June 29, 2022

At the University of Texas at Arlington, a bioengineer is working with a team to develop a biodegradable nanomaterial that uses nanotechnology to fight cancer, cardiovascular disease, lung disease, blood diseases, neurodegenerative diseases, diabetes, inflammatory or infectious diseases, and orthopedics. Plant-based nanoparticles could eventually replace some antibiotics, using nanotechnology to destroy bacteria and fungi. The material's imaging capabilities could provide physicians with more detailed information, which could lead to more targeted drugs for patients against peripheral arterial disease (PAD), making them more effective.

PAD, also known as atherosclerosis or arteriosclerosis, is a common disease in the elderly. More than 200 million people are affected globally, and a significant increase in illness and mortality is associated with it. The research will enable non-invasive monitoring of the condition through imaging and make it more effective in treating the disease. Nguyen The stated aim is to reduce PAD complications and improve the quality of life of its patients. The project is understood to last four years and cost $2.1 million.

Nguyen is a Fellow of the Society for Biomedical Engineering, a Fellow of the UTA College of Distinguished Scholars, a Senior Member of the National Academy of Inventors, and a Fellow of the American Institute of Medicine and Bioengineering, and a Fellow of the American Heart Association.

Edit: kiki Jia

Source of graphic materials: https://www.uta.edu/news/news-releases/2022/06/24/nguyen-nih-biodegradable-nanomaterials