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Tuesday, 23rd June 2009 (920 views)

Gold nanoparticles have been used in research into the effect such objects could have on marine life.

Nanoparticles made from the precious metal were chosen by US scientists at the University of South Carolina's NanoCenter due to their ability to be easily traced.

The work, which was carried out in partnership with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, found that it is possible for gold nanoparticles to move from water into the marine food web.

"This landmark study points towards things to come in the near future," director of the NanoCenter Tom Voght stated, adding that the university is set to increase its "national and international R&D [research and development] footprint".

Dr Geoff Scott, director of the Center for Coastal Environmental Health and Biomolecular Research, praised the research, noting that it has provided greater understanding of how nanoparticles move through the ecosystem.

Gold nanoparticles have also been employed by scientists at Johns Hopkins University, who are carrying out a study into the treatment of type 1 diabetes.

 

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