Cancer cells executed by magnet

Cancer Cells Executed by Magnet

by Rachel  Ehrenberg        

Summary: Scientists have found that by using metal nano-particles, carried by proteins to a cancer cell, they can  have the cell kill itself, by attaching the nano-particle to Death Receptor 4. This is done by exposing the cells to a magnetic field,which causes the nano particles to clump together forming a shape that fits the protein receptor. The particles are then moved with proteins and attached to the receptor. After receiving the artificial message, the cell begins to self destruct. However, scientists are still working on how to make sure that the nano particles only target cancer cells, as normal cells have the receptor as well.

Relevance: This article relates to the biology unit, because it mentions the receptor proteins we just recently learned about. It talks about how the protein receives messages and how the nano particles form an artificial message.

http://www.sciencenews.org/view/generic/id/345663/description/Cancer_cells_executed_by_magnet

Oct. 20, 2012