Within a Nanometer of your Life

This article reviews advances in semiconductor manufacturing techniques that are bringing medicine closer to cures and treatments that have eluded researchers working on the macro scale. An orthopaedic implant company, Implex Corp. of Allendale, New Jersey, has developed spinal fusion devices for the cervical, thoracic, and lumbar spine using a novel biomaterial called Hedrocel Trabecular Metal. According to Implex, Hedrocel, which has a porous structure and mechanical properties like bone, can be formed or machined into complex shapes. Implex has developed hip and knee reconstruction devices made wholly or in part of Hedrocel. The spinal implants are in commercial use in Europe and are undergoing clinical trials in the United States. By studying fluid samples at the cellular level, the system can diagnose the physical and chemical status of cells to detect disease at an early stage. Nanopore fabrication technology is used to make microcapsules for implanting neurons in the brain. Once the capsules are implanted, the neurons are electrically stimulated to release neurotransmitters. Disorders where basic neurosecretory cells are missing or damaged can be treated using nanopore technology.