NanoBio-First Website

Research implementation status

For sub-theme I, we searched candidates of the target microRNAs (miRNAs) for diagnosis and developed diagnostic devices. In previous work, we advanced the cohort study of miRNAs that enable differentiation between prostate cancer and enlarged prostate, and identified diagnostic blood marker candidates for breast cancer. In the latter, we accomplished important achievements, especially in the development of a high-sensitive hybridization detection technique using microarrays, accuracy enhancement of electrometric detection using metallic compound electrodes, and the development of new microvalves.

For sub-theme II, we developed a nano device containing contrast agents for MRI for the accurate diagnosis of cancers, and demonstrated in vivo efficacy. We revealed that the anticancer agent-containing nano device can accumulate in lymph nodes to inhibit metastasis. We also succeeded in significantly increasing the accumulation efficiency of the nano device containing anticancer agents and small interfering RNAs in solid cancers by adding peptide ligands to the device. Furthermore, we demonstrated that hollow-form nano devices can deliver enzymes selectively to solid tumors, suggesting the possibility of tumor imaging through enzyme reactions.

For sub-theme III, we developed a nano device that can be combined with low-molecular photosensitizers, and demonstrated the physicochemical properties of the device and the in vitro efficacy of photodynamic therapy (PTD). We optimized medical devices used for endoscopic PDT for treating cancers in hollow organs and sonodynamic therapy (SDT) for treating deep tumors, as well as light and ultrasound irradiation conditions.

For sub-theme IV, we accelerated the selection of physiologically active substance candidates for tissue regeneration, and at the same time discussed the optimum conditions for installation of physiologically active substance-containing nano devices on implant devices. We also established a sterilization method without losing implant device activity, which enhances the operability of the device when it is implanted. For some implant devices, we succeeded in verifying the efficacy by animal experiments.

In conclusion, we made progress in the projects in near-accordance with the original plan during this fiscal year.