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Magnet-assisted nanotechnology ‘can aid treatment of blood clots’
US scientists have developed a new technique to enhance stroke treatment using magnet-assisted nanomotors.
Researchers at the University of Georgia and their collaborators have found that when magnetic nanorods are injected into the bloodstream and activated with rotating magnets, they can act like stirring bars to rapidly transport a clot-busting drug to the site of blood clots.
The scientists tested their approach in mice that mimic blood clots in humans. Once a clot was formed, they injected a mixture of the drug t-PA and a small number of magnetic nanorods, which were then activated by two revolving magnets.
In future studies, nanorods made of new materials that are more compatible with the human body will be tested. The scientists stressed that the current results are preliminary, meaning more research must be done to perfect the technique.
Study co-author Yiping Zhao, professor of physics in UGA's Franklin College of Arts and Sciences, said: "With further development, we think this could be an important step to better treatment of clots in small blood vessels. Our team is already working on new approaches to take this proven concept further."
In England, strokes are the third largest cause of death, with more than 150,000 people having a stroke each year.
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