BSU scientists examining diagnostic qualities of nanoparticles

MINSK, 11 September (BelTA) – Scientists of the Belarusian State University are examining diagnostic qualities of nanoparticles. The information was released by Mikhail Artemyev, Doctor of Chemistry, Head of the Nanochemistry Lab of the BSU Physics and Chemistry Research Institute, on 11 September, BelTA has learned.

Mikhail Artemyev was awarded a state prize for the year 2012 achievements in science and technology. The laureate said that “If special substances are added to nanoparticles, then the particles can emit a very bright light, which color we can change. If special biological molecules are added, then they can be used as detectors. They can bind with cells of certain types and light them. Thus, we can find ill cells”.

He remarked that research in this field is in progress not only in Belarus but the entire world. “The global market of materials for the fluorescent detecting of various diseases is estimated at $6-7 billion. At present it is based on organic molecules, while we intend to grab a piece of the market using non-organic nanoparticles”. The researcher underlined they can come up with ways to diagnose diseases using nanoparticles in five years depending on the resources available.

The scientist added that today nanochemistry is one of the most promising branches of science. In addition to studying nanoparticles for diagnostic purposes the BSU is also examining the effect such particles may have on human bodies. “We are now trying to understand what damage nanoparticles may cause when inside the human body. The body may reject them or fail to notice them or the intrusion may be fatal,” said Mikhail Artemyev.

In his words, the institute has to examine the ways nanoparticles can interact with molecules. “We are studying changes of molecule qualities during interaction with particles in order to understand whether we should safeguard people against such contacts or whether such particles may result in combinations involving albumin molecules that may help affect cancer cells, for instance,” he explained.

BelTA reported earlier that on 9 September President of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko signed decree No. 401 to award state prizes of the Republic of Belarus for last year’s achievements. A state award for achievements in science and technology was bestowed in recognition of a series of researches into new inorganic compounds and materials based on micro and nanosized particles, in particular, the acquisition, quality, and applications of such compounds and materials. The researches were carried out by General Chemistry and Chemistry Teaching Methods Department Head, Doctor of Chemistry Anatoly Lesnikovich, Head of the Nanochemistry Lab of the Belarusian State University's Physics and Chemistry Research Institute, Doctor of Chemistry Mikhail Artemyev, and Prorector for Science, Academician Oleg Ivashkevich.