Nanocapsules used for drug delivery

PITTSBURGH, Aug. 18 (UPI) -- University of Pittsburgh scientists say they have created nanoscale devices for drug or imaging agent delivery and to enhance oxygen sensors.

In a report published online in the journal Advanced Materials, a team led by chemistry Professors Alexander Star and Stephane Petoud describe the creation of nanosized capsules that are universally compatible with a range of substances, particularly related to medicine and energy. When applied to medicine, the tiny vessels can potentially carry a sizable "cargo" of anti-cancer drugs or medical imaging agents.

That study included graduate students Brett Allen, Chad Shade and Adrienne Yingling.

In a separate paper appearing online in Nature Chemistry another team headed by Star and Petoud developed a highly sensitive, fluorescent oxygen sensor that can detect minute amounts of the gas. The researchers said such oxygen detectors are important safety devices in mines, aircraft, submarines and other confined spaces.

In both studies the scientists said they used carbon nanomaterials to create enhanced versions of existing technologies.

"For decades, researchers have been searching for an optimal vessel for storing and transporting a variety of cargo to specified locations," Star said. "Our devices have the potential to be universal delivery vehicles for a range of materials. Our next steps will focus on controlling how and when the nanocapsules open by using different stimuli such as pH, light, and chemical agents."