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Cancer survival rates could be greatly improved if scientists are successful in developing microscopic medical weapons that obliterate cancerous cells. Nanomachines may be tiny — 50, of them would fit across the diameter of a human hair — but they have the potential to pack a mighty punch in the fight against cancer.
Researchers at Durham University in the UK have used nanobots to drill into cancer cells, killing them in just 60 seconds. They are now experimenting on micro-organisms and small fish, before moving on to rodents.
Clinical trials in humans are expected to follow and it is hoped that the results may have the potential to save millions of lives. These minute molecules have components that enable them to identify and attach themselves to a cancer cell.
This causes the nanobot to drill into the cancer cell, blasting it open. The study is still in its early stages, but researchers are optimistic it has the potential to lead to new types of cancer treatment. Dr Robert Pal, of Durham University, said: The destructive properties of the nanobots make them perfect for killing cancer cells. But the technology can also be used to repair damaged or diseased tissues at a molecular level. In the future, these nanomachines could essentially patrol the circulatory system of the human body.
They could be used to detect specific chemicals or toxins and give early warnings of organ failure or tissue rejection. The medicinal advantages of nanobots are clear to see, but industry might also benefit from the technology. Oil and gas is one example. The idea is that nanobots could be injected into geologic formations thousands of feet into the earth. Changes to the chemical make-up of the machines would point to the location of reservoirs.
There is a long way to go before this tiny technology enters the mainstream, but it has the potential to make a massive impact on the world. Callum Brodie , Formative Content. The views expressed in this article are those of the author alone and not the World Economic Forum. We are using cookies to give you the best experience on our site.
By continuing to use our site, you are agreeing to our use of cookies. Global Agenda Fourth Industrial Revolution Global Health Future of Health and Healthcare These tiny robots can kill cancer cells Scientists have used tiny molecules to drill into deadly cancer cells, blasting them open.
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