Nanotechnology, Medicine and Bioethics

One of today's hottest areas of scientific research is nanomedicine. Scientists currently are working to create novel nanostructures that can serve as new kinds of drugs for treating cancer, Parkinson's, and cardiovascular disease. They also are seeking ways to engineer nanomaterials for use as artificial tissues that could replace diseased kidneys and livers, and even repair nerve damage.

In addition, although the research is still exploratory, scientists are beginning to build nanostructures that mimic complex biomolecules. Some of these engineered structures appear to have regenerative powers that could potentially lead to therapies for conditions such as Alzheimer's, nerve injury and brain damage from stroke.

Dr. Andrew Maynard, chief science advisor for the Wilson Center's Project on Emerging Nanotechnologies, and Dr. Mauro Ferrari, chairman, Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, have been invited to discuss nanotechnology and nanomedicine before a meeting of the President's Council on Bioethics. At a special session on nanotechnology to be held on Friday, June 29th, beginning at 8:30 a.m., they will present the exciting possibilities that these technologies present, as well as potential risks and ethical implications.

For a full meeting agenda, see: http://www.bioethics.gov/transcripts/june07/juneagenda.html. Meeting press contact is: Diane M. Gianelli, Director of Communications, The President's Council on Bioethics, (202) 296-4669.

To learn more about nanotechnology, particularly its medical applications, log onto the report NanoFrontiers: Visions for the Future of Nanotechnology at http://www.nanotechproject.org/119.

Who:
Dr. Andrew D. Maynard, Chief Science Advisor, Project on Emerging Nanotechnologies

Dr. Mauro Ferrari, Chairman, Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston

What: President's Council on Bioethics meeting, session on nanotechnology

When: Friday, June 29, 2007, 8:30 a.m. - 11:45 a.m

Where: Hay-Adams Hotel, 16th & H Streets, NW, Washington, DC

The Project on Emerging Nanotechnologies was launched in 2005 by the Woodrow Wilson Center and The Pew Charitable Trusts. It is dedicated to helping businesses, governments, and the public anticipate and manage the possible health and environmental implications of nanotechnology.

Sharon McCarter, Director of Outreach and Communications

Phone: (202) 691-4016

E-Mail: sharon.mccarter@wilsoncenter.org