Cheryl Kraemer/ Module 7

Jain, K. (2011). The role of nanobiotechnology in the development of personalized medicine.  Medical Principles and Practice (20. 1-3.

Why was this article, blog, post, or multimedia chosen?

     I chose this article because its title contained two of this week’s topics:  nanotechnology and personalized medicine.

What makes it interesting, appropriate, or reputable?

     The article is interesting because it discusses the intertwining of nanotechnology and personalized medicine.  It discusses how personalized medicine can integrate nanotechnology into medicine to increase understanding of the pathomechanism of diseases and integration with therapeutics.  Nanobiotechnology contributes to personalized medicine with refinement of diagnostic studies and therapeutics, including the interactions among them.

Is it an opinion? Case study? Research study? Product review?

     It is an opinion. 

What was the need, problem, issue or trend addressed in the article, blog, post, or multimedia?

     The issue is the continued quest for better diagnostics and treatments with fewer side effects.  

What was the solution for which technology had an answer?

     Biomarkers which are indicators of some diseases and guide treatments have been discovered by nanobiotechnology.  Nanobiotechnology has also provided refinements in drug discovery and formulations for targeted drug delivery.  The multifunctionality of nanotechnology makes it useful in several imaging modalities. 

What implications might this have in healthcare delivery?

     The implications of nanobiotechnology in personalized medicine include the diagnosis and treatment of presymptomatic diseases.  Nanobiosensors and nanobiochips are used to improve drug discovery leading to personalization at an earlier stage.  Additionally, nanoparticles can deliver contrast medium for diagnostic purposes and drug therapies simultaneously.   Nanoimmunochemotherapy is an example of a combination nanoparticle used in treating cancer.

What did you learn from it that might have application for your practice?

     I learned that nanotechnology and personalized medicine are interrelated.  Technology has the ability to fine tune diagnostics and therapeutics to provide the biggest benefit with the least amount of harm using nanotechnology combined with personalized medicine.