We use cookies to understand how you use our site and to improve your experience. This includes personalizing content and advertising. To learn more, click here. By continuing to use our site, you accept our use of cookies. Cookie Policy.

Features Partner Sites Information LinkXpress hp
Sign In
Advertise with Us
Sekisui Diagnostics

Download Mobile App




Synthetic Nanoparticle Has HDL's Ability To Scavenge Free Cholesterol

By LabMedica International staff writers
Posted on 21 Jan 2009
The development of a synthetic nanoparticle that mimics the structure and function of HDL (high density lipoprotein) may herald the beginning of a new era of treatment for the prevention of cardiovascular disease.

Investigators at Northwestern University (Evanston, IL, USA) used a gold nanoparticle as the core upon which to build synthetic HDL. More...
They coated the core particle with two lipid layers, and then embedded apolipoprotein A-I (apo A-I) protein into the upper lipid layer. Apo A-I is the major protein component of HDL.
The result, which was described in the January 9, 2009, online edition of the Journal of the American Chemical Society (JACS), was a particle 18 nanometers in diameter with the surface composition of natural HDL and the ability to bind free cholesterol.

"HDL is a natural nanoparticle, and we have successfully mimicked it,” said senior author Dr. Chad A. Mirkin, professor of medicine at Northwestern University. "Gold is an ideal scaffolding material -- its size and shape can be tailored, and it can be easily functionalized. Using gold nanoparticles, which are non-toxic, for synthetic HDL bodes well for the development of a new therapeutic. We have designed and built a cholesterol sponge. The synthetic HDL features the basics of what a great cholesterol drug should be.”


Related Links:
Northwestern University


Platinum Member
Automated Coagulation Analyzer
Hemolumi H6
Gold Member
NEW PRODUCT : SILICONE WASHING MACHINE TRAY COVER WITH VICOLAB SILICONE NET VICOLAB®
REGISTRED 682.9
CMV CLIA Diagnostic
CLIA CMV IgA Screen Group
Immunofluorescence Analyzer
IFA System
Read the full article by registering today, it's FREE! It's Free!
Register now for FREE to LabMedica.com and get access to news and events that shape the world of Clinical Laboratory Medicine.
  • Free digital version edition of LabMedica International sent by email on regular basis
  • Free print version of LabMedica International magazine (available only outside USA and Canada).
  • Free and unlimited access to back issues of LabMedica International in digital format
  • Free LabMedica International Newsletter sent every week containing the latest news
  • Free breaking news sent via email
  • Free access to Events Calendar
  • Free access to LinkXpress new product services
  • REGISTRATION IS FREE AND EASY!
Click here to Register








Channels

Clinical Chemistry

view channel
Image Credit: 123RF

Screening After Pneumococcal Disease May Reveal Undiagnosed Blood Cancer or Immune Disorders

Severe pneumococcal disease requiring hospitalization often presents as pneumonia, particularly in older adults and people with cancer or compromised immune function. Because M protein testing and antibody... Read more

Microbiology

view channel
Image Credit: 123RF

FDA-Cleared Multiplex PCR Test Detects 13 Respiratory Pathogens in a Single Sample

Respiratory tract infections can be difficult to distinguish at presentation because many cause overlapping, nonspecific symptoms and are initially grouped as influenza-like illnesses. Causes span a range... Read more

Technology

view channel
Image: The laser-based photoacoustic spectroscopy setup consists of a Mid-IR laser equipped with three QCL modules covering wavelengths from 5.6 μm to 12.9 μm, two silver coated mirrors (SCM), a dichroic mirror (DM) with a transmittance of 90%, a thermal power sensor head (PM) to monitor the output laser power, a mechanical chopper (MC) for frequency modulation and a CEPAS-detector with a self-designed swab holder (SH). (Credit: Graunke, T., Scholz, T., Pieniak, M. et al. Scientific Reports (2026). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-026-68298-9)

Laser-Based Swab Analysis Shows Promise for Detecting Disease-Linked Odor Patterns

Disease-related changes in volatile organic compounds can alter body odor, producing measurable patterns in exhaled breath and bodily fluids. Current analytical methods can be complex, time-consuming,... Read more

Industry

view channel
Image

Collaboration Combines AI Cognitive Assessment and RNA Blood Testing for Earlier Alzheimer’s Detection

Alzheimer’s disease is often identified only after substantial neurodegeneration, partly because current diagnostic pathways are fragmented and difficult to scale. As treatment shifts toward earlier intervention,... Read more
Copyright © 2000-2026 Globetech Media. All rights reserved.