New research suggests that nanotechnology may offer scientists with a novel way of treating neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease.

Jining Xie and colleagues at the University of Arkansas found that they were able to trigger rat cells called PC12 cells to differentiate into neurons by using nerve growth factor-incorporated magnetic nanotubes. The researchers say that their findings suggest that magnetic nanotubes could be used to deliver nerve growth factor in order restore or repair damaged nerve cells, and thus may offer scientists with a new way of treating neurodegenerative diseases.

“Due to their structure and properties, magnetic nanotubes are among the most promising candidates of multifunctional nanomaterials for clinical diagnostic and therapeutic applications,” said Dr Xie. “We're excited about these results specifically and the overall promise of functionalized nanotubes to treat patients with these debilitating conditions.”

News release: Special Nanotubes May Be Used as a Vehicle for Treating Neurodegenerative Disorders. University of Arkansas, Fayetteville. January 13th 2009.