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Nanotechnology - the next big thing?
Nanotechnology, the technology of materials of microscopic size, is seen as controversial by many. This article looks at some of the benefits - and potential dangers.

Imagine a world in which kitchens clean themselves, tiny brushes clean up pollutants in water, and minute robots move through the body seeking out and destroying cancerous tissue. If all this sounds like something from a 1960s science fiction movie, you should think again, (1-C) because it is a world that may not be far off.

Scientists working in this new branch of technology see these ideas as only some of the possible applications of their research. There is even speculation that materials can be developed that will allow machines to repair themselves in much the same way that the human body does, (2-B) which would be an incredible development.

Although the idea of using microscopic robots to fight disease is still futuristic, nanotechnology is already being used by doctors. For example, magnetic nanoparticles have been given to patients suffering from certain cancers. These tiny metal balls concentrate in the body's unhealthy tissues, giving doctors a useful tool (3-F) which they can use to track the spread of the disease.

Unfortunately, as with so many new ideas, it is not all good news. People are already expressing concerns (4-G) that nanotechnology may be difficult to control. It has even been suggested that the world could rapidly be reduced to grey dust as the result of some disaster involving this new technology.

Part of the problem is the fact that nanoparticles are minute. They are so small that they are readily taken up by the body. Normally, the skin acts as a natural barrier (5-A) which prevents invasion by foreign bodies. However, nanoparticles are able to cross biological membranes and penetrate tissues and organs. Studies have already shown that nanoparticles can cause DNA mutation and the destruction of cells.

Despite the fears, there are signs that nanomaterials can actively benefit the environment and help in the fight against global warming. They can also be used to improve the efficiency of traditional materials. For example, a nanoparticle is being added to engines in buses in Britain (6-D) which will improve their fuel efficiency.

However, if we are to avoid another environmental catastrophe, then, as with most advances in technology, the message must be: 'proceed with extreme caution.