Mitochondria-Targeted Nanoparticles for Atherosclerosis and Cancer: A Update of Research presented by Dr Shanta Dhar during Targeting Mitochondria 2013

Dr Shanta Dhar, from University of Georgia, USA was awarded in 2012 by the Scientific Committee of Targeting Mitochondria.

She will update her researches about Mitochondria-Targeted Nanoparticules for Atherosclerosis and Cancer during the 4th Edition of Targeting Mitochondria World Congress 2013.

 For Dr Dhar: "Atherosclerosis is the leading cause of death worldwide. We constructed a biodegradable nanoparticle that mimics high-density lipoprotein and carries quantum dots to detect vulnerable plaques at risk of detaching from the artery wall. These targeted nanoparticles detect apoptotic macrophages by sensing the collapse of mitochondrial membrane potential that occurs as the cell dies. Construction and optimization of such a synthetic good cholesterol mimicking nanoparticles, in vitro and in vivo studies demonstrating detection of apoptosis, cholesterol binding, biocompatibility and stability, and reduction of triglyceride levels will be discussed. On the cancer front, we will discuss the potential of using mitochondria targeted photosensitization of cancer cells to activate the immune system for possible application in the development of a cancer vaccine".

To know more about Targeting Mitochondria 2013: www.targeting-mitochondria.com