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In 2003, nanoscience research was supported by three NCI programs managed by the Office of Technology and Industrial Relations: the Innovative Molecular Analysis Technologies program, the Fundamental Technologies for Biomolecular Sensors program, and the Unconventional Innovations program. These programs are producing notable achievements, including the development of targeted nanoparticles that enhance tumor imaging and the creation of molecular probes to predict the efficacy of treatments.
NCI-supported investigators are also creating nanotechnology platforms that could diagnose and treat cancer simultaneously. Scientists are currently evaluating these technologies in animals to determine if they are suitable for human clinical trials. Ultimately, this research aims to create targeted, multifunctional nanoparticles that circulate through the body, detect cancer-related molecular changes, release appropriate treatment compounds, and monitor a treatment's effectiveness.
Scientists predict that nanotechnology-based methods for cancer diagnosis and treatment could be available for clinical use within the next decade. In order to accelerate the application of nanotechnology tools to cancer biology, NCI is developing a Nanotechnology Plan under the leadership of Mauro Ferrari, Ph.D., Professor of Biomedical Engineering and Internal Medicine at Ohio State University. Dr. Ferrari, who is an expert in the field of biomedical nanotechnology, commenting on nanoscience's predicted impact said, "Great progress is already being made. Nanotechnology is expected to revolutionize the ways in which we diagnose and treat cancer."
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