Cancer survival rates could grow exponentially if scientists succeed in developing microscopic medical weapons that destroy cancerous cells. Nanomachines may be small – 50,000 of them would fit across the width of a human hair – but they have the potential to be extremely effective in the fight against cancer.
Durham University in the United Kingdom used nanobots to drill into cancer cells, killing them in just 60 seconds. They’re starting with microorganisms and small fish before moving on to rodents. Human clinical trials are expected to follow, with the hope that the results will save millions of lives.
The mechanics of nanobots
These tiny molecules contain components that allow them to recognize and attach to cancer cells. When the nanobots’ rota-like chain of atoms is activated by light, it begins to spin at an incredible rate – around two to three million times per second. The nanobot then drills into the cancer cell, blasting it open. The research is still in its early stages, but researchers believe it has the potential to lead to new cancer treatments.
Dr. Robert Pal, of Durham University, said: “Once developed, this approach could provide a potential step change in noninvasive cancer treatment and greatly improve survival rates and patient welfare globally.”
Nanobots in our veins
The nanobots’ destructive properties make them ideal for killing cancer cells. However, the technology can also be used to molecularly repair damaged or diseased tissues.
In the future, these nanomachines could essentially patrol the human body’s circulatory system. They could detect specific chemicals or toxins and provide early warning signs of organ failure or tissue rejection. Another potential function could be to collect biometric data to monitor a person’s overall health.
Nanotechnology to the mainstream
The medical benefits of nanobots are obvious, but the technology may also benefit other industries.
One example is oil and gas. The idea is to inject nanobots into geologic formations thousands of feet underground. Changes in the chemical composition of the machines would indicate the location of reservoirs.
Meanwhile, it has been suggested that nanotechnology could be used to clean up oil spills. This tiny technology has a long way to go before it enters the mainstream, but it has the potential to have a massive impact on the world.