Quick Hits: Magnetic Nanorobots Target Cancer Cells

Drug-coated iron nanowires guided by external magnetic fields could revolutionize cancer therapy.

Tim HayesContributing Editor, Healthcare Packaging

Feb 4th, 2020

A recent KAUST Discovery article discussed a new method for targeted cancer treatment that aims to minimize side effects. The “triple-punch combination attack” involves drug-coated nanowires that are guided through the body with exterior magnets. Once they reach the site of cancer, the drugs are released to punch holes in the cell’s membrane and expel a blast of heat.

The nanowires consist of an iron core coated with an iron oxide shell. So not only are they magnetic, they are also made of a material that is native to the body and essential for oxygen transport. They can also be detected and traced with magnetic resonance imaging. The nanowires are coated with the anticancer drug doxorubicin, which is attached via pH-sensitive linkers that break down in the acidic environment of the tumor to release the drugs.

Clinical Trial Shows Digital Methods Are Future for Participant Recruitment

SpoonfulONE’s direct-to-patient digital trial design allowed the company to recruit more than 1,700 children from all 50 states to participate in its latest clinical study.

Spending Forecast for Cobots

Over 50% of CPGs to increase Cobot Spending

The suspected surge in cobot spending comes at a time when companies are just starting to grasp how to take advantage of them.

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unPACKed podcast: Ripe Opportunity for OEMs in Pharma Market

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Three OSARO robotic bagging systems will take on the responsibility of readying eyewear orders for shipment to Zenni's U.S. customers.

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2022 Annual OTC Package Design Gallery

Each year, Healthcare Packaging evaluates an array of over-the-counter product packaging designs, assessing pros and cons from a user perspective. Check out some of the highlights.

5 ways to embrace sustainability in healthcare packaging

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Identify improvement opportunities at every stage of your packaging’s lifecycle. The time to act is now!

The new Nordic Criteria were presented by Susanne Backer, senior consultant, circular economy, procurement and clinical engineering, Central Denmark region, at LyondellBasell’s Advancing Quality Healthcare Event.

New Nordic Sustainability Criteria Poised to Expand in Europe

Released in March 2022, the Common Nordic Criteria for more Sustainable Packaging in Healthcare were developed by stakeholders with the aim of reducing material waste, increasing recycling, and increasing the usage of recycled or renewable materials.

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Partnerships: One Path to Training to Ease Talent Shortages

Pick your industry. Some long-timers are realizing that the next generation of expertise their teams require isn’t being groomed as they need it.

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the[PACK]out: Inaugural Event Delivers Medical Device Packaging Innovation

The new conference in Austin, TX, (May 10-12, 2022) highlighted design, sustainability, and usability, developed for and by the medical packaging community.

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PACK gives BACK is Back at PACK EXPO International

Chicago's own legendary STYX brings over four decades of hits for a good cause.

FDA Holding Webinar on Animal Drug Manufacturing System eSubmitter Tool

The session will provide information about new enhancements to the system used to support the creation of electronic, secure submissions to the FDA’s Center for Veterinary Medicine for review.

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Cybersecurity Roundup: Med Device, Packaging Ops, and Industrial Control

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2022 OTC Package Design Gallery: Part 1

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EXPO PACK México Reunites the Industry in Person

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FDA Issues Radiation Sterilization Update for PMA Holders

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A Digital Fingerprint to Combat Counterfeit Goods

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Äkta's design uses up to seven colors, which offers flexibility on which color they lean on for which variety.

3 Examples of Cannabis Packaging in 2022

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2022 PDA/FDA Joint Regulatory Conference

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