Rollingbed.com

Nanobees are one of the latest examples of how nanotechnology may change the way mankind treats disease. In one of the latest examples, nanoparticles known as Nanobees are being tested in the fight against cancer. These nanobees contain a synthesized version of a toxin called melittin that is found in bees. The toxin, which would otherwise destroy red blood cells and other healthy tissues, is being used to target and destroy cancer cells by delivering it directly to a tumor. These nanoparticles are engineered to travel directly to tumor cells without harming otherwise healthy tissue. The particles are covered with special compounds to prevent them from being attacked by white blood cells. The result is a laser guided missile of sorts that goes directly to the affected region.

So far nanobees have been tested only on mice, with promising results. Researchers anticipate that this therapy could become widely available for humans in about five years. Two treatments making use of nanoparticles have already been approved for cancer treatments. An ovarian cancer drug Doxil, approved in 1995, and breast cancer drug Abraxane, approved in 2005.