Multifunctional Nanostructures for Theranostics

Student: Francisco Reynoso
Department: Physics
Advisor: Sri Sridhar

Abstract

The role nanotechnology plays in medicine is increasingly important due in large part to the numerous medical uses of nanostructures in both diagnostic and therapeutic capacities. The small size, relatively large surface area, and in-vivo kinetics of nanoparticles makes them uniquely suited for biomedical applications. Different forms of nanoparticles are currently being employed as diagnostic and therapeutic tools independently, mainly due to their size specific pharmacokinetic and magnetic properties. Diagnostic capacities are widely used in the form of imaging contrast agents that increase sensitivity and/or specificity of MR images. The therapeutic capabilities of nanoparticles are also used in a clinical capacity as various forms of drug carriers, particularly liposomal forms of cancer drugs. These nanoparticle-based systems can be combined to form novel image-guided drug delivery techniques that aim towards targeted diagnosis and treatment of disease. Treatments that can provide diagnostic and therapeutic benefits are now referred to as theranostic agents. The ability of such systems to both treat and diagnose diseases is an emerging concept that allows for increased functionality and effectiveness of current treatments. The purpose of my proposed research is to study nanostructures in which the concept of theranostics is explored.