Medical application of carbon-nanotube-filled nanocomposites: the microcatheter.
Carbon nanotubes hold great promise for use in biomedical fields. Among numerous potential applications, including DNA and protein sensors, bioseparators, biocatalysts, and tissue scaffolds, this article emphasizes the use of carbon-nanotube-filled polymer composites as medical devices, namely, microcatheters. The currently hot topic of the biocompatibility (e.g., toxic properties) of carbon nanotubes is discussed. In addition, critical issues that must be clarified for the full utilization of current carbon-nanotube science and technology in biomedical fields are discussed.
Koyama
Shozo
S
Department of Integrative Physiology and Bio-System Control, Department of Neurosurgery, School of Medicine, Shinshu University, Matsumoto 390-8621, Japan.
Haniu
Hisao
H
Osaka
Kazuaki
K
Koyama
Haruhide
H
Kuroiwa
Naomi
N
Endo
Morinobu
M
Kim
Yoong Ahm
YA
Hayashi
Takuya
T
D000818:Animals; D001672:Biocompatible Materials; D001777:Blood Coagulation / Q000502:physiology; D015496:CD4-Positive T-Lymphocytes / Q000166:cytology; D018414:CD8-Positive T-Lymphocytes / Q000166:cytology; D002404:Catheterization / Q000295:instrumentation*; D002408:Catheters, Indwelling; D002452:Cell Count; D004285:Dogs; D053761:Nanocomposites / Q000737:chemistry*; D037742:Nanotubes, Carbon / Q000648:ultrastructure; D012867:Skin / Q000166:cytology
D001672:Biocompatible Materials; D037742:Nanotubes, Carbon