Why in the news?
Scientists from Agharkar Research Institute developed a biodegradable nanomedicine platform capable of silencing cancer driving genes in breast cancer cells, offering a promising precision oncology therapy.
Key Highlights
- Research published in: Advanced Healthcare Materials.
- Developed under: Department of Science and Technology.
- Uses: Targeted gene silencing strategy.
- Aim: Effective tumour inhibition with minimal toxicity.
What is Nanomedicine?
Nanomedicine refers to the use of nanoscale materials and technology for:
- Diagnosis
- Drug delivery
- Treatment of diseases.
What is Precision Nanomedicine?
- Precision nanomedicine: Targets disease causing cells specifically.
- Reduces:
- Damage to healthy tissues.
- Side effects associated with conventional therapies.
Key Technology Used
Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles
- Biodegradable nanoparticles with:
- High drug loading capacity.
- Tunable surface chemistry.
- Used to deliver: Small interfering RNA (siRNA).
What is siRNA?
- Small interfering RNA (siRNA): Molecules that silence specific genes by preventing protein production.
- Used in:
- Gene therapy
- Cancer treatment research.
[2015] With reference to the use of nanotechnology in health sector, which of the following statements is/are correct?
1.Targeted drug delivery is made possible by nanotechnology
2.Nanotechnology can largely contribute to gene therapy
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
[A] 1 only
[B] 2 only
[C] Both 1 and 2
[D] Neither 1 nor 2
