Heparin utilized in nanotechnology
September 16th, 2008 by Wendi Lewis
Recently, we reported about the development of synthetic heparin as a safer alternative to today’s heparin, which is manufactured from the intestines of animals. The work is a project of Robert Linhardt, a professor at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in Troy, New York. Recently, Linhardt presented information about his work on the synthetic heparin, as well as findings in a new project using heparin to create a “paper battery,” at the NanoBioTech forum.
The NanoBioTech 2008 conference was held Monday at the Institute, and addressed topics including the developments in nanotechnology law, protecting intellectual property, and attracting investors, according to an article in the Times Union.
Linhardt presented information about research that combines heparin, an anticoagulant, with cellulose to create a membrane that can be used in kidney dialysis, the report says. The work also moves scientists closer to creating a “paper battery,” which is that same membrane strengthened with carbon nanotubes that act as electrodes.
According to the Times Union story, Linhardt told the conference audience that the battery can be powered by the body’s own fluids, like blood, sweat or tears, which act as electrolytes. The battery is an energy storage device that can be implanted in the body to provide power to operate medical devices like pacemakers, defibrillators and pumps, the scientist says.