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INV-18120
Background
Traditional physicochemical approaches for the synthesis of compounds, drugs, and nanostructures are developed either as potential solutions for antimicrobial resistance or to fight against cancer. Nevertheless, these approaches have several limitations, such as the use of toxic chemicals and the production of toxic by‑products with limited biocompatibility. New methods are needed to overcome this limitation.
Technology Overview
In this invention, Northeastern researchers used a green chemistry approach for the generation of metallic nanoparticles or nanometric structures that can effectively address healthcare concerns. Here, Tellurium (Te) nanowires were synthesized using a green chemistry approach, and their structures and cytocompatibility were then evaluated. An easy and straightforward hydrothermal method was employed, and the Te nanowires were characterized using Transmission Electron Microscope (TEM), Scanning‑Electron Microscopy (SEM) for shape, morphology, size, and chemistry. Cytotoxicity tests were completed with human dermal fibroblasts (HDF) and human melanoma cells. Results showed that the treatment with Te nanowires at concentrations between 5 and 100 μg/mL improved the proliferation of healthy cells and decreased cancerous cell growth over a five‑day period when the Green chemistry method was compared to the traditional chemical method.
Benefits
- This approach is safe
- Low cost
- No additional agent is needed
- Economical, easy and follows a straightforward hydrothermal synthesis method
Applications
- Cell growth
- Cancer treatment
- Antimicrobial development
- Drug delivery
Opportunity
- License
- Partnering
- Research collaboration
