Your browser version may not work well with NCBI's Web applications. More information here...
1: Small. 2006 Dec;2(12):1406-11.Click here to read Links

Medical application of carbon-nanotube-filled nanocomposites: the microcatheter.

Koyama S, Haniu H, Osaka K, Koyama H, Kuroiwa N, Endo M, Kim YA, Hayashi T.

Department of Integrative Physiology and Bio-System Control, Department of Neurosurgery, School of Medicine, Shinshu University, Matsumoto 390-8621, Japan.

Carbon nanotubes hold great promise for use in biomedical fields. Among numerous potential applications, including DNA and protein sensors, bioseparators, biocatalysts, and tissue scaffolds, this article emphasizes the use of carbon-nanotube-filled polymer composites as medical devices, namely, microcatheters. The currently hot topic of the biocompatibility (e.g., toxic properties) of carbon nanotubes is discussed. In addition, critical issues that must be clarified for the full utilization of current carbon-nanotube science and technology in biomedical fields are discussed.

PMID: 17192995 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Related Articles