This four-year Nanoscale Interdisciplinary Research Team (NIRT) project at the University of Florida with ProfessorCharles R. Martin as principal investigator, conducts a broad-based and systematic investigation of the development of smart nanotubes that are bioengineered and tailor-designed so as to accomplish specific biomedical/biochemical functions. Silica asn polymeric nanotubes will be extensively used in this research effort. Functionalized biodegradable and biocompatible poly( (lactide) nanotubes will be prepared. The objective of the research program include: (1) to show that the chemical microenvironment within biochemically-functionalized nanotubes can be fine-tuned so as promote specific desired biochemical processes; (2) to show that such nanotubes can be capped via self-assembly chemistry with nanoparticle caps; (3) to demonstrate that these nanoparticle caps can be attached via chemical bond that dissociate when a specific intercellular chemical signal is detected; (4) to show that such nanotubes can be tagged on their outer surfaces with antibodies that recognize specific cell types; and (5) to prove that all of these concepts can be used in concert to design new nanotube-based DNA transfection vechicles that deliver genetic material to specific desired cell types.

Agency
National Science Foundation (NSF)
Institute
Division of Engineering Education and Centers (EEC)
Application #
0210580
Program Officer
Lynn Preston
Project Start
Project End
Budget Start
2002-09-15
Budget End
2007-08-31
Support Year
Fiscal Year
2002
Total Cost
$1,600,000
Indirect Cost
Name
University of Florida
Department
Type
DUNS #
City
Gainesville
State
FL
Country
United States
Zip Code
32611