a process in which atoms, ions, or molecules from a gas, liquid, or dissolved solid accumulate on the surface of a material. This occurs because the particles in the adsorbate (the substance being adsorbed) have forces that attract them to the surface of the adsorbent (the material that the adsorbate is adhering to).
In medical terms, adsorption can refer to the use of materials with adsorptive properties to remove harmful substances from the body. For example, activated charcoal is sometimes used in the treatment of poisoning because it can adsorb a variety of toxic substances and prevent them from being absorbed into the bloodstream.
It's important to note that adsorption is different from absorption, which refers to the process by which a substance is taken up and distributed throughout a material or tissue.
I'm sorry for any confusion, but "Rats, Hairless" is not a recognized medical term or condition. The term "hairless rat" typically refers to a specific breed of domesticated rats, also known as "Smooth-haired Rats" or "Naked Rats," which have a genetic mutation that results in the absence of fur. They are often kept as pets and are used in laboratory research. If you're looking for information on a specific medical condition or term, please provide it, and I would be happy to help.
Polyethylene glycols (PEGs) are a family of synthetic, water-soluble polymers with a wide range of molecular weights. They are commonly used in the medical field as excipients in pharmaceutical formulations due to their ability to improve drug solubility, stability, and bioavailability. PEGs can also be used as laxatives to treat constipation or as bowel cleansing agents prior to colonoscopy examinations. Additionally, some PEG-conjugated drugs have been developed for use in targeted cancer therapies.
In a medical context, PEGs are often referred to by their average molecular weight, such as PEG 300, PEG 400, PEG 1500, and so on. Higher molecular weight PEGs tend to be more viscous and have longer-lasting effects in the body.
It's worth noting that while PEGs are generally considered safe for use in medical applications, some people may experience allergic reactions or hypersensitivity to these compounds. Prolonged exposure to high molecular weight PEGs has also been linked to potential adverse effects, such as decreased fertility and developmental toxicity in animal studies. However, more research is needed to fully understand the long-term safety of PEGs in humans.
Ablation techniques are medical procedures that involve the removal or destruction of body tissue or cells. This can be done through various methods, including:
1. Radiofrequency ablation (RFA): This technique uses heat generated by radio waves to destroy targeted tissue. A thin probe is inserted into the body, and the tip of the probe emits high-frequency electrical currents that heat up and destroy the surrounding tissue.
2. Cryoablation: Also known as cryosurgery, this technique uses extreme cold to destroy abnormal tissue. A probe is inserted into the body, and a gas is passed through it to create a ball of ice that freezes and destroys the targeted tissue.
3. Microwave ablation: This technique uses microwaves to heat up and destroy targeted tissue. A probe is inserted into the body, and microwaves are emitted from the tip of the probe to heat up and destroy the surrounding tissue.
4. Laser ablation: This technique uses laser energy to vaporize and destroy targeted tissue. A laser fiber is inserted into the body, and the laser energy is directed at the targeted tissue to destroy it.
5. High-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU): This technique uses high-frequency sound waves to heat up and destroy targeted tissue. The sound waves are focused on a specific area of the body, and the heat generated by the sound waves destroys the targeted tissue.
Ablation techniques are used in various medical fields, including cardiology, oncology, and neurology, to treat a range of conditions such as arrhythmias, cancer, and chronic pain.
Chemical processes refer to the various interactions and transformations that occur at the molecular or atomic level among chemicals, substances, or compounds. These processes involve changes in the structure, composition, energy state, or properties of the involved materials. They can be either spontaneous or induced and are governed by the laws of chemistry.
Some common examples of chemical processes include:
1. Chemical reactions: The transformation of one or more substances into different substances through a series of chemical interactions. These reactions might involve the breaking and forming of chemical bonds, resulting in new compounds with distinct properties.
2. Oxidation-reduction (redox) reactions: A specific type of chemical reaction where electrons are transferred between molecules or atoms, leading to changes in their oxidation states. These reactions often involve the transfer of oxygen or hydrogen atoms and play a crucial role in various biological and industrial processes.
3. Acid-base reactions: Chemical interactions between acids and bases, characterized by the transfer of a proton (H+) from an acid to a base. These reactions result in the formation of new compounds called salts and water.
4. Precipitation reactions: The formation of an insoluble solid (a precipitate) when two solutions are mixed together, often due to the creation of a new compound that cannot remain dissolved in the solvent.
5. Complexation: The formation of a complex between a central atom or ion and one or more ligands through coordinate covalent bonds. This process can lead to changes in the physical and chemical properties of both the central atom/ion and the ligand(s).
6. Electrolysis: A chemical process driven by an external electrical current, which induces chemical reactions at the electrodes immersed in a conducting solution (electrolyte). This process is used to produce various chemicals, such as hydrogen, chlorine, and sodium hydroxide.
7. Catalysis: The acceleration of a chemical reaction by a substance called a catalyst, which remains unchanged at the end of the reaction. Catalysts work by lowering the activation energy required for the reaction to occur, thereby increasing the rate of the process without being consumed in it.
Understanding chemical processes is essential for various fields, including chemistry, biology, medicine, materials science, and engineering, as they form the basis for numerous natural phenomena and technological applications.
A nanocapsule is a type of nanoparticle that is characterized by its hollow, spherical structure. It is composed of a polymeric membrane that encapsulates an inner core or "cargo" which can be made up of various substances such as drugs, proteins, or imaging agents. The small size of nanocapsules (typically ranging from 10 to 1000 nanometers in diameter) allows them to penetrate cells and tissue more efficiently than larger particles, making them useful for targeted drug delivery and diagnostic applications.
The polymeric membrane can be designed to be biodegradable or non-biodegradable, depending on the desired application. Additionally, the surface of nanocapsules can be functionalized with various moieties such as antibodies, peptides, or small molecules to enhance their targeting capabilities and improve their stability in biological environments.
Overall, nanocapsules have great potential for use in a variety of medical applications, including cancer therapy, gene delivery, and vaccine development.
Gliosarcoma is a rare and aggressive type of brain tumor that arises from glial cells, which are the supportive cells in the brain. It is a subtype of glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), which is the most common and malignant primary brain tumor in adults.
Gliosarcoma is characterized by the presence of both glial and sarcomatous components, with the latter resembling mesenchymal tissue such as bone, cartilage, or muscle. The tumor typically grows rapidly and can invade surrounding brain tissue, making it difficult to completely remove with surgery.
The exact cause of gliosarcoma is not known, but risk factors may include exposure to ionizing radiation, certain genetic conditions, and a history of other types of brain tumors. Symptoms can vary depending on the location and size of the tumor, but may include headaches, seizures, weakness, numbness, or changes in vision, speech, or behavior.
Treatment for gliosarcoma typically involves surgery to remove as much of the tumor as possible, followed by radiation therapy and chemotherapy. However, despite aggressive treatment, the prognosis for patients with gliosarcoma is generally poor, with a median survival time of less than one year.