Meeting: Composite Nanodevices in Imaging & Nano Radiation Therapy

Newswise — Principles and mechanisms of nanotechnology will be examined by Mohamed K. Khan, MD, PhD, NanoBiotechnology Center, Roswell Park Cancer Institute (RPCI) during the 48th annual meeting of the American Society for Therapeutic Radiology and Oncology (ASTRO), November 5-9 in Philadelphia, PA.

Dr. Khan will co-chair the Nanotechnology Symposium at a joint session of ASTRO and the Radiation Research Society, Tuesday, November 7, from 3:30-5:00 pm.

During his presentation, "Composite NanoDevices (CNDs) in Imaging and Nano Radiation Therapy," Dr. Khan will offer insights into CNDs, an exciting class of hybrid nanoparticulate materials and their potential medical uses in cancer imaging and therapy.

"Nanodevices, which are 10,000 times smaller than the width of human hair, are multi-functional," said Dr. Khan, "Given their flexibility of size/charge and function, nanotechnology has the potential to facilitate major progress in the early detection, diagnosis and treatment of cancer."

Dr. Khan and his colleague, Lajos Balogh, PhD, have examined the effects of simple modification of nanodevices and their interactions within complex biological systems in an attempt to understand the characteristics and principles that govern nanodevices. The researchers have demonstrated that even small changes in nanodevice surface charge, size and other properties can play a critical role.

During the symposium, Dr. Khan also will discuss research that has led to the development of an angiogenic composite nanodevice and how it might be used for novel forms of radiation therapy including nanobrachytherapy and a systemic targeted radiation therapy (STaRT) and improved tumor imaging.

Founded in 1958, ASTRO's mission is to advance the practice of radiation oncology by promoting excellence in patient care, providing opportunities for educational and professional development, promoting research and disseminating research results and representing radiation oncology in a rapidly evolving healthcare environment.

Roswell Park Cancer Institute, founded in 1898, is the nation's first cancer research, treatment and education center and is the only National Caner Institute-designated comprehensive cancer center in Upstate New York. RPCI is a member of the prestigious National Comprehensive Cancer Network, an alliance of the nation's leading cancer centers. For more information, visit the RPCI website at http://www.roswellpark.org, call 1-877-ASK-RPCI (1-877-275-7724) or email [email protected].