Koyama Shozo, Haniu Hisao, Osaka Kazuaki, Koyama Haruhide, Kuroiwa Naomi, Endo Morinobu, Kim Yoong Ahm, Hayashi Takuya
Department of Integrative Physiology and Bio-System Control, Department of Neurosurgery, School of Medicine, Shinshu University, Matsumoto 390-8621, Japan.
Small. 2006 Dec;2(12):1406-11. doi: 10.1002/smll.200500416.
Carbon nanotubes hold great promise for use in biomedical fields. Among numerous potential applications, including DNA and protein sensors, bioseparators, biocatalysts, and tissue scaffolds, this article emphasizes the use of carbon-nanotube-filled polymer composites as medical devices, namely, microcatheters. The currently hot topic of the biocompatibility (e.g., toxic properties) of carbon nanotubes is discussed. In addition, critical issues that must be clarified for the full utilization of current carbon-nanotube science and technology in biomedical fields are discussed.
碳纳米管在生物医学领域具有广阔的应用前景。在众多潜在应用中，包括DNA和蛋白质传感器、生物分离器、生物催化剂以及组织支架等，本文重点介绍了填充碳纳米管的聚合物复合材料作为医疗设备，即微导管的应用。文中讨论了当前碳纳米管生物相容性（如毒性特性）这一热门话题。此外，还讨论了在生物医学领域充分利用当前碳纳米管科学技术必须阐明的关键问题。
