Nanoparticles guide genes through the bloodstream

Scientists from University of Bonn in Germany have designed a technique that allows them to repair damaged arteries’ tissue. The technique is based on sending genes and healthy cells through the bloodstream to the place that needs to be repaired.

Earlier, the “problem” was that it was unknown what quantity of healthy cells to send in order to repair the tissue. Small magnetic nanoparticles which are situated on the planted gene or on the planted cell can with the aid of an external magnetic field be specifically directed to the location of the damage.

German researchers have discovered that the gene-based transfer is way more successful than non-gene-based one. Magnetic nanoparticles can support or even enable gene transfer under clinically relevant experimental conditions.