Researchers are developing a new therapeutic approach that uses nanoparticles for the treatment of skin and lung fibrosis, conditions that can result in severe damage to the body's tissues.
Fibrosis is a condition in which the tissues in an organ -- such as the skin, lungs, liver or kidneys -- become thicker and stiffer, according to Nurunnabi. This can have multiple damaging effects, such as the lungs not being able to hold enough oxygen or blood vessels becoming narrower, leading to high blood pressure.
Nurunnabi's team focused on designing a nanoparticle that could target the cells that are responsible for fibrosis development and progression without disturbing the"good" cells necessary for the body's healthy functioning. Rather than killing the"bad" cells, the team was successful in modifying them so that they no longer produced excess collagen, in effect rehabilitating the cells. The studies were conducted in the test tube and in mice.
Lung fibrosis is a debilitating disease affecting nearly 250,000 people in the U.S. alone with 50,000 new cases reported each year. There is currently no cure and limited available treatment options, ...
Health Health Latest News, Health Health Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Source: physorg_com - 🏆 388. / 55 Read more »
Source: SciTechDaily1 - 🏆 84. / 68 Read more »